Relocated telephone box at Wilder Road, Ilfracombe

The site and surroundings

The existing box was deteriorated and hidden by vegetation, while the proposed bandstand plinth was prominent, open and publicly visible.

“The existing phone box is situated at the junction of Northfield Road, positioned slightly back from the carriageway within an area open to the public. Despite this, its visibility is significantly compromised by dense surrounding vegetation, which obscures the structure from most passing viewpoints. The phone box itself is in a poor and deteriorated condition, with several smashed glass panels, worn and faded paintwork, and clear signs of long-term neglect.”

“The proposed new location is the former Victorian bandstand plinth within Ilfracombe Pleasure Grounds. This raised octagonal platform occupies a prominent and visually open position along the Wilder Road frontage, forming a natural focal point within the wider landscaped setting.”

Officer report

Earlier site applications

Earlier applications at the pleasure grounds included a withdrawn temporary rides proposal, a refused kiosk application and an invalid memorial obelisk application.

“Reference Number Proposal Decision Decision Date 17190 PROPOSED TEMPORARY CHANGE OF USE OF LAND FOR SUMMER SEASON FOR THE SITING OF CHILDRENS RIDES & ROUNDABOUTS. at VICTORIA PLEASURE GROUNDS, WILDER ROAD, ILFRACOMBE, EX34 8BN WITHDRAWN 30 September 1993 21710 COUNTY MATTER APPLICATION IN RESPECT OF INSTALLATION OF NEW GRP KIOSK TO HOUSE ELECTRICAL CONTROL EQUIPMENT at LAND ADJ.”

Officer report

Why officers supported it

Officers considered the proposal acceptable because it would enhance a heritage feature, fit the setting, avoid significant neighbour or highway harm and add no flood risk.

“Overall, the relocation preserves and enhances a recognised heritage asset while delivering a sympathetic, high‑quality design intervention that strengthens the character, distinctiveness, and cultural value of the Ilfracombe Conservation Area. Furthermore, it is seen that the public benefit from the proposal would outweigh any possible harm that may arise on the heritage assets regarding this proposal having regard to the duty and the NPPF requirements.”

“Given all the above, the application proposal is considered acceptable with regards to Ecology. The proposal is considered to be in accordance with NDTLP Policies ST14 and DM08.”

Officer report

Consultation responses

The heritage officer considered that the proposal would not harm the surrounding heritage asset, and no public representations were received.

“Councillor J Williams No comments received Ilfracombe Town Council Reply Received: 17/03/2026 Discussion: As this is our own application, members reiterated the points made in our submission, particularly how relocating the telephone box aligns with the Cultural Plan adopted by the council in 2025. They also highlighted how this move would directly support our Strategic Plan 2024-2034, especially in terms of marketing Ilfracombe. North Devon Council Reply Received: 24/03/2026”

“Heritage & Conservation Officer I do not consider that this proposal will cause harm to the significance of the surrounding heritage asset, and is likely to safeguard the future of the Non-Designated Heritage Asset, i.e. the phone box itself.”

Officer report

Who spoke

Councillor Williams addressed the committee in support as the ward member.

Questions at the meeting

In response to committee questions, the planning officer confirmed that the telephone box would retain its globally recognised street colour.

“In response to questions from the Committee, the Planning Officer advised the following:”

“There was no proposal to change the colour of the telephone box which was a globally recognised street colour.”

Minutes

The committee vote

The committee unanimously approved the application as recommended by the planning officer.

“RESOLVED (unanimous) that the application be APPROVED as recommended by the Planning Officer (JC).”

Minutes

Planning conditions

Approval required the development to start within three years and to follow the approved plans and details.

“Conditions 1. The development to which this permission relates must be begun not later than the expiration of three years beginning with the date on which this permission is granted.”

“The development hereby permitted shall be carried out in accordance with the following approved plans/details: NDC001 Location Plan received on the 04/03/26 NDC002 Block Plan received on the 06/03/26 NDC003 Picture received on the 19/01/26”

Officer report