THE decision by West Devon's planning and licensing committee to refuse planning permission on the plans before it for the development of North Tawton's wool mill was undoubtedly the correct one to take.
In common with the vast majority of North Tawton residents, I strongly support a correct and sound development of the site, making the maximum use of the historic buildings there. However, also in common with the majority of residents, I do not believe that the plans submitted were right for the site and the town.
It was pleasing to hear when I attended the committee meeting that the members shared many of the concerns of the people of North Tawton, but they were not shutting the door on the development and still believed that a worthwhile scheme could be produced and acted on.
When I spoke to the architects' representative after the meeting I expressed the hope that the developers would not give up on the site, and I got the impression that his company would be endeavouring to take on board some if not all of the criticisms which have arisen. I do not think that it is impossible to achieve a scheme of benefit both to the developers and to the town, and I look forward to proposals coming forward in the near future.
John Lucas
Gowmans Terrace
North Tawton