Historic England opposes affordable homes plan

Braunton Community Land Trust favours Broadlands Farm, which is close to local amenities

Historic England is opposing plans to build affordable homes in Braunton, north Devon, citing the importance of preserving nationally-significant land.

Braunton Community Land Trust (CLT) is seeking permission to construct homes for social rent at Broadlands Farm, Saunton Road, part of the historic Braunton Great Field.

The Great Field is one of only two surviving medieval open field systems in England.

Historic England argues the proposed development would erode this rare heritage site.

"The importance of preserving this nationally-important site cannot be overstressed," a spokesperson for Historic England said.

"Braunton Great Field is an extremely rare survival of a once predominant agricultural practice."

Despite an extensive search for alternative sites, the CLT favours Broadlands Farm, where it is in negotiations with the landowner for its use and which is close to local amenities, said the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

The proposed homes would be owned by the trust and rented to local families, ensuring they are never sold on the open market.

'Massive need'

Braunton Parish Council supports the plans, with 39 letters of support and one objection received.

However, North Devon Council officers recommend refusal due to Historic England's strong objections.

The council's planning committee has deferred the application for a site visit and to explore other potential locations.

A housing enabling officer said there was an acute housing crisis in Braunton, exacerbated by holiday lets and second homes.

"If accepted, this proposal will provide 100% of the dwellings as social rent and go some way to addressing the massive need for affordable housing in the parish," the officer said.