A former boatyard in Kilcreggan could be developed as housing for the elderly – potentially with public parking as well – it was revealed this week.
The idea was broadly welcomed at a meeting on Tuesday night – but there were questions about whether the community should have more of a say.
There has been speculation that flats could be built on the former McGrouthers boatyard near the village medical centre.
But Cllr Mark Irvine told Cove and Kilcreggan Community Council on Tuesday night that this had been ruled out by planners.
Instead, he said that the area’s Health & Social Partnership, Argyll & Bute Council and Argyll Community Housing Association could be involved together with the developers, Portkil Seaview Estates Ltd.
“There is an ongoing discussion to see whether that site can be developed as residential care for the elderly, but independent living units – ideally for people who want to stay living independently as long as possible,” he said.
“The discussion are at a very early stage.
“The developer is very keen to also assist going forward to discuss how much of that land can be made available for car parking.”
Chairman Nick Davies said the community would welcome that development.
But community councillor Euan Wright said it wouldn’t be clear what local people wanted on that site until the results of the Our Community project were known.
“It seems to me that it’s being steered a little bit already without the community being consulted,” he said.
“I’m really pleased we’re at this stage and on the one hand let’s take what we can get, however I think there should be a certain level of ambition around that conversation from the community
“And secondly it is a crucial, crucial site and I would love the community to have a say in what goes on that site.
“It will have long-lasting effects to the success of the village and for us to be really clear as a community what we would like.
“It will be an extension of the centre of the village.”
Cllr Irvine pointed out that the site had been bought by a private developer to make money and the community would have to work with them.
Mr Davies said that SKS, the consultancy which is working on the Our Community project, could talk to the developers.
“Notwithstanding any reservations we might have, if we can get the developer to talk to us and get something that is roughly in accord with the consultation we have won,” he said.
Registers of Scotland documents show that the site was bought in 2020 by John Frank Phipps and Jeanette Phipps for £225,000.
Mr Phipps is also the owner of the site outside Rosneath which is being marketed as King’s Marina.
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