We wish to raise concerns in respect of the recent local planning application for 18 homes at Selworthy House, Warren Road, Kingsbridge, and risks for irreversible precedents being set for building with encroachments being made into the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in Kingsbridge, the South Hams and Devon in general.

This planning application area lies outside the SHDC masterplan for the town, encroaches into the AONB within 50 metres of Bowcombe Creek country wildlife site, and in close proximity to the shoreline of the Salcombe and Kingsbridge estuary and Site of Special Scientific Interest.

It will be seen from vantage points around its locality, thus extending the urbanised development of the countryside.

Which area around this beautiful estuary will be next?

This is a concerning development which could lead to the desecration of our countryside and shoreline with its special qualities that bring many people peace and tranquillity into their busy lives; notwithstanding this is the reason tourists come here.

Unique natural habitats for rare wildlife species and the conservation of our locality must be preserved not only for future economic prosperity, but also for us all to enjoy for generations to come.

Should we stand idly by and allow all these things to take place or should we fight to keep what I believe is a unique local heritage? Once gone, its loss cannot be reversed.

What do you think?

Jeremy and Shani Stewart

Embankment Road Kingsbridge