Anger over substation nod despite objections

Renfrewshire councillors have been lambasted for approving a controversial planning application without discussion - despite 120 objections against it.

- EDEL KENEALY

Elected representatives said “absolutely nothing” when the application for a four-metre high electricity substation was called at the planning board last week.

Simply giving the application the nod, the planning permission means the substation will be built 60 metres from homes in Dargavel and on greenbelt land - contrary to the local development plan.

The substation, associated apparatus, fencing, de-mountable floodlights and access track will now be built on Glenluce Drive, yards from residential homes on Abbington Circle.

Philip Harvey, whose home will overlook the substation, told the Express that residents had not been permitted to take part in the site visit or been allowed to address the planning board directly.