PLANS outlining the demolition of part of Sidmouth International School were given the go-ahead by district councillors last week. Members of the Planning Inspections Committee met on Friday to discuss the contentious planning application after they visit

PLANS outlining the demolition of part of Sidmouth International School were given the go-ahead by district councillors last week.

Members of the Planning Inspections Committee met on Friday to discuss the contentious planning application after they visited the site to consider design issues earlier in the day.

The application, with conditions attached, is for outline permission to demolish the existing single storey classrooms and to build in its place a pair of two bedroom semi-detached houses at Heydon's Hall, Heydon's Lane.

Members of the district council's Development Control Committee opted for a site inspection two weeks ago after they were unable to come to a decision during their meeting.

The main concern for the councillors was the site's close proximity to a Conservation Area as well as several listed buildings.

However the agent of the applicant appealed to the committee to support the application and said the houses were 'low cost developments' and would generate only a low amount of traffic.

Councillor Frances Newth, ward member, said: "I accept something could be built there on this site but I still feel two semi-detached houses will spoil this idyllic lane and would be overbearing."

But Councillors Ray Franklin said: "The application is only an outline. The design and material will be decided at a later date

"It is not within a Conservation Area although there are beautiful buildings there abouts. I think the recommendation with the conditions mentioned is the right decision."

The motion to approve the application was passed after members voted unanimously in support of it.