Public vote to decide name of proposed town

The 500-hectare site near Westpoint could help tackle housing demand, said a council

A district council has asked for help in naming a proposed new town in Devon.

The 500-hectare site near Westpoint could help tackle housing demand by creating about 8,000 homes, East Devon District Council said.

The council has set up a website allowing people to rank its shortlisted names - Newton Clyst, Marlcombe, Willowcrest and Clysthope - to help inform its final decision.

Naming the town before the development had been approved would give the district a "clear identity and shape the look and feel of the area as it grows", it said.

The council said the proposed names were related to the area's history, geography and the environment, as well as previous feedback.

Councillor Todd Olive said giving people the chance to vote on the town's name was a "unique opportunity to help shape the identity of a new community".

"The name we choose will reflect its roots in the local landscape and its aspirations for the future," he said.

"We're encouraging everyone with a connection to east Devon to have their say and be part of creating a lasting legacy from day one."

The deadline for responses is Tuesday 26 August.