Bowling Green, Plymtree, EX15 2LF

Main issues, as the Inspector framed them

• Whether the proposed development is in a suitable location for housing, with particular regard to the accessibility of services and facilities and to the reliance on motor vehicles
• The effect of the proposal on the setting of nearby listed buildings
• The effect of the proposal on protected trees
• The effect of the proposal on the character and appearance of the surrounding area

What decided it

The location of the proposed development outside the settlement, combined with harm to designated heritage assets and character and appearance, collectively attracted significant weight that outweighed the modest benefits of housing supply and self-build status.

The modest benefits of one additional residential unit, construction employment, and self-build status were given moderate weight but were substantially outweighed by the significant weight attached to unsustainable location, less than substantial harm to listed building setting, and harm to character and appearance including protected trees.