A planning application has been submitted to East Lothian Council to build 14 homes on land surrounding Bank Park House off Tranent’s Edinburgh Road.

If approved, the plans, lodged on behalf of the trustees of MPACT Group Ltd, would result in the removal of a number of trees in the woodland next to B-listed Bank Park House.

Bank Park House is situated to the north side of Edinburgh Road, with the existing house located in the mid-west of the estate.

The house was built in 1857 and is owned by Matthew Wright, one of two directors of MPACT Group Ltd, a Loanhead-based fit-out, refurbishment and mechanical and electrical contractor.

A tree survey was undertaken by Caledonian Tree Surveys to provide an assessment of the nature, condition and characteristics of the tree canopy on the land.

It was noted that some of the trees on site were found to have a life expectancy of 20 years.

A design and access statement in support of the application says: “This is very much seen as a complementary development to sit alongside the main house which itself is undergoing significant refurbishment works.

“The proposed development will not have a negative impact on the setting or appearance of Bank Park House.”

The proposed new houses would share vehicle and pedestrian access with the existing entrance to the estate.

The planning statement added: “The site is generally hidden from public view.

“Existing residents on the western side of Bankpark Crescent and the relatively modern properties on the south side of Bankpark Grange will have visibility of the new homes as they border their own properties, but this in itself does not generate any unacceptable overlooking/privacy/amenity concerns.”

If the development is approved, a quarter of the homes should be made “affordable”, as current housing policies dictate.

The planning statement, on behalf of the applicants, addresses this issue by saying: “We have attempted to open negotiations with affordable housing providers and those that have responded have stated that they would not be interested in taking control/ownership of a development of just three or four affordable units.

“The affordable housing providers prefer a greater quantum of development which enable a more efficient management structure.

“On this basis we will look to continue to discuss this situation with East Lothian Council in the interest of seeking an appropriate solution involving the payment of a commuted sum towards an off-site delivery solution.”

Mike Falconer, chair of Tranent and Elphinstone Community Council, did not envisage the proposal causing much friction in the local community.

He said: “As it’s just 14 houses, I can’t see any issues with the proposal beyond the need for access which will result in the removal of some trees.

“It’s not unusual to ask for these trees to be replaced with new plantings elsewhere so we’ll see what happens.

“The plans recognise the need [for the homes] to be in keeping with the character of the Tranent Conservation area too which is good despite the site being located outwith that area.”