Simplified Planning Zone bears fruit in Irvine with 146-home development

More than 140 homes are to be built in Irvine as part of a new Simplified Planning Zone (SPZ) adopted by North Ayrshire Council.Simplified Planning Zone bears fruit in Irvine with 146-home developmentIn January 2020, the local authority became the first in Scotland to adopt an SPZ for residential development to stimulate development on a prime housing site. As part of the Scottish Government pilot, the SPZ allowed developers to deliver a major housing project by providing planning consent upfront.Now Bellway is set to take advantage with the construction of 146 homes as part of the latest development at Montgomerie Park.The SPZ provides a development framework with conditions that must be met. If developers comply with the parameters and conditions of the SPZ scheme they do not need to apply for planning permission. The approach aimed to spark development at the site after slow delivery and sales rates in recent years post-recession.The property marketing for the land covered by the SPZ commenced in January 2020. This was advertised via the council’s website and following the marketing process, a preferred bidder was identified. The sale has now concluded to Bellway Homes Limited for the development of 146 homes following cabinet approval in November 2021.The capital receipt from the sale will be used to support the North Ayrshire Council Capital Investment Programme, including a new primary school and early years centre at Montgomerie Park, as approved by the council in March 2021.