Jobs and housing a priority in East Devon

Local Development Framework (LDF).

JOBS, housing and open spaces were the main themes highlighted during discussions over a planning blueprint for East Devon.

At the latest meeting of East Devon District Council’s LDF panel members looked at reports, which will help the council to deliver employment opportunities in the future.

The panel also heard from speakers on a range of topics including potential sites for additional housing such as affordable homes, and considered the need for a new public park at the western end of the district near the border with Exeter.

A draft report from EDDC’s Employment Strategy Task and Finish Forum set out objectives including building on developments in the west end to improve the number and variety of job opportunities in the District as well as providing support and training for small and medium sized businesses.

There were also a number of submissions from developers arguing that other parts of East Devon should be considered for development not only the growth point area.

The panel chairman, Mike Allen, said: “We fully understand the arguments that we should not focus on the west end to the exclusion of other parts of the district. The Draft Employment Strategy favours a district-wide approach.

“People can rest assured that the panel will take a holistic approach to meeting the housing and employment challenges we face. Members will ensure that any sites allocated should benefit the whole District.”

In addition to this there was also a report on the need for extra parkland to cater for the expected increase in population.

Members accepted recommendations for a district-wide Green Infrastructure Strategy. This would supplement the new Cranbrook Country Park that is to be part of the new community, where building is now under way.