COUNCILLORS have approved plans for 49 affordable homes to be built on part of the former Hermitage Academy site in Helensburgh.

Members of Argyll and Bute Council’s Planning, Protective Services and Licensing Committee met in the town’s Victoria Halls on Monday 27 August to consider the application submitted by Dunbritton Housing Association.

The residential development will include 12 two-storey semi-detached houses, one wheelchair-accessible bungalow and 36 flats in three-story blocks.

Committee members voted to approve the application in line with planning officers’ recommendations.

Speaking after the meeting, Lead Councillor for Helensburgh and Lomond James Robb said: “This planning consent is welcomed as it will allow the first phase of the agreed master plan for the former Hermitage Academy site to proceed. This will provide 49 much-needed affordable homes and is funded by Dunbritton Housing Association and a £2m grant from the Scottish Government, with additional financial support from Argyll and Bute Council. In total this is a £4.6m investment into our local economy, creating and supporting local jobs and apprenticeships.”

Councillor Robb concluded: “The next task is to deliver the rest of the master plan to the same high standards, while ensuring a good return for the tax payer in the current economic recession.”