Holiday apartment plan for abandoned 'Apostles' site

According to a design statement, prepared by IDPartnership-Group: "The range of accommodation has been designed specifically for this location to create a unique proposal.

"Apartments and houses proposed vary in size and create contemporary homes with generous living spaces, natural light to create comfortable holiday home from homes.

Large picture windows give clear views towards the coast, Goatfell, the burn and woodlands. Designs have been inspired by local materials and building narratives. The stone walls that are found all over the island and encompass the woodland site today have been a key element in the design process."

The houses would be built in three separate blocks. In Plot A there are 28 two-bedroom apartments and 14 two-storey units with off-street parking. Plot B has 11 two-bedroom, two storey houses with parking to the rear.

The dwellings in Plot B are set off the existing stonewall enclosing the site to the east, their terrace form inspired by the many row houses found on the island. Buildings are pushed back from the main road leaving space for the stone wall and planting to the front.

In the design statement the developers accept: "The development of additional holiday homes could divert visitors from other, existing, tourist accommodation or potentially relocate staff from similar facilities. However, Arran is a popular holiday and visitor destination with a recognised demand for holiday accommodation which has continued to grow over the last 10 years.

"The proposed development will generate local jobs, apprenticeships, visitors and investment. It will have a positive economic effect on Arran and the wider North Ayrshire areas. The additional visitors attracted to the island will have a positive effect on local businesses and links will be forged with other businesses on the island."

The planning application is under consideration by North Ayrshire Council planning officials.