Sandnes, Beadon Road

Sandnes, Beadon Road

Readvertisement (Revised Plans Received) Replacement dwelling with associated landscape work (amendment to design previously approved 1125/17/FUL)
The south elevation of the originally proposed replacement building

The Society initially objected to this proposed replacement of a 1960's/1970's style three-storey building, the most westerly residential property located within the development boundary of Salcombe, that had been built into the steeply sloping, wooded hillside. We were concerned that although the existing dwelling was, to a great extent, screened from public view by the trees which stretch down to the Beadon Lane track, the nature and scale of its proposed replacement dwelling would be such as to significantly increase its visibility and therefore visual impact.

We also noted it was clear the applicants intended to remove many trees protected by Woodland TPO Ref: 86, an Order protecting trees and saplings of whatever size within the Sandnes Woodland.

Four further letters of representation followed before this application was finally determined.

In the first we expressed our concerns that the construction management plan, if approved and implemented, would be severely detrimental to a substantial area of Beadon Lane and its unspoilt, sylvan sense of place.

In the second we reaffirmed many of our earlier concerns, our belief that the development would be in conflict with the Neighbourhood Plan, and the impact the proposed extensive glazing would have on dark skies.

In the third we commented on the revised construction management plan, the need for access to the site to be widened and the adverse environmental consequences.

And in the fourth, written after the Development Management Committee had approved the application, we pointed out that 2.55m wide construction vehicles would not be able to access the site along the 2m wide tree-lined Beadon Lane without impacting verges, hedges, trees and root system.

Yet despite our reservations, those of the Town Council and the fact that the application had attracted over 330 letters of objection, 3 letters of support and 11 undecided comments, the case officer had still recommended approval, a decision endorsed by the DMC.