Agenda and minutes

Apologies for absence were received from Councillor Whittaker with Councillor Harding present as substitute.

To receive the Minutes from the meeting held on 3^rd April 2025.

Councillor Hames asked for clarification on a condition that was decided upon during the last Plans Committee.

Members asked that Councillor Hames name is amended in the recorded votes.

It was proposed by Councillor Leather, seconded by Councillor Bushby that the Minutes of the meeting held on the 3^rd April were agreed and signed as a correct record with the above amendments.

A recorded vote was taken.

(Vote: For – 8, Abstentions - 1)

Members with interests to declare should refer to the Agenda item and describe the nature of their interest when the item is being considered.

Elected Members of Devon County Council and Town/Parish Councils who have considered a planning application by virtue of their membership of that Council hold a personal interest and are deemed to have considered the application separately and the expressed views of that Council do not bind the Members concerned who consider the application afresh.

The Chair reminded Members to declare their interests when the relevant item was up for discussion.  Declarations of interest were made as indicated below and in accordance with the previously agreed arrangements for “dual-hatted” Members.

That the Agenda as circulated be agreed.

That the Agenda as circulated be agreed.

Information to be brought forward with the permission of the Chair.

There were no urgent matters.

The Chair to advise the Committee of any prior requests to speak made by members of the public and to advise of the details of the Council’s public participation scheme.

The Chair advised the Committee and members of the public of the details in respect of the Council’s public participation scheme.

The information, recommendations and advice contained in the reports are correct as at the date of preparation which is more than ten days in advance of the Committee meeting.   Due to these time constraints any changes or necessary updates to the reports will be provided in writing or orally at the Committee meeting.

Timber storage shed - Land at Torridge Way, Holsworthy Industrial Estate

There was no site visit for this application.

Application No.1/0072/2025/FUL - Timber storage shed - Land at Torridge Way, Holsworthy Industrial Estate

Interests - None

Officer recommendation – Grant

This application was referred to the Plans Committee as the application relates to land owned by Torridge District Council.

The Development Management Team Leader presented the report and informed Members of the main planning considerations.

Councillor Bushby proposed to approve the application. This was seconded by Councillor Leather.

Members asked if a fire assessment would be necessary for this application. The Development Management Team Leader suggested that due to that nature of the application, conditioning a fire assessment, according to the NPPF would be unreasonable.

It was proposed by Councillor Bushby, seconded by Councillor leather that the application is approved.

A recorded vote was taken.

(Vote: For – Unanimous)

Resolved:

That the application be granted subject to the conditions outlined in the report.

Permission in Principle for construction of up two dwellings - Land opposite Tehidy at Broadwoodwidger

The following Councillors attended the virtual site visit:

Councillors: Lock, Leather, Hames, Bushby, Hepple, Pennington, Smith, Harding.

A recording of the site visit was sent to Councillor Wheatley.

Application No.1/0107/2025/PIP- Permission in Principle for construction of up two dwellings - Land opposite Tehidy at Broadwoodwidger

Interests – None

Recommendation – Refuse

This application had been called in by Cllr Hackett for the following reason:

‘This is a small development adjacent to the village and this is a reasonable site to extend the village and the development is proportionate to the site.’

The Development Management Team Leader presented the report and informed members of the main planning considerations. This included an update:

Additional consultee comment from Historic England (objection)

 ‘Historic England objects to this application for permission in principle on the grounds that it could lead to harm being caused to the Church of St Nicholas, where a part of its significance stems from its wider setting within the rural landscape’.

The Development Management Team Leader confirmed that the Officer recommendation was refusal and asked that the update from Historic England is reflected with additional wording within reason for refusal 2 to add reference to Section 16 of the NPPF.

In response to questions about a previous submission, the Planning Manager clarified the purpose of a Planning in Principle application and highlighted how it could benefit the applicant, particularly in terms of costs.

The Planning Manager highlighted the importance of the description in the report and that any subsequent technical detail consent stage would have to be in conformity with the Permission in Principle. She stated that no planning obligation can be secured at this stage. She furthered that, at the moment the application seeks Permission in Principle for two unrestricted open market dwellings.

