Beach huts or beauty spot? Battle rages over Loch Long plan

Residents opposing a new development fear Scotland is becoming a Klondyke for wealthy property speculatorsEven by the aesthetic standards of some rural property developments, the one planned at Loch Long in Argyll and Bute is startlingly nondescript. The site is accessed through virgin woodlands which provide shelter to endangered and protected species, including European long-eared bats, pine martens and tawny owls. This brings you out to the shoreline and a stunning vision across one of Scotland's grandest sea lochs that hasn't changed with the passing of aeons and is a designated area of panoramic quality.The tiny hamlet of Portincaple, which sits alongside Loch Long, is facing the prospect of seeing its population of 120 doubled by a luxury housing and hotel project described by local people as "an aggressive major development". Continue reading...