Third time lucky for Cobbs Farm playbarn?

Two previous applications have been rejected and a planning appeal was likewise refused. But now the team behind the venture has submitted modified proposals which involve an extension rather than a freestanding building.
Hungerford district councillor Paul Hewer (Con) told a meeting of Hungerford Town Council: “I’m not sure how the planning officers will view it - their stance is ‘no development on that site.’
“But this time I’ve promised to call it in to (West Berkshire Council’s western area planning) committee if they’re still minded to refuse this.”
He added: “I’ve listened to lots of people in Hungerford and it seems likely that it would be well used. I suggest you pop along and see what they’re proposing.”
In March, Martin Crane - who was Hungerford mayor at the time - accused West Berkshire planners of stifling economic growth in the town when they refused the second application.
Those plans had enjoyed widespread public support and were endorsed by Hungerford Town Council and the Chamber of Commerce.
Mr Crane said at the time that he was “perplexed and concerned” by the planning officer’s report, adding: “It seems, to me at least, to be completely biased and in search of any reason to recommend refusal.
“The town council, chamber of commerce and Town Team Hungerford, whose patron is Richard Benyon MP, seek to attract more tourists to the town and use our position as ‘The Heart of the North Wessex Downs’ to promote this objective.”
He added: “The council is also seeking to grow our economy in line with central government policy...in the circumstances, I would reiterate my serious concern that the decision to refuse this application by West Berkshire Council is itself unsustainable and as such should be reviewed by the planning committee as soon as possible to reflect upon the wishes of the local community.”
Although the council refused that 2,500sq ft Cobbs application, planners have agreed an 80,000sq ft leisure and marina complex opposite.
Cobbs Farm Shop and Kitchen is owned by Country Food and Dining Co Ltd, whose director is Tom Newey and whose executive chairman is David Bruce.