Councillors expressed that they have, and aim to support local villages when able and have at times voted against Officer recommendation because of material considerations. Members felt that there is other land within the boundary area more suitable for development. Councillors pointed out that since this is a Permission in Principle application, it is contradictory to suggest that the dwellings are intended to meet the local needs of the area and that a local needs application may be a more appropriate avenue.

Councillor Leather proposed to refuse the application. This was seconded by Councillor Hames.

In response to a query, the Development Management Team Leader acknowledged that Devon County Council had raised archaeological concerns and requested an investigation. However, she emphasised that this concern cannot be addressed until the technical details stage.

The Development Management Team Leader reiterated the refusal reasons.

It was proposed by Councillor Leather, seconded by Councillor Hames that the application is refused.

A recorded vote was taken.

(Vote: For –  ...  view the full minutes text for item 99.

Erection of double garage and widening of existing access in connection with an existing dwelling - Golf Links Road, Westward Ho!, Bideford, Devon, EX39 1LH

The following Councillors attended the virtual site visit:

Councillors: Lock, Leather, Hames, Bushby, Hepple, Pennington, Smith, Harding.

A recording of the site visit was sent to Councillor Wheatley.

Application No. 1/0057/2025/FUL - Erection of double garage and widening of existing access in connection with an existing dwelling - Golf Links Road, Westward Ho!, Bideford, Devon, EX39 1LH

Interests – Councillor Hames – dual hatted – Northam Town Council.

Recommendation – Approve

The application had been referred to the Plans Committee as it involves access over Torridge District Council owned land, namely the Car Park located at Golf Links Road, Westward Ho!

The Apprentice Planning Officer presented the report and outlined the main planning considerations. This included a verbal update:

-       Parish Council comments, the same as in the delegated report.

-       Comments from Devon County Council Highways – no objection.

-       1 objection comment relating to pedestrian safety.

-       Drainage details confirmed, the same as in the delegated report.

Councillor Bushby proposed to approve the application. This was seconded by Councillor Smith.

Members requested clarification on the property's current vehicular access and parking arrangements. It was confirmed that, at present, parking is available at the front of the property, whereas this application relates to the rear.

Councillors asked if a condition could be added regarding the height of the fence. The Planning Manager stated that this would be a consideration of balance and whether the Committee considers the proposed height a safety risk for those using the car park.

Clarification was given by the Apprentice Planning Officer concerning vehicle turning space, its entry, and its exit from the garage. She furthered that that Devon County Council Highways have no objections.

The Chair asked the Planning Manager about the conflicting reports from the Planning Officer and the Torridge District Council Estates Team regarding permission to use the car park. The Planning Manager acknowledged that such a situation could arise but detailed that finding a resolution would be a civil or legal matter, which the applicant is aware of.

It was proposed by Councillor Bushby, seconded by Councillor Smith that the application is approved.

A recorded vote was taken.

(Vote: For – 8, Abstentions – 1)

Resolved:

That the application is approved subject to the conditions outlined in the report.

First floor extension to side of dwelling - 12 Pincombe Road, Bideford, Devon, EX39 3FX

The following Councillors attended the virtual site visit:

Councillors: Lock, Leather, Hames, Bushby, Hepple, Pennington, Smith, Harding.

A recording of the site visit was sent to Councillor Wheatley.

Application No.1/0182/2025/FUL - First floor extension to side of dwelling - 12 Pincombe Road, Bideford, Devon, EX39 3FX

Interests – None

Recommendation – Approve

This application was referred to the Plans Committee as the applicant is related to Torridge District Council Councillors and employees.

The Planning Officer presented the report and informed Members of the main planning considerations.

Councillor Bushby proposed to approve the application. This was seconded by Councillor Hepple.

A recorded vote was taken.

(Vote: For – Unanimous)

Resolved:

That the application is approved subject to the conditions outlined in the report.

Construction of detached 3 no. bedroom dwelling with associated external & landscaping works (self build) - Land At Norwest, Churchill Way, Northam, Bideford, Devon, EX39 1PA

The following Councillors attended the virtual site visit:

Councillors: Lock, Leather, Hames, Bushby, Hepple, Pennington, Smith, Harding.

A recording of the site visit was sent to Councillor Wheatley.

