On Tuesday 15 September the Pluscarden community learned of a decision by Moray Council to grant planning permission for the building of a cluster of houses close to our boundary.

Our own objections to the scheme were registered in October 2019; together with what seems to be the unanimous opposition of other residents of the Pluscarden valley, and of very many others.

The original proposal for 12 houses has been modified now to only 9.

Friends of the community will share our surprise at this decision, not least because a July 2018 report by a Government-backed "Moray Local Landscape Designation Review" specified that no new building should be allowed near the Abbey.

We understand that Moray Council's decision has attracted comment in the Press and other media.

Presuming that the building goes ahead, it can hardly fail to have a negative impact on this place, which is so famous for its sense of peace and tranquil seclusion.