CREDITON Hamlets Parish Council, at its meeting on Monday, November 6, heard representations from members of the public about the outline planning application for the erection of up to 120 dwellings, public open space, vehicular access and associated infrastructure at Chapel Downs Farm (Planning Application 17/01511).

The council had already responded to this application and resolved to be neutral but expressed a number of concerns about the application.

During the meeting, held at the Council Chamber, Market Street, Crediton, the council heard from members of the public who object to the application, which had been submitted by Barrett Homes.

The council resolved that it remained neutral in respect of this application but said it would add to its previous comments because of particular concern was the increased volume of traffic from the proposed development site, which would significantly exacerbate the problems at pinch-points in the road particularly at the Forches Cross Junction, Alexander Road junction and at the bottom of Jockey Hill.

Councillors agreed that any increased development north of Crediton should contribute to road widening at these points.

Councillors said that the Open Space Contribution from this development should be used to create a play park on the site for use by new residents and children in the existing area.

The council was pleased to have Jenny Clifford, Mid Devon District Council’s Head of Planning in attendance to respond to a number of planning questions raised by the Parish Council.

Mrs Clifford gave responses to the questions that had been submitted and to several supplementary questions.

She undertook to provide further answers in writing. The chairman thanked Mrs Clifford for her attendance and assistance.

PLANNING

The council resolved to support Planning Application 17/01606, the erection of a two storey extension to rear and first floor extension over garage and enlarged driveway at 20 Westernlea.

The council resolved to object to Planning Application 17/01638, the erection of a single storey extension on east elevation at Beare Loft, Crediton. The council said that this application sought to increase the footprint again to obtain a building similar to the size that was originally rejected.

Councillors understood that Planning Policy does not allow for new build houses in open countryside without an agricultural need.

Councillors wished the development to reflect the size of the original traditional building that was granted permission according to Planning Policy.

The council discussed the lease and insurance for the Yeoford Play Area and resolved that the clerk should seek advice from MDDC about whether the Play Area has to be run by a public body or whether it could be run by Yeoford Community Association which own the land and the equipment.

POLICE REPORT

The council received the following Police Report on crimes and incidents in the parish: one x send threatening letter, three x theft and one x attempted burglary at Punchbowl Recycling Centre, one x send offensive communication, four x theft – two at Tesco, Wellparks and two other incidents, one x aggravated vehicle taking A377, one x theft of motor vehicle, one x driver above drink/drive limit, one x blackmail, one x common assault, Wellparks and one x burglary with intent to steal.

The following incidents had been reported: road related offence, broken down vehicle at Barnstaple Cross, personal ASB (anti-social behaviour), altercation with driver, road works interrupted by parked vehicle at Yeoford, lights in field – suspicious activity, mud on road, stolen vehicle located, two x concern for welfare and violent disturbance.

Cllr Cole reported that he had repaired the noticeboard at Westernlea. Cllr Price reported that he had received a complaint about advertising on the parish council side of the noticeboard.

Cllr Coren reported that he had repaired the Woodland Head signpost and that the Binneford signpost was progressing.

Cllr Coren said there was no progress re the flooding at West Studham. Cllr Way requested that the parish report potholes directly on the Devon County Council “Report a Problem” website.

The draft minutes of Crediton Hamlets Parish Council are available on three noticeboards within the parish: Hookway, Westernlea and Yeoford. The minutes and other information about the council is available on the Crediton Hamlets Parish Council website: http://www.creditonhamlets.org.uk/ .

If you have any comments or queries the clerk, Diane Shepherd can be contacted on 01363 85051 or email: [email protected] .

Diane Shepherd