Two self-build homes have been approved for a site in Axminster Road, Charmouth – despite concerns from the parish council.

It said the pasture site, west of Brackendale, is outside the development boundary and, so far, has not been favoured for development in the emerging Neighbourhood Plan. The parish council also say it would prefer surface water drains from the site to run into the main drainage system, rather than soakaways.

The site, which is within the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, previously had outline permission for one home.

The new, approved, application from Mr Gary Childs, is for two 3-bed homes with car parking for four vehicles.

Documents submitted to Dorset Council says the homes will be ‘upside down’ houses to take advantage of the views and will be self-built by Mr Childs and a member of his family. Agents says the size of the two new homes will be smaller than the originally proposed single home.