Land to the south of Higil Lea, Crowcombe, TA4 4BF

tourist development comprising: 2no. glamping pods, 1no. shepherds hut (and an implement shed)

Authority: Somerset West and Taunton *
Appeal type: minor · Planning Appeal
Procedure: Written Representations
Development: leisure-sport · Minor retail and services
Inspector: Edwards S

Main issues, as the Inspector framed them

Whether the proposal would be suitably located, having particular regard to national and local planning policies, which seek to restrict development in the countryside
The effect of the proposal on the character and appearance of the area, including the Quantock Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB)

What decided it

The proposal fails to meet the exceptions to countryside development policy and would cause unacceptable harm to the character and appearance of the Quantock Hills AONB, to which great weight is ascribed.

Framework references: 85, 176

Plan policies cited: Policy OC1, Policy EC9, Policy SD1, Policy TR2, Policy NH5, Policy NH14

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- Heritage. Listed buildings by grade and distance, conservation areas, scheduled monuments, registered parks and gardens, heritage at risk.
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- Flooding. Flood zones 2 and 3, surface water, and both again with climate change.
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