The enthusiasm of the Budleigh Boys to dismiss the importance of the AONB and give greater weight to the economics of Pooh Cottage was not shared by Budleigh Salterton Town Council of which all three district councillors are members. The Town Council had recommended refusal.

At their January meeting the Town’s mayor expressed his surprise that the application was approved. But he was told it was alright as Councillor Dent felt the Highways Report was wrong and more traffic movements would not be created. This was endorsed by Councillor Tom Wright who thinks the result is a good solution.

This is a worrying trend by Budleigh Salterton District Councillors who know better than the planners and statutory bodies and also their Town Council.

An application to demolish a house which makes a “positive contribution to the conservation area” (Historic England) is awaiting decision. It was recommended for refusal by the Town Council.

The EDDC Conservation Officer writes that “Advice given at the pre-application stage concluded that the principle of demolition would be unacceptable on account of the contribution that the existing house makes to the character and appearance of the conservation area.” He concludes that “the proposed demolition should be considered unacceptable and the application refused.” The Environment Agency also has reservations due to the history of flooding in the area.

So what does a Budleigh Boy write?

“I am pleased to see the design of the new build is very similar to the existing and the increase in foot print, in my view, is not over development. I consider the plans to be acceptable and will provide 9 small dwellings, convenient to the town “

Word also has it that the two other boys feel the same.

RIP AONB, RIP special character of Budleigh? “Small dwellings” at any price?