PROPOSALS for a new glamping complex in Straiton have been resubmitted after plans to erect the holiday site were turned down for being too remote.

The proposed glamping dome would be situated in the Carrick Forest which is just east of Maybole. It would only sleep six people, but its skylight would allow visitors to sleep under the stars and would be open all year round.

South Ayrshire Council are entitled to refuse planning applications outside towns and villages unless it can be justified that they can benefit the economy. The council declined the application in November last year but a new case will be submitted and reviewed this week.

They told the applicant that the proposed area is too remote. The dome would be five miles south of Straiton village within the Galloway Forest Park area on Newton Stewart Road.

The applicant plans to generate income by allowing the complex, which would be called a Geodome (Geodesic Dome), to be rented out weekly by occupants all year round. The idea is being sold on its location as well which is a minute walk from Loch Bradan.

With the proposal being resubmitted it has been argued that there is a case for building the glamping done despite the location being viewed as isolated. The applicant stated that the area is the only place appropriate for this idea so that the dark skies can be enjoyed in all its glory. He said: “The ‘Rural Business Procedural Note’ clarifies that when a business is not appropriate to a town area; it is applicable under Rural Diversification.

“A Geodesic Dome to bring people into the Forest and for stargazing cannot be anywhere else other than inside the Dark Sky Park away from light pollution.”