New Neighbourhood Plan set to bring more homes and infrastructure improvements to Clyst St Mary

After receiving strong backing from local residents, a new Neighbourhood Plan for Bishops Clyst has been formally adopted by East Devon District Council.

Over 80% of referendum voters supported the Bishops Clyst Neighbourhood Plan, which replaces the 2017 version for the area. Now part of the area’s development plan, the framework will work with the East Devon Local Plan to determine planning applications in the Bishops Clyst Neighbourhood Area, covering the parishes of Clyst St Mary and Sowton.

Developed over several years by Bishops Clyst Parish Council and local volunteers, the plan reflects extensive consultation and engagement with residents and stakeholders, followed by an independent examination.

Despite its proximity to Exeter and the busy A3052, Bishops Clyst retains a largely rural character. The Neighbourhood Plan aims to protect this rural feel, while carefully managing future growth to 2042. It makes provision for:

• At least 72 new homes.
• Improvements to walking, cycling and road networks, helping to support active travel and ease traffic in Clyst St Mary village centre.

In total, the plan includes 20 policies that set out how development will be managed in the area, covering:

• The natural environment and countryside.
• The built environment and design.
• Housing development.
• Community facilities and services.
• Business and jobs.
• Travel and transport.
• Sport and recreation.

The plan will now carry full weight in planning decisions, ensuring that local priorities continue to shape the future of the area. It will also mean Bishops Clyst Parish Council continues to receive an enhanced share of Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) funds from local development.

Councillor Todd Olive, Portfolio Holder Place, Infrastructure and Strategic Planning, East Devon District Council, said: “This is a fantastic example of a local community coming together to plan for its future. The Bishops Clyst Neighbourhood Plan shows what can be achieved when residents, volunteers, and the district council and parish council work together to balance growth with protecting what makes their area special. We are pleased to adopt this updated plan and look forward to seeing its positive impact over the coming years. We also hope that other communities will be inspired by this strong community involvement and consider reviewing and shaping versions of their own neighbourhood plans in the future.”