The site is located outside the defined settlement boundary for North Petherton, in a countryside location where development is strictly controlled. The proposed new dwelling is not associated with any agricultural or countryside need and offers no wider community benefit. The proposal is therefore contrary to Policies S1, S3 and P6 of the Core Strategy and current Guidance in the National Planning Policy Framework paragraphs 11, 14, 196 and 197.

The proposal fails to adequately address heritage issues relating to the former grade II listed 16th Century farmhouse building and its current listed status, the loss of the entirety of the historic fabric and also the failure to make an appropriate design response. The proposed dwelling is of a modern generic design, of a form and with modern features and detailing and materials which are not appropriate in this context resulting in the proposed dwelling appearing incongruous and out of keeping with the rural surroundings and detracting from the character of the area. In the absence of a high design quality that overrides the other material consideration the proposal is considered to be contrary to Policies D2, D17 and P6 of the Core Strategy and current Guidance in the National Planning Policy Framework paragraphs 56, 60, 61, 63, 65 and 128 - 136 inclusive and Planning Practice Guidance paragraphs 001, 004, 025, 027, 028. (Design) and 002, 003, 013, 014 and 017 (Conserving and enhancing the historic environment).