AN application to turn a derelict plant nursery into a farm shop, café and commercial units has been rejected by planners.

The proposal for the site at Rock Nursery in Station Road, Chudleigh, also included parking, access improvements and landscaping.

But Teignbridge District Council (TDC) refused to grant 23/00019/MAJ planning permission.

In its decision notice, the council said that the submission ‘failed to demonstrate that the proposed development will conserve or enhance the significance of the designated heritage asset, Grade II* Listed Ugbrooke Registered Park and Garden, and undesignated heritage assets Chudleigh Rocks and Lawell House’.

The development was not ‘designed to conserve or enhance the landscape character of the site nor does it protect the landscape features within the site that reinforce the local landscape character’, the notice adds.

The council also cited drainage concerns and the possible encroachment the development into the root protections of two trees subject to Tree Protection Orders as reasons for its refusal.

The site, which is just off the A38 at the entrance to the town, has been redundant for more than ten years.

In 2019, proposals were submitted for a new farm shop and garden centre with a cafe and a woodland play park, with 100 jobs set to be created.

But Teignbridge Council planners rejected the scheme in 2020.