A planning application has been lodged to build a private equestrian centre at Knock House Estate in Largs.
The project, carried out by Stewart Associates of Largs, proposes a 'sympathetic' approach to developing the existing estate policies for the private use of the applicant’s family.
Largs Community Council have no objections to the development which includes the refurbishing the Gate Lodge, re-modelling and extending Knock House, an indoor swimming pool, and a garage/workshop area. The development will also cater for estate vehicles and provide stabling and riding facilities indoor and outdoor. combined with a new vehicular entrance.
The design statement points out that all buildings and landscaping will have regard to the existing mature setting of the “B” listed walled garden structure.
The equestrian development includes a new dedicated access driveway, gated yard area with provision for parking and trailer, a hay barn/ horse lorry store and stables and indoor arena.
The report reads: "Both the stables and barns are single storey pitched roof structures clad in horizontal timber with a grey profiled metal roof and gutter system. A small clock tower is proposed, providing some visual interest."
The design 'minimises the impact' on the existing landscape by being carefully sited and provides 'tree screening to good effect'.
Any trees felled, for instance in creating the access to the yard, will be supplemented by new tree planting elsewhere on the estate, with the overall intention of improving the biodiversity of the site by proper woodland management.