Jennifer Saunders and Adrian Edmondson caught in Dartmoor planning row

The Grade II listed secluded Devon home of comedians Jennifer Saunders and Adrian Edmondson is currently at the centre of a potential planning row over proposals to make changes to suit their 'current needs and lifestyles'.

The celebrity couple have owned their home within the Dartmoor National Park area for more than 30 years and are said to be now planning to spend more time there and less in London.

A public planning application was submitted in August for listed building consent for landscaping works and alterations to outbuildings which include creating a hobby pottery space. A final decision is yet to be made by the local planning authority but an official has argued there is 'insufficient justification and minimal public benefit' for the work.

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In her report, the building conservation officer Clare Vint said: "The interior and exterior of the building are of high significance architecturally, historically and archaeologically. As the application currently stands, the impact of the proposals on the significance of the listed building and their setting has not been minimised.

"There is also insufficient justification for the works and minimal public benefit."

The application has received no public objections or from the local parish council. No date has been given on the council's planning portal for when a decision on the application will be made.

The Design and Access Statement, prepared by O’Brien Van der Steen Workshops on behalf of Jennifer and Adrian, states how lifestyle changes have prompted the plans.

The statement said: "Jennifer and Adrian have lived at [redcated by DevonLive] for over 30 years. Their work has meant that the couple splits their time between London and Devon. However, Jennifer and Adrian anticipate in the coming years reducing the amount of time spent away from home in and living full time at [redacted by DevonLive].

"They wish to make some sensitive alterations to the existing outbuildings in order to better suit their current needs and lifestyles."

The proposed works include the extension of a workshop to form a hobby pottery space, landscaping to provide parking and turning space for vehicles with the formation of a new entrance, and the installation of sustainable energy solutions. Additional elements include the erection of a new oak frame garden pavilion and new paths and car parking using local materials.