Shepherd’s hut holiday let at Abbotswell, Lyme Road, Uplyme

“Description of site 4.1 The application site is located within the curtilage of a detached property known as Abbotswell, which is situated on the border between Dorset and Devon County/East Devon District. Abbotswell is a generous sized detached property within its own grounds which includes part of the line of the former Axminster to Lyme Regis railway line at the southeast end of the property.”

“The Shepherds Hut is approximately 6.4 metres long, 2.4 metres wide and 3.2 metres in height from ground level, has a rectangular plan form, is raised off the ground on four wheels, has timber external walls in natural finish and a curved corrugated metal roof. On the northwest elevation is a window and steps leading to French doors 2/3 glazed. Background and relevant planning history None 7.”

“In accordance with the Council’s scheme of delegation this application is brought to committee for determination as Dorset Council owns part of the land on the application site and the application was previously deferred at the meeting of the Western and Southern Area Planning Committee on 11 th December 2025. Summary of recommendation: Grant planning permission subject to conditions.”

“Key planning issues Issue Conclusion Principle of development Within Defined Development Boundary and as such principle accepted under Local Plan Policy SUS2. Proposal is for new built tourist accommodation and as such the principle is accepted under Local Plan Policy ECON6. Scale, design, impact on character and appearance The design would be in keeping with the character of the area.”

“Therefore, it is considered that the scheme would be acceptable in terms of flood risk subject to details being submitted and approved in regard to flood warning and emergency procedures. Economic benefits 12.8 It is considered that the retention of the Shepards Hut as tourist accommodation would make a small contribution to the local economy through the likely spend of guests, which would support retail, food and drink and travel services in the area.”

“The Visibility Splay drawing no.1576.005 submitted with this application sets out proposed alterations to the boundary fence to the north of the site access and removal of a hedge to the south of the site access.”

“The development hereby permitted shall be carried out in accordance with the following approved plans: Location Plan – Dwg no. 1576.004 Proposed Plans & Elevations – Dwg no. 1576.001 Site Plan – Dwg no. 1576.002 Block Plan - Dwg no. 1576.003 Visibility Splays - Dwg no. 1576.005 Block Plan - Dwg no. 1576.003 Reason: For the avoidance of doubt and in the interests of proper planning.”

“Within 1 month of the date of this decision a flood warning and response plan (FWRP), which must include flood resilience measures, and an emergency evacuation plan shall be submitted to the Local Planning Authority for approval. The development thereafter shall be carried out in accordance with the approved FWRP and shall be managed and maintained in accordance with it.”