Smaller, lower detached house at Riverside House Newnham Bridge, Umberleigh

What was proposed

The application sought changes to an approved detached dwelling, including a smaller footprint, lower roof, repositioning, revised access and exterior alterations.

“This is a Section 73 application for the variation of Condition 2 (approved plans) attached to planning permission 77868 (Demolition of existing workshop building (following approval for conversion ref 77597) and erection of a detached dwelling house along with new access, amenity space, car parking and landscaping (amended description) to allow a reduced footprint and lower roof height…”

“The amendments relate to the following: − Reduction in footprint − Reduction in height − Repositioning of the dwelling − Relocation of access drive and parking − Alterations to the exterior design…”

Officer report

The site

The site is in the countryside near Umberleigh and contains a dwelling, cottage and steel-framed garage or workshop.

“The application site lies in the countryside, approximately 2.75 miles north-west of Chulmleigh. It forms part of a wider pocket of development at the convergence of the A377, the B3226, the Tarka Railway Line and the River Taw north of Kings Nympton Railway Station. The railway line runs close to the eastern edge of the site.”

“The application site contains an existing dwelling and small cottage along with a steel framed garage/ workshop, previously approved for conversion to residential use (Ref 77597).”

Officer report

Earlier planning decisions

Earlier permissions covered the workshop conversion, the detached dwelling and later amendments, while another detached-house application was dismissed.

“Reference Number Proposal Decision Decision Date Devon EX37 9EU 77868 Demolition of existing workshop building (following approval for conversion ref 77597) and erection of a detached dwelling house along with new access, amenity space, car parking and landscaping (amended description).”

Officer report

Officers’ assessment

Officers considered the reduced size and height would lessen visual prominence without harming the setting, amenity, ecology, drainage, highways or parking.

“The reduction in footprint and height would reduce the visual prominence of the dwelling within the wider site and would not significantly impact on the visual prominence of the approved dwelling from the local highway. The repositioning of the dwelling proposes a…”

“The proposed alterations to the opening and the reduction decking area are considered to be minor alterations which better reflect the reduced scale of the dwelling The proposed roof material to natural slate is also considered to acceptable and reflect the local character.”

Officer report

Consultation responses

Chulmleigh Parish Council recommended approval, the sustainability officer raised no further requirements, and no representations were received from neighbours or interested parties.

“Reply Received: 29/07/2025 Chulmleigh Parish Council recommends approval of this application.”

Officer report

Who spoke

The Senior Planning Officer presented the application and answered a committee question about the road access.

Committee discussion

In response to a committee question, the Senior Planning Officer advised that access to the road would remain unchanged.

“In response to a question from the Committee, the Senior Planning Officer (CR) advised the following:”

“That the access to the road would remain the same and not change.”

Minutes

The vote

The committee unanimously approved the application as recommended by the Senior Planning Officer.

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

Minutes