PLANNING permission is being sought to turn a garage and an outbuilding at a local pub into two holiday units.

James and Sarah Parkinson of The Duck at Yeoford want to convert the garage into a double bedroom and “junior suite” and the outbuilding into a self-contained one-bedroom holiday studio.

They have also applied to replace the “degraded” low-pitch roofs with a durable waterproof membrane.

“The works are modest in scale and seek to reuse existing structures within the site in a manner that supports the ongoing viability of the pub and restaurant business,” planning documents say.

“The design approach focuses on conversion and reuse of existing rural buildings, ensuring their continued use while maintaining their character.

“The proposal involves internal reconfiguration only, with minimal external alteration.

“No demolition or rebuilding is proposed. Landscaping around the site will remain simple and rural in character, with planting to integrate and soften the development to make it aesthetically appealing.

“The proposed conversion does not introduce intrusive modern extensions or features that would detract from the building’s simple character.

“The proposed scheme is wholly consistent with these objectives and represents good conservation practice through adaptive reuse.

“The development will secure the ongoing preservation and appreciation of these buildings, ensuring it continues to contribute to be of benefit to the pub.

“Vehicle parking will utilise the existing pub car park, which provides ample parking capacity and has good access and visibility onto the public highway.

“The proposal represents a sensitive and appropriate conversion of existing ancillary buildings associated with the pub.

“The development will: preserve the character of the site, support the viability of a valued rural business, provide modest additional visitor accommodation, retain the rural setting and architectural character.

“Overall, the proposal is considered to represent a sympathetic and sustainable development appropriate for the site.”

The Duck at Yeoford was originally a railway hotel before becoming known as The Mare and Foal.

In 2018, the pub was bought and renovated by the current owners, reopening in 2019 as The Duck at Yeoford.

It was listed as one of Britain's 100 Best Pubs in 2025 in The Good Food Guide, and it won Best Takeaway 2025/26 at the Food Drink Devon Awards. It has won many other awards, including Tripadvisor Traveler’s Choice 2023 and was winner of the Muddy Stilettos Best Destination Pub award in 2023.

Find out about planning applications that affect you by visiting the Public Notice Portal.

You can see the application on Mid Devon District Council’s website under reference 26/00412/FULL.