Application No.1/0895/2024/FUL - Construction of detached 3 no. bedroom dwelling with associated external & landscaping works (self-build) - Land At Norwest, Churchill Way, Northam, Bideford, Devon, EX39 1PA

Interests – Councillor Hames – dual-hatted – Northam Town Council

Recommendation – Approve

The application was called in to the Plans Committee by Councillor Hames for the following reasons:

For the Planning Committee to consider the following:

1. Parking provision

2. Street parking availability

3. Effect on pedestrians

4. Highways impact of construction period

The Development Manager presented the report and informed Members of the main planning considerations.

It included an update on an additional representation which summarised their concerns regarding parking, waste audit management, and pedestrian safety from visibility.

The Development Manager also corrected an inaccurate statement in the report, which mistakenly classified the road as a Class C road instead of a Class A Highway. However, he emphasized that his recommendation remained unchanged.

Members expressed that they were glad the proposal includes a repositioning of the wall as it would increase visibility for users of the road.

Councillor Leather proposed to approve the application.

Councillor Hames reiterated his reasons for calling in the application and emphasised the key points of consideration.

The Devon County Council Highways Officer was invited to provide comments and respond to questions. He explained that parking concerns had been discussed with the applicant and their consultant, leading to an agreement that they would contribute to the implementation of double yellow lines and a dropped kerb to enhance highway safety in that area.

The Highways Officer noted that the applicant had conducted a traffic survey, and upon evaluation, there was no indication that the survey was inaccurate. Additionally, he mentioned that a Construction Management Plan could be established to minimise the impact of the build on highway users.

Members requested an explanation of the term "dropped kerb" as it relates to this application. The Highways Officer explained that it refers to a lowered section of the pavement, which in this case would include tactile paving for accessibility.

Members asked about the location of the double yellow lines. The Highways Officer explained that the placement would need to be assessed against policy and determined at a later stage.

Councillors enquired whether signage would be installed to indicate an upcoming pedestrian crossing. The Highways Officer explained that this would be determined later during the design process and based on whether signage would be necessary.

The Committee praised the applicant for the design principles. However, citing policies DM5 and DM6, Members expressed reservations that due to parking, approving the application in its current form would conflict with the Local Plan.

Members pointed out that the property is only accessible via steps and raised potential challenges related to accessibility and compliance with disability standards. In response, the Development Manager stated that the design is  ...  view the full minutes text for item 102.

Demolition of existing Interpretation Centre and erection of Heritage Boat House building and associated works - North Devon Maritime Museum, Odun House, Odun Road, Appledore, Bideford, Devon, EX39 1PT

The following Councillors attended the virtual site visit:

Councillors: Lock, Leather, Hames, Bushby, Hepple, Pennington, Smith, Harding.

A recording of the site visit was sent to Councillor Wheatley.

Application No.1/0239/2025/FUL- Demolition of existing Interpretation Centre and erection of Heritage Boat House building and associated works - North Devon Maritime Museum, Odun House, Odun Road, Appledore, Bideford, Devon, EX39 1PT

Interests – Councillor Hames – dual-hatted – Northam Town Council

Recommendation – Approve

The application had been called in by Councillor Hames for Members to consider:

-       Impact on Conservation Area

-       Amenity issues

-       Parking and Highways

The Development Manager presented the report and informed the Committee of the main planning considerations. The presentation included an update which consisted of an objection from Northam Town Council:

-       Conflict with Neighbourhood Plan

-       Harms setting of listed building and conservation area (not outweighed by public benefit)

-       Noise nuisance from extraction

-       Loss of parking

The update also five additional representations, which included the below points:

-       Conflict with neighbourhood plan.

-       Harms setting of listed buildings and conservation area (not outweighed by public benefit).

-       Loss of parking.

-       Harm to ‘Lyndale’ should be given more weight.

-       Comparisons made to 2013 appeal (relating to a new dwelling) and a 2016 appeal (relating to a rooflight).

-       Car park covenant (not a planning consideration).

-       Design and scale unacceptable

-       Impact on birds

Councillor Hames reiterated his reasons for calling in the application and emphasised the key points of consideration.

Members requested details on the size of the proposed development to better assess how much parking space would be lost. The Development Manager provided clarification using site photographs and the site plan to illustrate the details more clearly.

