PLANS to build a state-of-the-art Budleigh Salterton seafront restaurant on the site of the Longboat Caf� could be blocked by Clinton Devon Estates which owns part of the plot, the Journal can reveal.

PLANS to build a state-of-the-art Budleigh Salterton seafront restaurant on the site of the Longboat Caf� could be blocked by Clinton Devon Estates which owns part of the plot, the Journal can reveal.

So far, Clinton Devon Estates (CDE) has refused to enter into negotiations with the developers - and will only consider its position if the controversial plans get the final go-ahead.

The district council currently leases land from CDE which is included in the application. The council said the estate's stance would not affect the application - revealing plans to demolish the brick caf� to make way for modern two-storey restaurant were still on the table.

The latest development comes after months of back-biting in the town between restaurant supporters and those opposed to the proposed plans.

A CDE spokesperson said: "Clinton Devon Estates does not wish to comment publicly on the democratic and statutory planning process under way regarding this application.

"The estate is not minded to enter into negotiations regarding releasing any interest in the freehold of the beach and site of the shelter at this time.

"Once the planning application has been determined, the estate will reconsider its position in light of information available at that time."

CDE currently owns the land beneath the public shelter - which has been earmarked for part of the proposed development if the restaurant gets the go-ahead.

The estate also owns nearby land - a pivotal part in the successful execution of the plans.

An East Devon District Council spokesman said: "We can confirm CDE owns the freehold of the land upon which the public shelter stands and some of the immediately adjoining land that comprises part of the application site for the proposed new Longboat cafe.

"The land that Clinton Devon owns is held on a 999-year lease by EDDC, with 949 years left to run.

"This situation does not affect the planning application for the new cafe, which has not been withdrawn and remains to be determined.

"When the planning application was made for the new cafe, the appropriate notices were served on CDE and EDDC, given their respective interests in the site.

"The planning application is therefore valid and can be determined once the additional plans requested by members of the development management committee on August 25, 2009, have been received. It can then be reported back to members for them to consider the additional details.