Argyle and Bute Council gives plans for yoga retreat and crofters bothies green light

Plans for two bothies and a multi-purpose barn near the east shore of Loch Fyne have been given the go-ahead by council chiefs.

Fin Barge’s proposal for the site south of Gortein Croft at Strachlachan has been awarded planning permission after Argyll and Bute Council received no representations expressing objection or support.

The site was previously subject of an application for five short-term letting units, but the applicant later withdrew that bid.

A handling report said that planning permission was sought for “the erection of a barn that would have a multi-functional use providing crofting training workshops; a yoga retreat; and living quarters” as well as “the erection of two single-storey bothies containing a kitchen/living room; bedroom; and bathroom”.

The council planning officer who dealt with the case said: “The barn building will be used in conjunction with small group croft tours that will offer visitors the chance to come to the croft and learn about regenerative agriculture and also to see the animals in the conditions which help them grow and thrive.

“There is the intention to run workshops and volunteer days and to offer work experience to young people in particular with a view to highlighting that positive action to combat climate change is possible and effective.

“The barn will also support the existing yoga and wellness business that is presently run from elsewhere and this operation would diversify the croft activities.

“The design and access statement advises that the bothies are likely to provide accommodation for the yoga retreat participants and forest crofting trainees although there is also the possibility that they could appeal to those with an interest in conservation, nature, birdwatching and photography.”

The officer added: “It is considered that the business, economic, tourism and rural activity benefits of the proposal (whilst relatively localised in nature) can be viewed positively in the context of the council’s key planning policy aims of supporting and sustaining fragile rural communities by contributing to actions to reverse Argyll and Bute’s falling rural populations and to support the economy.”