The Society fully accepts the need for more genuinely affordable housing in the South Hams. And it is entirely possible that this site could successfully be developed for that purpose.

But as we say in our objection there is unfortunately no guarantee that this proposal will help satisfy that requirement and, before officers consider recommending approval, there are a number of critical issues that need to be addressed.

To begin with, and as the draft Neighbourhood Plan for the parish is at pains to stress: ‘Sewage discharges from the Harberton sewage works are a particular concern in the community’. There is also a problem with flooding in Harberton, and consequently it is important to be certain any development will do nothing to further exacerbate either pollution or flood risks.

In addition it is highly questionably whether the site can actually accommodate 17 dwellings and, if that is the case, what are the implications for the provision of any genuinely affordable housing?

In our view it is essential that satisfactory answers to such questions are received before consent is given.