Have your say on future developments in the East Devon Local Plan consultation

Have your say on how many homes need to be built and where in East Devon, sharing your views on a new draft Local Plan.

A ten-week consultation seeking residents' views on specific sites for development was launched on Monday, 7 November by East Devon District Council (EDDC).

The document sets out how EDDC intends to meet housing targets, to meet the needs of local residents and ensure new homes are net zero carbon, ensuring they are more efficient and cheaper to run.

The draft plan also outlines how the district addresses the climate change emergency, how and where new jobs should be created, how town centres should be supported and how the district can protect build heritage and the natural environment.

A number of public exhibitions will be held across East Devon allowing residents to find out more and ask questions about the draft Local Plan.

The Local Plan is the key document used in making planning decisions in East Devon so it is vital that people have their say on proposals now.

Waiting for a planning application to be submitted near you home could mean that it is too late for your views to change things.

Everyone who lives, works and spends time in the district has been asked to share their views about the future of the district as part of consultation which will close on 15 January 2023.

An EDDC spokesperson said:  "It is so important that people look at this consultation and tell us what they think.

"The future planning of East Devon is something that will really impact on all our lives for years to come.

"Unfortunately, people often only get interested in planning issues when a specific development directly affects them, but this plan will affect us all and how we as a community respond to key issues like climate change and housing our residents.

"This is a key consultation and your chance to tell us how we should shape communities up and down East Devon, please use it."

The consultation can be viewed online at https://eastdevonlocalplan.commonplace.is/ 

The feedback EDDC receives on this draft plan will be used to help inform and refine the council’s thinking as the local plan is progressed.

In just over a year’s time, it is hoped a final version of the plan will be ready – having been shaped by the public’s comments and consultations before being subject to an examination by a Government appointed planning inspector.