A GATEHOUSE at the entrance to the Broomford Estate at Jacobstowe has deteriorated so badly its roof is beginning to fall in — but it could be preserved, thanks to a decision by borough councillors on Tuesday.
The keeper's lodge has been unoccupied for several years and has been gradually deteriorating.
At a planning committee meeting in Okehampton members discussed the poor state of the lodge and whether it should be demolished and replaced or steps taken to retain it.
Cllr Dave Weeks said: 'This has been a contentious issue for some years. People ask me why the building has been allowed to fall into disrepair?'
Cllr Weeks, said he felt it was time the committee put a 'heavy hand' on the matter, and argued there could be no delays due to the fragile and deteriorating state of the building.
Cllr John Darch said he felt the gatehouse had a 'particular charm'. This view was supported by other councillors who felt the gatehouse should be preserved.
Planning officers judged that in it's own right the gatehouse was of little to no architectural or historical merit. The conservation officers of both West Devon Borough Council and Devon County Council supported this view.
The keeper's lodge is one of two gatehouses to the Broomford Estate, which is owned by TV and radio personality Noel Edmonds, the other being a grade 2 listed building. Some protection exists for the lodge under the listing of the estate.
Head of planning Stephen Gill said his officers had been in discussion with the owner's agents over the past three years and had advised they were prepared to consider the demolition of the gatehouse and the construction of a replacement building.
Despite promptings by members of the public concerned about the deteriorating appearance of the building, the authority had so far received no plans for such a replacement building.
Mr Gill said he was looking for a 'steer' from members as to their feelings as negotiations continued with the owner's agents.
A motion by councillors advising planning officers that they were of the belief that the building was of architectural merit within the estate was passed. Negotiations on the future of the gatehouse will continue.