AN application to build a detached dwelling to the west of Calstock village centre has been refused. Phil Mason, Director of Planning, notes in his refusal letter that building on the land adjacent to Rosehill House, Higher Kelly would: ‘…by reason of its unsympathetic height, scale, mass and shape… have a conspicuous and harmful impact upon its sensitive setting.’

Located within the Tamar Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (ANOB) and Calstock Conservation Area, the former market garden site has a history of refused planning applications dating back to the 1970s. The exception to this was an ‘earth sheltered dwelling’, aimed at blending in with its surroundings, which was approved in 2014.

Of the 14 public comments received regarding the revised design of the previously approved dwelling, 12 were objections, based primarily on it being out of keeping with its location, and blocking views enjoyed by visitors and residents alike.

Members of Calstock Parish Council unanimously objected to the proposal, and Tamar Valley AONB echoed concerns that the building would be visually intrusive. By contrast, one of the two comments in support of the plan was: ‘we are glad to see someone proposing a new substantial home in Calstock. For the village to thrive a good mix of housing, from affordable to high end is needed.’