AN application to convert an existing electrical building at a popular destination on Dartmoor is under fire from local residents.

The plan, submitted by Peninsula Properties, would see the existing elecrical, staff and stores building at Burrator Dam being converted in to an electrical room, toilets and kiosk. The kiosk area would have interpretation boards and is intended to replace mobile outlets like the ice cream van parked in the area permanently during the summer.

But residents have recently voiced their concerns over increased traffic problems at the popular location, which has been the scene of several gridlocks over the festive season — and they believe the planning application will increase this problem.

Parking over Christmas left residents of Sheepstor 'furious' after they were unable to access or exit their village on several days in a row.

But the problems of how people parked their cars came to a high point on Boxing Day when a festive fun-run saw around 100 cars being 'dumped' by their owners who set off for a seasonal jog around Burrator Reservoir.

The situation was repeated a couple of days later when a local fox hunt held a meet nearby, and again on New Year's Day and January 2, when the area became the focus for walkers and cyclists.

A local resident, who asked not to be named, said: 'Unfortunately there is absolutely no control of parking at Burrator Dam. We have repeatedly asked Dartmoor park and the highways authority to take some responsibility, but they have ignored our request for action.

'What is needed, at the very least, are some clearly marked passing bays so that traffic can flow at all times, backed up with some enforcement.'

Many residents are concerned that if a fire engine or ambulance was needed in Sheepstor, the emergency services would be unable to reach them.

The issue was debated at a meeting of Burrator Parish Council's planning committee on January 2, when councillors discussed the planning application to convert the generator building.

The parish council committee agreed unanimously to object to the proposal on the grounds the development would only add to the problem by bringing more visitors and cars to the already saturated spot.

They also highlighted the increased likelihood of litter and concerns over road safety for pedestrians.

Cllr Keith Scrivener said at the meeting: 'The problem of congestion at Burrator Dam is already at breaking point.

'To throw a tea room in to the equation without creating or controlling parking is simply madness.'

During the consultation period regarding the application, the main concern throughout has been regarding parking and traffic congestion.

A final decision on the plan will be taken by Dartmoor National Park Authority in February.