International award before Owenstown is even built?

That could well happen with the scheme to build 3200 homes in a new community the same size as Lanark near Rigside up for an international award, rated as being second only to the Nobel Prize in global recognition and respect.

If the Owenstown plan DOES win the Wolfson Economics Prize for 2014, it could make it embarrassing for South Lanarkshire Council to refuse the project planning permission, as is recommended by its planning officers.

The council feels that the scheme, which would include building a town for 8000 citizens along with schools, shops and workplaces, goes against its local development policies, although elected councillors will have the final say.

A special meeting of the council is due to be held shortly to decide the issue.

For more details, pick up a copy of this week’s Carluke and Lanark Gazette.