A PICTURESQUE rural valley on the outskirts of Tavistock could be damaged if plans for a farm diversification project go ahead, protesters this week claimed. The change of use application has been submitted to Dartmoor National Park Authority by former West Devon mayor Richard Phillips, who wants permission to convert an agricultural building at Ash Farm, Grenofen. But residents fear it would be the first step towards urbanising the valley ? a major gateway into Tavistock. They have organised a meeting tomorrow (Friday) for residents concerned by the application. Karen Cole, who lives close by, said: ?It could set a precedent for other people to build sites like this within the park, which is supposed to be a top holiday spot.? Mrs Cole was also concerned over additional traffic movements on Whitchurch Road, already the subject of traffic calming due to excessive vehicle speeds. Grenofen resident Emma Weatherby claimed the barn would need substantial alterations, which would ?give it the appearance of a factory with loading bays?. She said: ?The proposal would seem to contradict Dartmoor National Park Authority?s policies, with particular reference to protecting the natural beauty and character of the park and the effect on the environment in terms of pollution and traffic.? She suggested the business could be just as well situated on an existing industrial estate in Tavistock such as Crelake or Pitts Cleave. Ian Walton, chairman of Plasterdown Grouped Parish Council, confirmed the council had received several representations by worried residents regarding the scheme. ?It is something that is causing concern ? hopefully Mr Phillips or his agent will be coming to see us to clarify a few issues,? he said. The council will consider the application at its meeting at the beginning of September. Peter Rowan, agent for Mr Phillips, denied his client was attempting to develop the rural valley. ?Mr Phillips is looking on this as a farm diversification project, utilising an existing farm building. He is not thinking of developing anything else there and, frankly, any new building on that site would not get planning consent.? He said the application was for change of use of two thirds of an existing farm building, which would be used by a small company manufacturing animal fleeces. ?They have been in operation for five years and need to expand. It?s a very quiet business, it?s basically four ladies sitting with sewing machines ? it?s quite innocuous.? Mr Rowan said the business relied on the internet for sales, so traffic movements from the site would be negligible. Jo Burgess, DNPA planning officer, said it was too early to say what her recommendation would be regarding the application. The consultation period regarding the scheme expires on September 7. The residents? meeting will be held in Whitchurch Parish Hall at 7.30pm on Friday September 26. More information can also be viewed at Whitchurch Post Office.
