LACK of parking in Tavistock Town Centre has led to a plan for 11 flats being turned down by West Devon planners.

Grange Park Securities Ltd had applied for consent to build on land to the rear of 10/11 Brook Street but the plans were opposed by the County Highways Authority, Tavistock Town Council and more than 30 local residents.

Access and parking were the two main concerns as there was no parking area on site and the nearby Old Exeter Road was already fully utilised, the borough council's planning committee was told last week.

Speaking on behalf of the opponents Richard Halliwell quoted a number of planning policies which the application contravened relating to car parking and loss of retail space and the effect of the proposed green zinc roof on a conservation area.

He said the development would generate at least 11 cars and there was no off-street parking designated when planning policy dictated 1.5 car parking spaces per dwelling.

His concerns were reiterated by ward members Dick Eberlie and Roy Connelly who said there was a loss of premium retail space which was vitally important when 600 new homes were earmarked for Tavistock.

Planners also agreed to the demolition of existing sheds and outbuildings on the site, which used to house a pottery business, because they were in a poor condition and had no architectural significance.