Members highlighted that the applicant has revised the plans, including changes to the materials, to address concerns raised in a previous application. Members noted that neither the Conservation Officer or Historic England have raised any objections. Additionally, they stated that the application offers public benefits and is an example of enhancing the area.

Councillor Leather proposed the approval of the application.

Members enquired about the ownership of the car park and whether its formalisation could be included as a condition.

Councillor Smith seconded the proposal to approve the application. The Development Manager then asked him to confirm that his proposal includes an added condition to formalise the car park, which will be discussed with the Officer, Chair, and Vice Chair. Councillor Smith confirmed this.

The Chair enquired whether the removal of the container on site could be made a condition. The Development Manager confirmed that it was possible, and both the Proposer and Seconder agreed to add this as a condition.

The Development Manager explained the status of the car park on site and outlined the circumstances in which planning permission would be required.

In response to concerns about noise nuisance, the Development Manager stated that Environmental Protection had no objections. However noted that additional information may be requested if considered relevant.  ...  view the full minutes text for item 103.

Demolition of existing Interpretation Centre and erection of Heritage Boat House building and associated works - North Devon Maritime Museum, Odun House, Odun Road, Appledore, Bideford, Devon, EX39 1PT

The following Councillors attended the virtual site visit:

Councillors: Lock, Leather, Hames, Bushby, Hepple, Pennington, Smith, Harding.

A recording of the site visit was sent to Councillor Wheatley.

Application No.1/0240/2025/LBC - Demolition of existing Interpretation Centre and erection of Heritage Boat House building and associated works - North Devon Maritime Museum, Odun House, Odun Road, Appledore, Bideford, Devon, EX39 1PT

Interests – Councillor Hames – dual-hatted – Northam Town Council

Recommendation – Approve

The application had been called in by Councillor Hames for Members to consider:

-       Impact on Conservation Area

-       Amenity issues

-       Parking and Highways

The Development Manager presented the report and informed Members of the main considerations.

Councillor Hames restated his reasons for calling in the application. He encouraged Members to assess how the proposed development would affect the setting and significance of listed buildings and to determine whether the public benefits would outweigh any harm.

Members expressed that they didn’t believe there will be a detrimental impact on the conservation area. Further, Members didn’t believe there are any protected species within the area to be mindful of.

Councillor Leather proposed to approve the application. This was seconded by Councillor Hepple.

Members asked if the type of bird box within condition 4 could be specified. The Development Manager explained that as the same condition was approved in the prior full application, changing it would present a challenge.

It was proposed by Councillor Leather, seconded by Councillor Hepple that the application is approved.

A recorded vote was taken.

(Vote: For – 8, Against – 1)

Resolved:

That the application is approved subject to the conditions outlined in the report.

Graham Townsend as a member of the public spoke in support of the application.

Chris Arnold as a member of the public spoke against the application.

David Fortune as a member of the public spoke against the application.

As Chris Preece has addressed the Committee during the prior application, he decided not to speak again.

Appeal Decision Summary and Reports of Planning Inspectorate

Summary

Appeal Decision – Ref. 1/0256/2024/FUL

                              Ref. 1/0261/2024/FUL

                              Ref. 1/0760/2024/FUL

Members asked if they would be informed of the outcome of the recent Judicial Review regarding an application in Pitt Lane, Appledore. The Planning Manager explained that the application will likely return to the Plans Committee, at which point the information and conclusion of the Judicial Review will be provided to the Committee.

The Planning Manager highlighted the two appeal decisions that overturned Officer recommendation and how the Planning Inspector came to their decisions.

Members asked how the Appeals Process helps Planning Officers to make informed decisions. The Planning Manager explained that appeal decisions demonstrate that Torridge District Council’s planning policies, along with their interpretation and application align with National Policy. She also told Members that the outcomes are reviewed at team meetings, and changes are made if the team determines that it is required.

The Committee noted the Appeal Decisions.

There are no costs on appeal.

There were no costs on appeal.

The Committee noted the Delegated Decisions for the period 25/03/2025 – 30/04/2025

The Committee noted the Delegated Decisions.

List of Delegated Planning Decisions, Consultee Abbreviations and Application Types enclosed 25/03/2025 to 30/04/2025.

Resolved:

That the Planning decisions for the period 25.03.2025 to 30.04.2025 be noted.

There are no Part II items.

There were no Part II items.