AN APPLICATION, submitted by a local family, to build two lodges to form gypsy accommodation in Holsworthy has been granted by Torridge District Council's Plans Committee.

It was reported previously in the 'Post' that the application was expected to be refused by the committee as it had been recommended so by the case officer.

The case officer's reasons for the refusal included that the site was in the open countryside in an isolated and unsustainable location. The location was therefore not well related to local services, contrary to policies in the Torridge District Local Plan and the Devon County Structure Plan This application was considered by the Plans Committee on April 15 when it was resolved to grant planning permission, contrary to the officers' recommendation.

The reason for granting permission for the two lodges was that it was considered that the site is well related to local services and therefore would comply with Policy HSC11 of the Torridge District Local Plan.

The Plans Committee also said the site was 'not impacting unreasonably on any other property, with a need for the accommodation being demonstrated.'