PLANNERS are recommending the approval of a controversial holiday development near Selkirk despite a refusal to submit a business case by the applicants.

Proposals for holiday chalets on land at Whitmuir Hall have been in the pipeline for more than 20 years.

But recent applications have been met with a wall of objections and planning committee rejections.

Whitmuir Hall owner Alan Williams submitted a revised planning permission in principle application last year for 19 chalets with a new access to the land.

Members of Scottish Borders Council's planning department postponed making a decision to request investment details and carry out a site visit.

Representatives of Mr Williams have highlighted that around £10,000 of investment has recently been made to upgrade swimming facilities at Whitmuir.

But they declined to offer a full business case until a full planning application is submitted.

Planning officer Andrew Evans stated: "There is little robust evidence in the submission that is likely to fully satisfy the concerns expressed by members at the meeting in September, although there is a commitment to continue to improve facilities at Whitmuir as part of the wider redevelopment.

"Accordingly, members will need to consider whether the information submitted in response to the request by the committee is sufficient to satisfy any

outstanding concerns, and thus, whether to accept or refuse the application as it stands, or with the imposition of an additional planning conditions or indeed a legal agreement."

A total of 40 objections have been tabled since the application was submitted.

Concerns raised include the development having an adverse impact on the surroundings, an impact on the wildlife at the nearby Whitmuir Loch, and that the proposals are not a viable form of development.

Members of the planning committee will reconsider the application at their meeting on Monday.

And, despite the concerns, they are being advised to approve the bid.

Mr Evans added: "It is considered that the proposal complies with council policies on tourism development in the countryside.

"The proposal would result in the extension of an existing tourist facility that would positively contribute to the local economy and Borders tourist industry.

"Provided that a high quality of layout, design, materials, landscaping, drainage proposals and construction methods are agreed at the detailed application stage, it is considered that the proposal would not have a detrimental impact on the environment or visual amenities of the area or have an adverse direct or indirect effect on the adjacent site of national natural heritage importance.

"The proposal would not harm the residential amenities of occupiers of properties in the surrounding area and adequate access can be provided."