Commenting on the decision of a Scottish Government reporter to allow, subject to conditions, the appeal on land adjacent to Beveridge Row, Belhaven, local Councillor Michael Veitch said: "This a disastrous decision from the Scottish Government reporter, who appears to have ignored the very strong level of opposition from East Lothian Council and the local community. A development on this greatly valued green site threatens to forever alter the character of Belhaven and West Barns, and is certain to cause widespread anguish locally. This is a very sad day for local democracy and for the communities affected."