Decision on 1,200 homes delayed by council

Part of the area earmarked for the Wolborough Barton scheme at Newton Abbot

The latest plans to build more than 1,200 homes, a school and a health centre in Devon have been delayed after councillors called for more information.

Developers had asked for permission to create open public space as part of the Wolborough Barton scheme, near Newton Abbot, at a meeting of Teignbridge District Council's planning committee on Monday.

Vistry Homes had wanted approval for the open space element of the scheme, along with draining and other pieces of infrastructure on part of the site, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said.

Members said they had concerns over access and drainage, deferring a decision until they were provided with more information.

'Enhanced habitats'

Council officers said objections raised could be addressed by imposing strict conditions on the development.

The overall Wolborough Barton scheme, which was approved by a planning inspector in 2021, would see 1,210 new homes built between Decoy and Ogwell.

Developers said it would bring badly needed new homes, but objectors argued it was overdevelopment and would destroy open countryside.

Speaking on behalf of Vistry, Darren Summerfield said the open spaces would mean "enhanced habitats for wildlife".

Traffic problems

Kerswell-with-Combe councillor Jane Taylor said she had concerns about the location of a play area as well as worries over access to the site from Coach Road.

She said councillors had experienced the traffic problems first hand during a site visit.

Bushell councillor Jackie Hook called for more information to address concerns over surface water run-offs from the building site.

Committee members voted by a clear majority to defer a decision.

In total, the scheme provides homes, a new primary school, employment land and community facilities including a day nursery and a health centre.

There will be a local shopping centre, play area, allotments and a multi-use games area, as well as a link road connecting the A380 and the A381.

Full planning permission has already been given to convert the Wolborough Barton farmhouse into a boutique hotel, restaurant and bar.