PLANS to extend a town fire station have been approved despite local objections.

The application was submitted seeking approval for the proposed extension of the fire station at Bude to provide showers, better toilet facilities and new changing rooms.

Following the submission of these plans, a number of objections were raised. This, combined with it being recommended for approval on Cornwall Council’s own land, the final decision was made by the East Area planning committee of Cornwall Council.

In Bude, the objections to the proposal stated: “The extension will spoil the look of the Wharf buildings. Concerns regarding the impact on Grade II Listed building The Bark House and the narrowing of the gap between buildings. The extension will result in the loss of storage space and working areas for fisherman and boat owners.

“The new extension should be a first-floor extension to avoid the loss of storage space/working areas. A new Fire Station should be constructed in a position that is in a more suitable location. The Fire staff responding to incidents do not have allocated spaces to park their cars and have received parking fines.”

However in documents produced by the council for the planning committee to consider, it noted: “The main area of concern relates to the impact of the extension on the historic environment, including the character and appearance of the Bude Conservation Area and the setting of the Grade II listed Bark House.”

Despite objections, plans have been approved with conditions. These include that the construction commences within three years, and “any contamination that is found during the course of construction of the approved development that was not previously identified shall be reported in writing immediately to the local planning authority.”

Finally, the fire station shall be occupied and used in accordance with the approved Flood Warning and Evacuation Plan.