Mobile sauna at The Sea Shanty, Branscombe, Seaton

What was proposed

The application sought retrospective permission to change the use of land for a mobile sauna unit.

“Proposal: Change of use of land for the siting of a mobile sauna unit (retrospective)”

Officer report

The site and surroundings

The sauna site was beside the beach and a café, within protected coastal landscapes and areas at risk from flooding and coastal change.

“The application site is located at Branscombe Mouth, a coastal area within the historic village of Branscombe. The site lies within the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site, the East Devon National Landscape (formerly AONB), and the Coastal Preservation Area as designated in the East Devon Local Plan.”

“The site comprises a small, level triangle of land formed by a grass lawn, a stream (Old Mill Stream), and the pebble beach. It is situated to the south-east of The Sea Shanty café and adjacent to the public beach. While the site is above the mean high water line, it lies within Flood Zone 2, with surrounding land designated as Flood Zone 3, indicating a higher risk of flooding from both fluvial and coastal sources.”

Officer report

What officers recommended

Officers recommended refusal because the proposal could not be made safe from flooding and would harm the undeveloped coastal landscape.

“The proposed development is located within Flood Zone 2, with access through Flood Zone 3, and is at risk from both fluvial and coastal flooding, rapid river level changes, and erosion. The submitted Flood Risk Assessment fails to adequately assess these risks or demonstrate that the development can be made safe for its lifetime. No emergency evacuation plan has been provided, and the risks associated with ground instability and bank erosion have not been addressed.”

“The proposed development, by introducing a visually intrusive structure onto an undeveloped section of Branscombe beach within the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site, East Devon National Landscape, and Coastal Preservation Area, would harm the area's natural beauty and scenic character.”

Officer report

What people said

Ninety-six comments supported the sauna for wellbeing, community and tourism benefits, while two raised visual, environmental and siting objections.

“Wellbeing & Health • Users describe the sauna as a transformative experience for mental, physical, and emotional wellbeing. • It provides a peaceful, restorative space that encourages mindfulness and connection to nature.”

“Objections (2 total) The objections raise concerns about the visual, environmental, and locational impact of the sauna unit:”

Officer report

Support from local representatives

The ward councillor and parish council supported the sauna as a removable facility benefiting tourism, the community and local businesses.

The committee’s decision

The committee deferred the application and requested an updated flood risk assessment together with flood warning and evacuation plans.

“Location: The Sea Shanty, Branscombe, EX12 3DP.”

“RESOLVED: Deferred to request updated Flood Risk Assessment and Flood Warning and Evacuation Plan.”

Minutes