Plans for 450 homes near Barnstaple

North Devon planners to discuss scheme

A scheme for up to 450 homes near Barnstaple will be considered by North Devon planners next week with a recommendation for approval.

More than 120 comments opposing the plans for land at Brynsworthy have been submitted to North Devon Council.

Wessex Strategic Ltd has resubmitted a proposal which the planning committee refused two years ago because it was outside the development boundary.

Councillors will be asked to take a fresh look in light of new housing targets and a lack of  housing land in its local plan. The scheme includes 30 per cent of affordable homes and space for a convenience store and community space.

Opponents have raised issues about the stretch on schools, health facilities and public transport from the new homes as well as inadequate roads and they say the affordable element should be greater.

The site is to the south of the A39 and comprises some 26 hectares of agricultural land.

North Devon’s planning officers said the adverse impacts were not considered to outweigh the substantial public benefits of homes, economic activity and community infrastructure and have recommended that councillors approve it.

New national policies mean the  pressure is on for planning authorities to approve housing developments they previously dismissed if they are in sustainable areas near shops and services.

North Devon’s Council’s planning committee will discuss the scheme at a meeting next Wednesday (April 1).