A Devon sawmill seeks official confirmation of its lawful use, potentially preventing legal action.
Mr. Hearne filed the request. He works for Stephen Graeser Planning. The Timber Yard is in Ash Thomas, Tiverton. It wants recognition as a sawmill per the law. Approval means it ran for ten-plus years. It would stop any legal action.
The sawmill showed proof, including sworn statements and old permits. Photos from 2000 exist as well. Mr. Welch bought it in 2000 and started the sawmill then. He sold timber and firewood right away. A council officer saw it in 2003, confirming the sawmill was running.
Google Street View shows timber in 2009 and 2021. It shows work by the current owner. This relies on proving its constant use.
Planners can’t weigh general pros and cons. Past rules tried to control it too. A 2019 change failed.
People feel differently about it. Some worry about noise, while others note its local economic and historic value.
The council will check facts carefully. If they agree, it stays lawful. If not, owners can appeal. They might need new permits, too.