Three storage bays at Land west of Bowhay Lane, Combe Martin, Ilfracombe

“Proposal Description This application seeks retrospective planning permission for the erection of a timber framed shelter to create three storage bays, attached to existing sheds.”

“Site Description The site is accessed off Bowhay Lane via Comers Lane which leads north from Castle Street, Combe Martin. The structure subject to this application is located on the southern side of a parcel of agricultural land and is fronted by a hardened yard.”

“The nearest dwelling is located to the west of the site (also in the ownership of the applicant) and was granted ‘retrospective permission for change of use of outbuilding residential use’ in 2015 via application 59387. To the south are the long back gardens of homes fronting onto Castle Street.”

“Officers acknowledge that the mixed use of the covered bays, comprising personal, equine and land management activities does not strictly adhere to Policy ST07(4), regarding development in a Countryside location. However, Officers are also of the view due to the degree of support provided by Policy DM16, along with the particular circumstances of the site, that the proposals are on balance acceptable in principle.”

“Conclusion The application is on balance considered to accord with the adopted development plan and duties detailed above. Approval of the application is therefore recommended subject to the imposition of planning conditions.”

“However, in this instance the particular circumstances and context of the site are considered to be material. Firstly, it is acknowledged that the site forms part of a 2 acres parcel of land, which has historically been used by the applicant for various purposes including storage and equine use. Secondly, the structure for which retrospective permission is sought comprises a lightweight structure with no enclosed sides, which is attached to existing sheds.”

“Environmental Health Manager Reply Received: 12/08/2025 I have reviewed this application in relation to Environmental Protection matters and comment as follows:”

“The Planning Officer (DJ) advised the Committee of a typographical error in relation to the plan numbers in condition 1 which should state “407/101A and 407/101” and not “407/100A and 407/100”.”

“In relation to lighting provided on other structures, this could not be controlled as part of this application. Lighting could only be controlled on the timber framed shelter in relation to this application. The adjacent barn had been there for some time and there had been no conditions restricting the lighting.”

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