A couple who were instructed to demolish a £650,000 mansion they constructed without obtaining the necessary planning permissions have now submitted an application to transform the property into two separate residences. David and Dawn Allan erected the expansive villa in their hometown of Gorebridge, Midlothian, but became entangled in a dispute after violating local planning regulations.
Background of the Dispute
The Allans first sought permission for the development in 2018, following the demolition of an existing structure on the site. The pair, who operate a successful coach company, submitted plans and commenced construction work. However, they were taken aback when their application for retrospective planning permission was refused. Officials deemed that a 'hipped' roof above the garages was 'detrimental' to the character of the local area and required its removal.
Enforcement and Appeals
The Allans appealed for additional time to address the issues with the property, insisting that a building warrant issued had given them the go-ahead. Nevertheless, they were subsequently served with an enforcement notice demanding that they make the necessary changes or demolish the property by the summer of 2023. They missed deadlines to challenge this decision.
Now, the couple has lodged fresh plans to convert the mansion into two homes. Each of the proposed properties would feature four double bedrooms, an integrated garage, and open-plan living areas boasting 'expansive views'.
Planning Statement
A planning statement submitted on their behalf argues: 'With the proposal now for two semi-detached properties on the site, the proposal represents an improvement on both the previous and the consented single dwellings, with the plot width and area more in line with the neighbouring dwellings rather than a single dwelling on a generous site and still more generous than the new build plots to the east.'
The couple previously indicated that they faced costs exceeding £100,000 to alter the plans and had already spent £16,000 in fees during their ill-fated development battle. Midlothian Council will issue a decision on the new application in due course.
