Director for commercial services, John Blair, has lodged a planning application for the erection of 24 houses and 24 flats on land between Greenhall Road and Jubilee Crescent in Gorebridge.
But residents are concerned at the plans – which would ac
commodate up to 192 people – and say the site should be used as playing fields for youngsters.
Objecting on the council's online planning facility, Tracy Cranston said: "It is absolutely appalling that they want to build yet more houses in this area. We have nowhere as it is for our kids to play.
"The council take the stance that as long as there is 'green areas' building more houses is OK. It doesn't matter that these green areas are not fit for playing on. We are creating a society of street kids.
"When the cabins were placed in the field there was a strong objection. I have been advised that the council agreed that when these were removed that the area would be restored to a playing field."
Gorebridge Community Council has also discussed past recollections of the area being returned to open grass once the temporary homes were demolished. Secretary Archie Pacey said enquiries would be made about this before any response was submitted.
Councillor Russell Imrie (Lab), chairman of Midlothian Council's planning committee, said the objections, which raise raise various issues, will be taken into consideration in processing the planning application.
He added: "One of the objections refers to concerns raised at the time when the temporary accommodation was first placed on the site and the expectation that, when the units were demolished, the site would be restored to a playing field. Prior to its current use, the site formed part of school playing fields and is no longer required for this purpose, the new Gorebridge Primary School having been provided with excellent outdoor facilities."
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