QUESTIONS are being asked about what alternative parking might be offered for those who would lose their garages if permission was given to build five two-bedroomed homes where 24 garages now stand among houses off Kiddicott, Crediton.

A planning application to develop the site has been submitted to Mid Devon District Council by Mr Maynard of Portgate, Lewdown,

His agent, Gareth Short of R A Rowe and Co, Bude say that the “creation of five modest residential dwellings on this site will provide homes for local families in the community” and would be a chance to create efficient low carbon housing for future occupiers.

Mr Short also says that: “In planning and highway terms the redevelopment of the site will see a vast reduction in traffic movements associated with a completed residential development when considered against the current use.”

He says the existing single storey buildings are in a poor state of repair with corrugated roofs and offer few aesthetic qualities. The garages are utilitarian and in their current condition “are not performing a function that is of benefit to the community.”

The plan is for three terrace houses and two semi-detached each with a patio and lawned garden.

The design statement goes on to say that the development “will meet the social objective in that local services would be employed during the construction and occupiers of the dwelling would use local businesses.”

Also that the development of this site should be looked upon as a betterment to the immediate setting.

However, one objector says there is little garage space available and these garages are a very valuable asset.

Another who lives close by and rents one of the garages asks what provision is being made for alternative parking for current users.

She asks whether there are plans to widen the access lane to accommodate modern vehicles. She is also concerned about extra traffic, especially at weekends because now they do not suffer from excessive vehicle noise.

Another person who has used the access to their workshops for more than 40 years is worried as to whether this would continue being “paramount to their livelihood”.

Another objector says the rear amenity space for two properties is “on top” of their driveway, which they own.

Currently there are 17 documents on the Mid Devon website including four objection letters among the six comments so far.