Whisky Galore harbour saved from development

A HISTORIC Scots harbour used as the backdrop for the remake of Whisky Galore has been saved from a controversial modern development by a Government planning chief.

Portsoy, Aberdeenshire, setting for the Traditional boat festival. Picture: contributed

The plans, for a new “boat shed” and self-catering accommodation beside the 17th-century harbour at Portsoy, Banffshire, drew a storm of protest after they were initially recommended for approval by council officials.

Residents felt the development, on land at a former salt house near the harbour’s edge, would damage a renowned boat festival held annually at the port.

Filmmaker Alan Wands, who used the conservation zone as the backdrop for his remake of the Compton Mackenzie classic Whisky Galore, starring comedian Eddie Izzard, said the development would damage the prospect of other movie projects using the location.

In a letter to planning officials Wands warned it might make the beauty spot impossible to use as a “period” location.

He said: “In my opinion, Portsoy harbour is a unique and beautifully preserved site which will be spoiled by the building of a holiday home on the site of the old salt house.

“It will certainly make it much harder for other filmmakers to use the harbour as a location for period films or television productions.”

Aberdeenshire councillors went on to reject their planning official’s recommendation for approval and threw out the application.

The project’s architect, Stuart Matthew, appealed to Scottish ministers in December in a bid to overturn the decision.

Now, however, Scottish Government planning Reporter Michael Cunliffe has ruled that the boat house would form “a prominent and incongruous element” that would detract from the “picturesque” character and appearance of Portsoy harbour.

He said: “The impression of a transition from the town, along the harbour to the rugged coast and the sea, is essential to that character as it has evolved over more than three centuries into the present picturesque scene.

“The proposed development does not accord overall with the relevant provisions of the development plan and there are no material considerations which would still justify granting planning permission.”

Portsoy Harbour hosts the popular Scottish Traditional Boat Festival. Started in 1994, it occurs annually, and is worth over £4 million to the local economy.

The “Old” Harbour dates to the 17th century and is the oldest on the Moray Firth.

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