Planners have been urged to avoid making the same mistake twice ahead of a vital decision on a major 72-homes scheme in an East Devon town.
Baker Estates is bidding for permission to construct up to 72 homes on land south of Harepath Hill, in Seaton.
The site is virtually opposite a vast forthcoming scheme for up to 130 homes, which has essentially secured outline planning permission and is just waiting for final paperwork to be signed off.
“Firstly we would like to express our feelings at the appalling way the Seaton Baker Estates application was handled by the council a few months ago,” Colyford Parish Council said in its written objection.
“Please consider this application professionally and not be led to change your mind by your proper officers again
“We INSIST that you make a site visit this time, if only to witness what you have already given permission to destroy. Please do not add to your previous mistakes. I’m sorry but we feel very strongly about this.”
The parish also cited pressure on services, such as schools and the doctor’s, fears for nearby bats, which are understood to use the land being proposed for development as a feeding ground, and concerns that a lack of nearby shops will mean most if not all prospective residents will have to drive.
Even though East Devon District Council planners acknowledge it “intrudes the green wedge”, which is land that is supposed to be kept clear to avoid two conurbations coalescing, and that the site is outside the area where development is usually deemed acceptable, it is being recommended for approval with conditions.
The council, like others, is under pressure to build homes, and East Devon is behind its five-year supply target
It also said this scheme would be 25 per cent affordable homes – equivalent to 18 homes – a helpful boost when the area needs 167 affordable homes.
East Devon’s planning committee will discuss the application on Tuesday (27 January).
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