Plans approved for 'blot on the landscape' home

Plans for a house described as a "blot on the landscape" have been approved, despite some local opposition.

Proposals for an eight metre (26.2ft) self-build house in Sambrook, near Newport, were submitted by Newport resident, Chris Horton.

Telford and Wrekin councillors were told that the fact that it would stand out was one of the things which made it exceptional and justified building it in a rural area.

However it recieved a flurry of objections, including that of local man, Michael Rowley, who said it would be a "black box the size of six houses" and look like a "retail store".

Telford and Wrekin ward councillor Stephen Burrell asked his colleagues to go on a site visit before deciding.

He added it would be a "blot on the landscape" in a "very, very, rural part of the borough".

Councillor Nigel Dugmore said: "It does not float my boat."

"I can't see anything particularly innovative on this design."

However, Jack Harris, the scheme's planning agent, said the requirements of exceptional design had been met.

"It will be a unique and exceptional dwelling," he added.

A planning officer told the committee that to "meet the test" of being exceptional it "does have to have a prominent form in the landscape, almost showing off the building."

Councillors approved the plans by seven votes to one.

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