COUNCILLORS have ruled that a site visit must take place before they decide whether a toilet block should be built at Ottery St Mary's historic church.
East Devon District Council planning officers had recommended the plans, for the single storey extension at the Grade I listed church, be refused.
There are currently no toilet facilities at the church, which hosts many services and events, and limited facilities within walking distance.
The planning department noted the extension could cause harm to the historical and architectural interest of the building. However, town and district councillor Roger Giles said the application should be approved since, if done carefully, the benefit would outweigh the harm.