B3223, Near Simonsbath, Simonsbath, Somerset, TA24 7JX

a telecommunications installation: proposed 20.0m high Swann Lattice Tower C/W Headframe on new 7.0m x 1.0m RC concrete base and associated ancillary works

Authority: Exmoor
Appeal type: minor · Planning Appeal
Procedure: Written Representations
Development: telecoms · Other minor developments
Inspector: Evans J

Main issues, as the Inspector framed them

The effect of the siting and appearance of the proposal upon the character and appearance of the area, having particular regard to the location of the installation within the Exmoor National Park, and whether any harm would be outweighed by the need for the installation to be sited as proposed taking into account any suitable alternatives

What decided it

The mast would unacceptably harm the distinct character and appearance of the Exmoor National Park through its prominent, intrusive visibility across the landscape, and this substantial harm would not be outweighed by the need for the installation to be sited as proposed when alternative sites had not been adequately considered.

Plan policies cited: CE-S1, CE-D1, AC-D5

Read the decision letter on the Inspectorate’s site

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Heritage. Listed buildings by grade and distance, conservation areas, scheduled monuments, registered parks and gardens, heritage at risk.
Landscape and environment. Green belt, national parks and national landscapes, SSSIs, ancient woodland, SPA, SAC and Ramsar sites, nutrient catchments.
Flooding. Flood zones 2 and 3, surface water, and both again with climate change.
Transport. The 800 metre station catchment and service frequency, bus stops with their weekday frequency, the cycle network, and the Framework’s transport tests measured for the site.

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