PLANS for a farmshop and restaurant near Branscombe are a step closer after district councillors gave the green light in principle to the project last week. The approval of the outline application by Branscombes Ltd means that planners agreed to allow th

PLANS for a farmshop and restaurant near Branscombe are a step closer after district councillors gave the green light in principle to the project last week.

The approval of the outline application by Branscombes Ltd means that planners agreed to allow the company to replace a barn near Three Horse Shoes Farm with the shop and ancillary caf�/restaurant.

But a full planning application detailing plans for the new building needs to be approved before work can begin.

Mike Green, district councillor and ward member, welcomed the news.

He said: "I am hoping that it will now move to the full application stage and will provide jobs as well as supporting agriculture and the fishing industry in my ward."

If approved, the new venture, called Branscombe's, will include:

* A caf� serving 40 to 50 people at any time, with additional summer fair on an outside terrace.

* A shop focusing on quality produce, sourced from Roslake Farms and other local producers and suppliers.

* A lecture room cum demonstration kitchen which will enable cookery demonstrations to be staged, talks to be given and courses to be run.

* Parking facilities for visitors and staff.

It is thought the business would create four full time jobs and eight to 12 part time jobs.

Nigel Bennett, a planning consultant, representing the land owner said: "The proposal will be of great benefit to the local community not only in terms of the retail farm shop and caf�/restaurant facilities provided but also the new jobs that will be created.

"I am very pleased with the result and am excited about the project."

He said Branscombe's will stock fresh fruit and vegetables, break and baked goods, fresh meat, poultry and fish, dairy, ready-made meals, preserves and drinks.

The summary business plan states: "The rationale for Branscombe's...seeks to create a compelling showcase for own-grown and locally produced foods and provisions that will appeal to and be accessible to local residents, holidaymakers, tourists, day visitors and passers-by alike.

"The shop at Branscombe's will aim to restore the seasons, support Roslake Farms and local producers and, as awareness grows, serve growing demand for local deliveries, internet orders and perhaps, in due course, outside catering in the area."

Mr Bennett said he hoped the full planning application to be submitted "quickly" to East Devon District Council.