A GOLF driving range near Yelverton is to be extended — despite objections by 158 residents and the local parish council.

West Devon's planning committee gave officers the go-ahead to grant permission for a golf shop, café facilities, offices and extra storage space at Yelverton Golf Driving Range at its meeting on Monday.

Temporary permission to site a mobile home as manager accommodation on the range near Crapstone was also granted.

Planning chief Stephen Gill told councillors Buckland Monachorum Parish Council objected to the scheme on grounds that the development was within an area of outstanding natural beauty (AONB) and outside the Crapstone development area. The council was also concerned about light pollution he said.

The committee heard that member Gordon Mills was also opposed to the application.

'He objects both to the increase in size and the siting of the mobile home,' he said.

Residents objecting to the application were concerned over the increased number of vehicles and the fact the development would be highly visible.

But Mr Gill said the borough tried to support businesses build up their trade and on that basis recommended approval of the mobile home.

He said the highways authority had no objections to the proposals and although in an AONB, the driving range was situated close to a business park and caravan park. He said the proposed extension would be in keeping with the area.

Kevin Wigens, owner of the driving range, said there was a 'very real security problem' which would be helped by a manager living on site.

He said a wide variety of items had been stolen from the range including bulbs at £200 each.

He said the driving range was 'very well supported' even by people who originally objected to the business.

'We are trying to extend an existing business — at the end of the day I believe what we are doing will be good for the area, provide more jobs and be a success for the area,' said Mr Wigens.

Cllr Noel Cartwright said: 'I don't believe this will be detrimental to the AONB, there don't appear to be any highways problems. I believe this development will be beneficial, it provides a much needed facility.'

The planning committee agreed to delegate planning consent to officers, subject to conditions including restrictions on shop floor space, opening hours and goods on sale, which should only be golfing-related.