AN agricultural retailing business is to build premises on the old gasworks site in Tavistock's Pixon Lane.
Permission to demolish the old buildings was given nearly ten years ago and the site has stood empty for some time — this week West Devon Borough Council's planning committee granted consent to West Devon and North Cornwall Farmers Ltd to build on the site.
Planning officer Jane Green said the application fitted in with the surroundings both in terms of use and design, but several trees on the site would have to be felled.
'The landscape officer is aware of the loss of these trees and has no objection whatsoever,' she said.
Cllr Caroline Keane was concerned about the appearance of the site.
'Is there anything that is going to replace these trees or is there any arrangement for landscaping? The area is already ugly enough,' she said.
The committee agreed to grant permission for the building on condition it is landscaped and the pavements constructed to an adoptable standard.
The business will only be in operation between 8am and 6pm and use of the site is strictly limited to the sale of agricultural merchandise and animal foodstuff.