Kilmacolm, Inverclyde

Analysis of local housing need confirmed a clear shortfall, forming the basis of Mac Mic’s planning strategy. The approach centred on evidencing that Kilmacolm could support new homes without undermining local character, while addressing an identified requirement for additional housing choice.

A comprehensive community engagement programme was carried out to ensure local residents were well informed and had meaningful opportunities to comment on the emerging proposals. More than 2,000 households received a door‑drop leaflet introducing the project and inviting feedback. A dedicated, site‑specific Facebook page and a project microsite were created to provide updates, with the microsite including a “share your views” function. This allowed residents to submit comments directly, ensuring community views were gathered, reviewed and considered throughout the design process.

In addition to the digital tools, the team held direct conversations with residents, community groups and elected members. This combination of online engagement and in‑person dialogue helped build a clear understanding of local priorities and influenced the evolution of the proposals in a transparent and responsive way.

The proposals were assessed at both local and national level. The Scottish Government approved the development of 78 new homes and a new community park at Quarry Drive, recognising the scheme’s contribution to meeting housing need, widening local choice and delivering wider community benefits.

Following the grant of planning permission, Mac Mic entered into agreements with Scottish Water and Inverclyde Council. Securing these additional land parcels ensured a unified development area and enabled a single, market-ready site to be brought forward for delivery by a housebuilding partner.

Planning permission in principle was secured for a well-considered mix of 78 new homes, including 25% affordable housing. The proposals include a range of property sizes, from three‑bedroom semi‑detached homes to larger four‑ and five‑bedroom family houses, supporting households at different stages. A new community orchard and landscaped open space are integrated into the layout, and the design reflects and respects Kilmacolm’s established character.

The development significantly exceeds national sustainability requirements. While government policy targets a 15% reduction in carbon emissions, the Kilmacolm proposals achieve an anticipated 50% reduction. This performance is driven by optimised natural daylight, enhanced insulation, low‑energy lighting, air‑source heat pumps and rooftop solar photovoltaic panels. These measures combine to deliver modern, energy‑efficient homes with lower running costs and reduced environmental impact.

The development layout is designed to reduce reliance on private car use. It benefits from close proximity to local services, public transport and existing cycle networks. All homes will feature high‑speed fibre broadband to support home working, and will include electric vehicle charging points, secure cycle storage and parcel lockers for home deliveries. These measures reflect changing lifestyle patterns and support more sustainable living.

Environmental considerations shaped the design from the outset. Existing woodland, mature trees, hedgerows and grassland areas have been retained and incorporated wherever possible. Additional planting is proposed in key areas to reinforce the site’s natural character.

Through robust analysis of housing need, a transparent and inclusive community engagement process and a coordinated approach to land assembly, Mac Mic delivered a development that balances community interests, environmental responsibility and long-term placemaking. The site was sold to a major housebuilder in 2022.