Council Postpones Decision on Major Housing Development

A council has postponed a decision regarding proposals for over 1,200 residences, a school, and a health facility in Devon, citing the need for additional details. During a Monday meeting of Teignbridge District Council’s planning committee, developers sought authorization to establish open public areas as part of the Wolborough Barton project, situated close to Newton Abbot. According to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, Vistry Homes sought approval for the open space component of the development, alongside drainage systems and other infrastructure elements on a section of the property. Committee members expressed reservations concerning site access and drainage, opting to postpone a resolution until further particulars were supplied. Council officials indicated that the objections presented could be resolved through the implementation of stringent conditions on the proposed construction. The comprehensive Wolborough Barton project, which received approval from a planning inspector in 2021, envisions the construction of 1,210 new residences between Decoy and Ogwell. While developers asserted the scheme would deliver badly needed new homes, opponents contended it represented overdevelopment and would destroy open countryside. Darren Summerfield, representing Vistry, stated that the designated open spaces would result in “enhanced habitats for wildlife”. Councillor Jane Taylor of Kerswell-with-Combe voiced apprehension regarding the placement of a play area and issues concerning site access from Coach Road. She further noted that councillors personally observed the traffic problems first hand during an inspection of the site. Bushell councillor Jackie Hook requested additional details to alleviate worries about surface water run-offs originating from the construction area. The committee members cast a vote, with a clear majority supporting the postponement of a decision. The overall project encompasses residential units, a new primary school, land for employment, and community amenities such as a day nursery and a health centre. It also includes plans for a local shopping center, a play area, allotments, a multi-use games area, and a connecting road between the A380 and the A381. Full planning approval has previously been granted for the conversion of the Wolborough Barton farmhouse into a boutique hotel, restaurant, and bar.