WEST Devon planners last week gave the thumbs up to the development of nine flats on a town centre site in Tavistock ? despite objections over lack of parking. The application by Grange Park Securities Ltd will see the nine flats being developed to the rear of 10 and 11 Brook Street, adjacent to Old Exeter Road, on the site currently occupied by the Village Arcade. Planning officer Ed Persse told West Devon?s planning committee that objections had been received by local residents, concerned at the lack of parking provision for the flats, inadequate access provision, lack of access for the emergency services and an adverse effect on the conservation area. Tavistock Town Council supported the application but was also concerned about parking provision. South West Water had objected, due to the fact the public foul sewerage system had insufficient capacity. Mr Persse said a similar application for nine flats was refused by the council in September. The new application differed however ? four parking spaces or a commuted sum to provide spaces elsewhere was included and the height of the building in the new plan had been reduced, to lessen the impact on its surroundings. Mr Persse told the committee: ? Overall, officers consider the proposal would replace an indifferent building with a building that would enhance the character of the Conservation Area. The design is high quality contemporary, with some use of local stone and other materials.? He said there was sufficient amenity space around the building and the design ensured the flats would not be overlooked. As far as access in case of an emergency was concerned, there were two roads within 45 metres of every point within the footprint of the proposed development and a sprinkler system could be installed. Mr Persse said the Government was committed to development of brownfield sites and had instructed local authorities that town centre parking standards should be relaxed. ?Accordingly, officers consider refusal on grounds of inadequate car parking is most unlikely to be successful at appeal,? he said. Planning consent was approved for the development, subject to a condition that development was not started until the borough receives written confirmation that the public sewerage system had been updated sufficiently to accommodate foul drainage from the development. The committee also stipulated that four parking places be included, plus a commuted sum of £5,000 to provide spaces elsewhere. l An application to build 16 flats on land at the Grade II Listed Ordulph Arms in Tavistock has been deferred, pending archaeological investigations. The application by Warehouse (SW) Ltd to build the one and two-bedroom flats to the rear of the pub, between Pym Street and Drake Road, was considered by West Devon?s planning committee last week. The development would include a roof terrace and balconies, plus parking spaces for ten vehicles. The committee heard the design of the building was ?big and quite imposing? but included fine design details, plus timber windows and doors which would combine to produce a ?very impressive building?, enhancing the character and appearance of the area. Planning officers have recommended approval, but the committee heard more historical information was needed regarding the site and an archaeological assessment needed to be done before a decision could be made. ?It?s quite close to the grounds of the old Abbey precinct,? said planning officer Ed Persse.
