Planners approve three-storey houses despite strong objections from neighbours

Planners have approved an application to increase the height of some properties at a proposed housing development in Axminster despite strong local opposition.

Permission had already been granted for eight dwellings on the site of the former courthouse and police station in Lyme Close.

Members of East Devon District Council's planning committee have now agreed that three of them can be changed from the original two-bedroom, two-storey dwellings to three bedroom, three storey dwellings with dormer windows.

Objectors expressed concerns that the taller buildings would overlook nearby properties.

Axminster district councillor Andrew Moulding said: "I still maintain my objection as I don't consider that three-storey properties in this location are appropriate."

Axminster county and district councillor Ian Hall said: "I recommend refusal as three-storey buildings are not a suitable or conducive to the area."

Axminster Town Council objected on the grounds of loss of amenity by virtue of overlooking for the properties on the opposite side of Lyme Close.

Councillors said there was no evidence to support the applicants' assertion the proposed alterations to the homes on an elevated site would 'meet local demand'.

Four local residents objected to the loss of privacy to nearby properties and the setting of precedent arising from the proposed dormers.

But in a report to the committee planning officers recommended approval for the application, saying that with the changes the development was considered to be acceptable in terms of amenity and streetscene impact'.

They added: "A slight increase in contributions towards off-site affordable housing provision would arise due to the increased floorspace created."

The former police station and magistrates' court which currently occupy the site have been vacant for many years.