BBC
Councillors have granted approval for the plans put forth by renowned fashion designer Stella McCartney and her husband, Alasdhair Willis, for the construction of a clifftop residence in the Highlands.
The proposal, situated on the banks of Loch Ailort—an inland sea loch located west of Fort William—faced significant opposition, garnering over 65 objections.
Concerns raised by opponents included the size and design of the property, as well as its potential impact on the surrounding landscape and local wildlife.
A representative for McCartney and Willis stated that the proposed home, which features stone walls and a turfed roof, has been designed to ensure minimal visibility within the landscape, and it will serve as a "family, forever home."
The intended location for the residence is at Roshven on a rocky headland, known as Commando Rock, which has historical significance as a military training site.
The land was previously owned by someone who had initiated construction on a house in the early 2000s but subsequently abandoned the project, leaving behind some remnants of low walls.
The current couple's development will overlap with part of the prior site, ensuring the preservation of nearby pine trees, which had contributed to earlier concerns.
The new home is expected to be powered through renewable energy sources.
Stella McCartney, the daughter of renowned musician Sir Paul McCartney, has established herself as a leading figure in the global fashion industry. In recognition of her contributions to fashion and sustainability, she received a CBE in 2022.
Alasdhair Willis serves as a creative director at the apparel brand Adidas.
Amended plans for the property were reviewed by Highland councillors.
The proposed site is located in the area designated as Commando Rock.
On Wednesday, the Highland Council's south planning applications committee approved the plans, contingent upon a number of conditions aimed at mitigating the impact of external lighting on the landscape, given the elevated position of the site.
Additionally, it was mandated that sewage and surface water drainage systems be directed away from the cliff edge.
A license from Scotland’s nature conservation body, NatureScot, will also be required due to the presence of otters in the vicinity.
Councillor Kate Willis, representing the Fort William and Ardnamurchan Green Party, advocated for the imposition of stringent conditions on the project. However, her request for a deferral to allow for a site visit was not supported by her fellow councillors.
Councillor Thomas MacLennan, an Independent from Highland, expressed that the proposed structure would integrate more harmoniously into the landscape than the previously approved design.
The representative for McCartney and Willis emphasized their intent to create a "highly sustainable home that has been sympathetically designed." The property will utilize natural Scottish stone and incorporate a turfed roof.
The spokesperson elaborated, stating, "It will be secluded and barely visible due to the site's contours, including views from the water. Unlike many of the homes in the area, this is not a holiday home; it is a house that the family will live in, our forever home.
"We look forward to continued engagement with the local community as we progress with our development and eventually move into our new home."
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