The Cairngorms National Park Authority has approved plans for a new rural business on the outskirts of Nethy Bridge with the granting of planning permission for a house and horse stables.

Meeting in Boat of Garten today (18^th March) and following a site visit, members approved the plans for a single home and outdoor horse livery.

The applicants already operate a ‘DIY’ livery service on the site but now wish to expand the business by offering clients a full livery service, which requires the applicants to live on site and have permanent stables for the horses.

Objections to the development had been raised, particularly in relation to how the new buildings would impact on the setting of the nearby Category C listed Abernethy Kirk and Castle Roy, a scheduled ancient monument.

Recommending the application for approval, planning officer, Katherine Donnachie said: “The development, subject to various conditions, complies with our Local Development Plan policies and will provide a suitably designed and located house and sustainable business venture appropriate to the countryside location.”

Eleanor Mackintosh, Convener of the CNPA planning committee commented: “We have given this proposal the utmost attention and scrutiny and the concerns from objectors have been fully considered. However, we are happy support this application and welcome the addition of a new rural business in the Cairngorms National Park.”

To read the planning papers in full please go here.