Council officials have given the go-ahead for alteration works at Knockderry Castle, which was sold for £1.25m last year.
David Leavitt’s plans for the A-listed castle in Cove included replacement windows and doors as well as a replacement external staircase.
The castle was designed by Alexander ‘Greek’ Thomson in the 1850s, with B
baronial additions by William Leiper in 1897.
It was at the centre of a notorious legal wrangle which lasted for decades and saw Marian van Overwaele and her brother George Amil evicted in 2022.
In February last year it was bought by David Leavitt, the US prosecutor behind efforts to extradite US fugitive Nicholas Rossi, who with his wife Chelom has pledged to restore it.
It was bought by Mr Leavitt and his wife Chelom in February 2023.
One objection was received from the public, expressing concerns that important features and artwork within the castle could be damaged or removed, and that the character of the listed building would be damaged.
However, an Argyll and Bute Council planning official said the application for planning permission referred only to external alterations.
The official said: “These works also include the removal of a section of wall and two windows set back behind the existing stone arches.
“It is noted that during the determination process this element of the works has been amended due to concerns that Historic Environment Scotland raised in terms of the proposed screening being in-between the existing stone arches.
“To address this the applicants have revised the drawings to show the screening set back behind the existing stone arches. The proposed screening will be floor to ceiling slim line metal framed glazing in a dark colour with section to form double doors.”
The official added: “It should be noted that the planning officer and built heritage conservation officer undertook a detailed site inspection both internally and externally.
“It was understood from this inspection that the property overall is in a state of disrepair and has suffered from a lack of upkeep and maintenance historically.
“Some areas of the property are in a serious state of dilapidation. It was concluded that significant repair and refurbishment are required urgently to protect this important property for future generations.
“The proposals are considered to be in keeping with the character of the existing listed property and surrounding conservation area. They are considered to be an enhancement to the existing property and utilise high quality materials and design.”
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