Gladman Developments have won their appeal on a greenfield site in Bideford. The site was not allocated, but the Council recognised that they could not meet their 5 year housing supply and that Bideford was one of the most sustainable settlements in the district. As is too often the case, the scheme was recommended for approval by the Case Officer, but refused by Members.
The main issues for consideration were landscape and ecology. On behalf of Gladman Developments, Clive Self, Managing Director of CSA, gave landscape evidence and was able to demonstrate that in formulating the masterplan, landscape and ecological matters were one of the key considerations.
The Inspector found that the environmental benefits of the scheme should be afforded significant weight as significant BNG would be achieved, and generous amounts of green infrastructure provided.
The impact of the development on the character and appearance of the area was considered to be moderate and localised and hence the scheme was approved.