A FAMILY committed to taking action to combat the effects of global warming was refused a change of use application for the siting of a mobile home. Mr D Osbiston and Ms S Spencer want the mobile home at Wormhill Ley, North Bovey, in connection with their existing permaculture project. Mr Osbiston told Dartmoor National Park Authority Development Control Committee on Friday that there were some plans that should be allowed because they brought global environment benefits. He said it was pioneering true sustainability. 'We ask you to give us the opportunity to create this lifestyle,' he said, inviting members to hold a site visit so the pioneering project could be explained. In a report to the committee, in which officers recommended refusal, it was pointed out that the applicants had carried out extensive tree-planting and laid out a fenced growing area. A modern, open-fronted storage shed is on the western side of the site, along with a small touring caravan and several temporary structures. The growing area is used for the production of vegetable and salad crops and to enclose a number of chickens and ducks. Future plans indicated intentions to build a low impact house, three linked greenhouses, a pumpkin hut and another toolshed/workshop. There were a number of representations in support, but, in a report, the agricultural consultant said that while the commitment to the project was not in doubt, it did not satisfy the necessary tests. Julian Brazil said he thought it was innovative and the way forward. He believed the authority should back it provided there were strict conditions. Agreeing, John Elson said they were admirable ideas and objectives and he considered they should be examined, while Sally Morgan believed it should be encouraged. 'I would first of all like to see it on a temporary basis so that it could be monitored,' she stated. But John Shears said the authority had employed an agricultural consultant and members should take note of his assessment. 'I think he is absolutely right,' he said. The deputy chairman, Maurice Retallick, said the business was not sufficiently expanded to warrant someone on site in full-time residence.