Stockleaze, Earthcott Green, Alveston, BRISTOL, BS35 3TF

Main issues, as the Inspector framed them

• whether the proposal is inappropriate development in the Green Belt, having regard to the development plan and the Framework
• the effect of the proposed log cabin on the openness of the Green Belt
• whether there is an essential need for a rural worker to live at the site
• whether the appeal site is in a suitable location for residential accommodation, having regard to access to services and facilities
• the effect of the log cabin on the character and appearance of the area
• if the proposal is inappropriate development, whether the harm by reason of inappropriateness, and any other harm, is clearly outweighed by other considerations so as to amount to the very special circumstances necessary to justify the development

What decided it

The demonstrated essential need for a rural worker to live at the site in connection with a viable pigeon breeding and racing enterprise amounted, together with other considerations, to the very special circumstances necessary to outweigh the Green Belt harm.

The harm to the Green Belt from inappropriateness and loss of openness was clearly outweighed by other considerations, principally the essential need case for the rural worker's dwelling, such that very special circumstances existed justifying the development.