HOUSEBUILDERS behind a controversial bid to develop 75 homes on greenbelt land in Kilmacolm insist their estate would be eco-friendly.

Mactaggart & Mickel want to build in Quarry Drive and say the properties would be partly powered by renewable energy sources.

Under their blueprint, the site would not be connected to the national gas network.

The company say it would be 'fossil free' in advance of the Scottish Government's requirement that gas central heating is banned from all newly built houses by 2025.

The developers have submitted an outline planning application to Inverclyde Council for the project and say that they will continue to encourage people in the village to have their say on the plans.

Craig Ormond, director at Mactaggart & Mickel, said: “Sustainability is about more than just the design of the homes, and with schools, shops, recreational facilities all within easy reach, Kilmacolm is an inherently sustainable community, with almost everything you need on a day-to-day basis right on villagers’ doorsteps.

“The new homes which are planned for Quarry Drive will be sympathetic to the character of Kilmacolm and they will be perfect for people who are attracted to all of the benefits of living in this fantastic village.

“The people who make Quarry Drive their home would also boost the local economy, making sure that village amenities thrive.

“As part of a major community engagement exercise, which went far beyond what is required by the planning process, we directly contacted all households asking for ideas on how we can make a positive contribution to Kilmacolm.

“We are very grateful for their helpful ideas which have now been submitted to Inverclyde Council’s planning department for consideration as part of the development."

Kilmacolm Residents' Association are up in arms over the proposal and earlier this year they urged villagers to oppose it.

One of the key objections cited is environmental, with locals arguing that the area in question, known as Kilmacolm Meadow, must be protected.

But Mactaggart & Mickel say they have incorporated a raft of eco-friendly measures in their plans.

They say the homes will feature air source heat pumps, photo voltaic panels to turn light into heat, electric car charging points and strong broadband connections.

Residents who want to find out more about the development can visit the dedicated website which has been established by Mactaggart & Mickel: www.kilmacolm.macmic.co.uk