New restaurant plans for Lochgilphead lodged

“The existing outside tarmacked area and drainage will be retained and used as a base for the external patio seating. This seating is intended to be put out and removed each day, weather permitting.

“This will create a social space within the town centre and evoke feelings of relaxation, comfort and community.

“Timber planters will be used to create a natural border between the pedestrian pavement and the patio seating, as per notes within the biodiversity statement.

“We feel that this natural boundary of the site would provide much-needed biodiversity into the town centre but also act as a natural buffer between the busy road and pavement for both noise and safety.

“The external seating and planters has been designed in such a way to allow a south aspect, alongside views across Loch Gilp as well as retaining a controlled entrance to and from the pavement and nearby roads.

“We feel these controlled entrances would create a defined walking path across the main road at Portalloch Street, which would be of greater safety than is currently.

“At the moment there is no specific point where pedestrians can safely cross the road, which can be more hazardous for both vehicle drivers, to see where people are crossing, as well as for pedestrians crossing the road.

“By formalising these entrances into the patio area, they in themselves would create an avenue for likely pedestrian movements.”

The statement added: “This development would encourage growth into the town centre, provide a social hub and a space for gathering in the local community.

“It would also add to the local community, adding to an existing portfolio to an existing business run out of Ardrishaig. Therefore, the owner is already a reputable business person in the local area.

“The small business will also offer at least two new jobs to the local community. We are utilising an existing business that is no longer in operation and therefore bringing more valued commerce into the town centre.”

To view the plans and submit feedback, visit the council’s planning portal at argyll-bute.gov.uk and use the reference number 25/02136/PP.