To quote from our objection: 'This site at Lower Rockledge is particularly sensitive and the previous application (0201/19/FUL), which we objected to, was rightly rejected by SHDC. Natural open space and retention of trees and vegetation between the properties on this hillside are a rare and attractive feature of this part of Salcombe. The proposed development would remove a significant area of green space to the detriment of the low density development character of the area and wider view of the town, including from across the estuary.'

The case officer agreed, recommending refusal 'in the interests of preserving the significant public visual amenity benefits of the prominent subject trees which serve to add extensive varied amenity benefits as large sylvan features to the wider sylvan setting of estuary/ harbour mouth locality, as amplified by the steeply falling topography and paucity of blocking features, the proposal, on balance and in consideration of its limited social and economic benefits, is not deemed acceptable.'

However, in submitting his appeal, the applicant claimed: 'no objections raised by neighbours and local societies are considered sustainable in planning terms and none raise the same issue as that objected to by the Council', adding 'the design, scale and massing of the house will not be harmful to the local area'.

The main issues, concluded the planning inspector, were:

• whether or not the proposed development would increase the likelihood of significant works to trees subject to a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) and, if so,

• whether this would cause harm to the landscape and scenic beauty of the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).

And, as far as the Inspector was concerned, 'In addition to the increased likelihood of loss or reduction in protected trees, the consequent harm to the AONB is a matter of great weight according to paragraph 176 of the Framework.'

The appeal was dismissed.