A proposal to build a separate managers’ accommodation on agricultural land in Budleigh Salterton has been dismissed at appeal.

A controversial application to build a two-storey managers’ accommodation on agricultural land in Budleigh Salterton has been dismissed at appeal.

Faye and Alan Pratt, of Lily Farm Vineyard, in Dalditch Lane, had put in an application to build a two-storey managers’ apartment on site.

East Devon District Council had rejected the proposal leading to an appeal being lodged with the planning inspectorate.

Inspector Andy Harwood dismissed the appeal, saying that it would harm the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).

In the report, he said: “The harm to the AONB that would be caused by the construction of the proposed dwelling has great weight in my decision which is not outweighed by any special circumstances or other matters.

“For these reasons, the proposed dwelling is unacceptable.”

The couple, who live in the Moormead area of Budleigh, had put in the application to build a new ’s accommodation and to extend their current facilities to give their wine making business extra security.

They argued that having a constant presence on site would allow them to have peace of mind.

Mr Harwood added: “It may be inconvenient to have to drive a short distance rather than simply walk out of the back door of the proposed dwelling.

“However, based on the evidence before me, managing crop can be undertaken in this way.”

The application previously drew opposition from residents living in Daldtich Lane who were concerned that the new property would be out of character for the area.

Mr Harwood said: “The two-storey dwelling would be in a raised position relative to the road in order to be above the higher flood risk zone.

“This would be a substantial structure in a position detached from any other buildings and enclosures elsewhere in the field.

“Even if supplementary landscaping was to take place as proposed, the building and domestic activity around it would be noticeable from the existing dwellings on either side of the site.”

Faye Pratt told The Journal that the couple thanked everyone who has supported them through this process and they are ‘reviewing their ongoing options’.