The planning application for development of a golf course at Coul Links, Embo has been called-in by the Scottish Ministers.
Background
Explanation of the Ministers' call-in powers are in my previous blog.
The application was notified to Scottish Ministers because the Council were minded to grant planning permission against the advice of Scottish Natural Heritage.
The SNH objection is reflected in the reason for the call-in:
The Scottish Ministers have given this Direction as the proposal raises issues of national importance in relation to natural heritage issues and its compliance with SPP which require further scrutiny at a national level.
Consequences
The application will now be examined by a Reporter, who will prepare a report with recommendations to the Scottish Ministers on the determination of the planning application.
The Reporter might decide to hold a public inquiry or hearing. For example, the Reporter appointed to examine the application for the onshore transmission works associated with the Inch Cape offshore wind farm has arranged to hold a public hearing.
The Strathy South wind farm decision illustrates that permission might still be granted despite the objection by SNH.
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