Preferred location of new Devon town to be discussed

The council says a second new town is needed to meet housing targets

The location of a second new town east of Exeter is to be decided by East Devon District Council (EDDC) planners.

Members of the Strategic Planning Committee will consider three possible locations for the development.

Councillors previously agreed that a new community was needed in the area to meet government housing targets.

Nearly 65% of respondents to a consultation opposed a new town, which would be the second to be built after the development at Cranbrook.

Members of the committee will discuss residents' feedback from the Draft Local Plan consultation, that closed in January.

The council said it was hoping to balance housing targets and address residents' concerns.

Councillor Olly Davey, EDDC's portfolio holder for strategic planning, said: "While we recognise the lack of enthusiasm among east Devon residents for another new community, it would be irresponsible of the committee not to explore this option to meet government housing targets, which otherwise will put further pressure on our existing settlements, whose infrastructure is already overstretched."

EDDC's preferred location for the new town involves land between the A3052 and A30, to the west of Farringdon village and east of Westpoint.

A second option would be on land north east of Clyst St George.

A third location, east of Crealy Theme Park, has already been deemed "less acceptable", the council said.

The next stage of consultation is planned to take place towards the end of 2024.