SOUTH Hams Council has approved plans for a platform over the slipway of Whitestrand car park.

The plans have been met with opposition in Salcombe, with around 150 people attending an extraordinary town council meeting to oppose the plans on July 5.

The South Hams District Council’s Development Management Committee approved plans for works to Whitestrand during their meeting on Wednesday, August 3.

The application had previously been brought to the committee, however, with local representations being made, community concerns and a highly attended public meeting in Salcombe, members deferred the application and agreed to a site visit on Monday, July 25.

In light of public concerns, the applicant had previously amended the proposal of change of use which could have included retail and restaurants.

South Hams District Council’s chairman of Development Management, Cllr Robert Steer, said: ‘At today’s Development Management Committee, the revised application came back before Members after the site visit and the removal of change of use.

‘We reviewed the amended plans and approved the application, finding that the revised plans had taken into account public concerns. Members also discussed the safety and access to pontoons, highlighting the fact that the Salcombe Harbour Master was in favour of the plans.

‘I would also like to make it clear that safety concerns are not material planning matters.

‘Members approved the plans, highlighting that the area would be enhanced by the works to the decks and quayside frontage.’