Feniton prepares to do battle with developers... again!

Feniton residents and councillors have been left reeling following news that another two applications for more homes have been submitted to East Devon District Council.

Still clearing up after recent flooding and issues with sewage, the village is facing another battle with developers who hope to gain permission for up to 120 homes on land at Ottery Road.

The plans follow the recent green light from the Planning Inspector to allow 50 homes on land adjacent to Louvigny Close in the village. The Wainhomes development was refused by EDDC and campaigners and fought hard to try and prevent building.

Strategic Land Partnerships has submitted two applications, one is a resubmission for 120 homes and the other for 59 dwellings on the same piece of land.

News of the applications came just a day after various agencies, including South West Water, the Environment Agency, East Devon District Council, attended a flood surgery in the village on Monday, December 3rd.

Hundreds of concerned villagers turned up to share their concerns following the recent flooding in Feniton, which saw residents evacuated to the sports and social club after heavy rain flooded roads and homes.

Following the surgery Feniton Parish Council (FPC) held an open meeting to discuss a strategy to help those affected by flooding in the future. FPC told those in attendance that it hoped to recruit several volunteer flood wardens who could take responsibility for different areas of the village and could be called on to help during periods of heavy and prolonged rain.

As news of the new development plans was made public residents have rallied to make their voices heard. They commented that the village “had hoped for a respite over the Christmas period” but made it clear to Pulman’s View that they were not “too tired” to fight the plans.

Initially the period of consultation for the applications was due to end on Boxing Day, but following a request from Independent councillor Claire Wright, EDDC has agreed to extend the date to January 9th 2013.

In recent weeks MP Neil Parish has shown support to Feniton and recently wrote to the Government’s planning inspector Sir Michael Pitt to urge that “common sense” be used to stop the recently approved Wainhomes development. FPC chairman Martyn Smith told members of the public on Monday that the village was extremely grateful for his support in the battle with developers.

An extraordinary meeting to discuss the developments has been called by FPC and will be held at 7pm on Monday, December 17th at Feniton Primary School.