Planning permission has been granted to convert and extend a property in Fore Street, Seaton, to create four new flats.

The original application sought permission to create seven flats at Foxford, 51 Fore Street, but this was later scaled back to four flats and permission granted by East Devon District Council on October 8th.

Foxford is a 10-bed former bed and breakfast, which was sold as a single private dwelling four years ago. The frontage of the building has recently undergone improvements and the extension will be built in matching stonework.

The application, submitted by Revival Building Works, said the development would help revive the "original village" part of Seaton, while providing much-needed housing.

It stated: "Although there are many detached and semi-detached estate homes surrounding Seaton, there is a very strong demand for flats as this type of living appeals to those who wish to downsize and do not want to be burdened by large gardens. Flats also are affordable to young couples who often do not have the time or inclination to spend on the upkeep of a garden.

"Both extremes in the housing ladder seek, or at least appreciate, the proximity of any development to a the high street, major retailer or supermarket, pubs and restaurants, healthcare, and education and sports facilities. Foxford has all these.

"This development both serves and is served by all the above, plus it will help reinvigorate this original village part of the town.

"In all, this development helps rejuvenate this part of town by providing new homes and residents, who then will be able to live and use the town centre and facilities all year round."

Other local planning applications to be given the green light in recent weeks include the demolition of side and rear extensions and construction of new two-storey side and rear extension, single-storey rear extension and glass porch canopy at Castle Cottage in Castle Hill.

A proposal to erect a three storey building to form three one-bedroom apartments, carry out internal alterations to existing property to create an additional one-bedroom dwelling at 18 Fore Street was refused by East Devon District Council.

Applications currently awaiting decision include the following: construction of raised decking and garden shed (retrospective application) at 40 Lydgates Road; construction of two-storey side extension, two-storey front extension and rear gable former window, including balcony, at 31 Poplar Tree Drive; additional of two modular stand-alone changing room buildings at Seaton Town Football Club in Colyford Road; construction of two-storey side extensions at single-storey rear extension at 8 Havenview Road; proposed replacement of fire-damaged dwelling at 63 Scalwell Lane; retention of boundary wall (retrospective application) at 6 Foxglove Road.