A PLANNING application for the mooring of a large ship on Bude Canal has been rejected by Bude-Stratton Town Council’s planning committee.

The application — for Mr and Mrs M Sampson — sought permission for the 60ft length, 20ft beam sailing ship to be intended to operate as a holiday letting accommodation and would be moored opposite Three Bees of Bude. 

At the planning meeting held at the Parkhouse Centre on Thursday, January 31, councillors decided to go against the application, despite the idea itself being praised.

Bude’s mayor, Cllr Bob Willingham, said: “I love the idea, having the community down in the town.”

Cllr Julia Bryson said: “It would be quite a pull for the town. When the barge came to planning, they were going to put it the other side of the Falcon bridge. If it were over there it wouldn’t be a problem.”

According to the councillors, due to its proposed location, the boat would restrict the canal’s ability to operate as a working harbour.

Cllr Tony Philip asked members of the committee: “Would it have an impact on the ability to pull out the boats in the winter? When they lift the boats they go beside the fire station.”

Committee members agreed that this could have a knock-on effect, if the boat was to be moored there.

Councillors also questioned whether the applicant failed to formally consult the Harbour Master and the Bude Canal Association regarding mooring the large vessel.

There were also concerns about people using the accommodation and parking their cars beside the boat.

Cllr Lea Deeley said: “I would also raise health and safety objections, as cars are only permitted to load into the areas shown. Also, there are always lots of kids and families that use that route, and the ice cream parlour is there as well.”

Cllr Peter La Broy added: “The red line on the proposal goes over the edge of the harbour which could be for tables and chairs.”

The committee proposed objection to the plan due to the effect on the working harbour. Concern was also raised about the loss of amenity space, and the red line on the applicant’s plan which is encompassing the harbour wall and pedestrian walkway. All councillors voted in favour.

The final decision is expected to be made by Cornwall Council’s planning committee.