by Alan Quick

CREDITON and A377 road users face more congestion with plans to build an additional 100 houses at Copplestone, say members of Copplestone Residents Action Group.

Mid Devon District Council’s planning officer has recommended approval on the plan for 60 homes on farmland at Dulings, Copplestone, in addition to 40 planned for already allocated land elsewhere in the village.

The action group says the decision is "controversial" and "it is despite significant local opposition, and residents are now preparing to take the fight directly to the planning committee."

Mid Devon District Council’s Full Planning Committee will make a decision on the application on Wednesday, January 4.

The start time will be 2.15pm at Phoenix House, Phoenix Lane, Tiverton EX16 6PP. This will be a public meeting.

Representatives from Copplestone Residents Action Group will be asking questions and a nominated speaker will ask the Planning Committee to refuse this application.

Copplestone Parish Council will also be putting forward a case for refusal.

A spokesperson for Copplestone Residents Action Group, appealing to local residents, said: "At the January 4 planning meeting community presence is very important and significant; it demonstrates community backing and the extent to which we oppose the application.

"Therefore, we please ask as many of you to attend as possible. Your presence would be greatly appreciated.

"We recognise that because of the timing and location this may be difficult, however we will arrange car sharing from the village and there is all-day parking next to Phoenix House for only £2."

For further details, either join the Facebook Group, "Campaign: Stop Building of Houses at Dulings Farm, Copplestone" at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2166471866910645/  or to receive regular email updates, please join the petition at: https://www.change.org/p/mid-devon-council-copplestone-stop-more-houses-at-dulings-farm or by Google searching "change.org Dulings Farm".

• See story: Fight against new homes at Copplestone moves up a gear.