MSP Annabelle Ewing says she “shares the concerns” of Aberdour residents angry at a decision which is set to see 85 new homes built in the village.

A total of 18 constituents visited Ms Ewing this week to voice their fears about what they believe are unsuitable proposals for land to the south of Main Street.

The plans were originally refused by Fife councillors after more than 800 objections were received.

However, they are now set to be approved on appeal after the Scottish Government reporter issued a notice of intention that said he was “minded to grant planning permission” to Cala Homes.

Following a meeting with a delegation of Aberdour residents at a recent surgery, Ms Ewing said she had “once again” raised concerns with the relevant authorities.

“I think the strength of local feeling about the Cala development plans was made quite clear by the fact that 18 people turned up at my recent surgery to express their concern,” she said. “Indeed, some 820 local objections were lodged when the planning application was first submitted.

“Crucially, the reporter’s Notice of Intention to approve appears to be based, in large part, on a purported 55 per cent shortfall in housing land supply but that figure is no longer current.

“I share the concerns of my constituents on this matter and have written to the Planning Minister and Fife Council expressing those objections.

“If this development goes ahead, there will be a major impact on the community of Aberdour.

“I have written to Fife Council asking how they intend to engage with the local community in Aberdour regarding the S75 conditions to be sought by Fife Council and to let me know how they intend to ensure that the developer and not the taxpayers of Fife would shoulder the financial burden of school and other infrastructure expenditure should this application succeed.

“One of the most significant concerns raised by local residents related to the impact of this planning application for 85 houses on local health care provision to existing residents in Aberdour. It is my understanding that the local GP practice closed its list some time ago.

“In that regard, I have asked NHS Fife what role they might have in any Section 75 process, with Fife Council and the developer, as well as how they anticipate meeting the local health needs of the owners of the proposed new 85 houses and what impact that will have on the provision of health services to the existing residents of Aberdour.”

Cala Homes’ planning manager Steve Cooper told the Press last month the reporter’s balanced consideration of the proposal had reaffirmed the suitability of the site.

“The reporter recognised the severity of the housing shortfall in Fife and this outcome is great news for people who wish to live in Aberdour and those who are currently on housing waiting lists in the area,” he added.

“We have already received a number of calls from interested parties who are keen to secure a new home in Aberdour.”