A 35-BED extension to Venn House nursing home at Lamerton has been recommended for refusal by planning officers.

West Devon Borough Council's planning committee will discuss the application by Venn Care Ltd next Tuesday.

The council has received more than 20 letters of objection to the proposal and Lamerton Parish Council is strongly opposed to it.

There were concerns that the extension would have a significant impact on the lives of the residents already living on site as they had free use of the orchard area which was currently proposed for building. Opponents also said that the new building would dwarf the adjacent cottages and impact upon the historic setting of the listed Venn House.

Both English Heritage and the council's conservation officer have objected to the development.

But the applicants state the project will provide much-needed jobs, facilities for elderly and mentally infirm patients and secure the long term financial viability of the business.