Views sought on proposed new town near airport

Residents will be able to find out more about a proposed new town in east Devon at an open day.

East Devon District Council (EDDC) said it wanted to create "a self-sufficient and dynamic community with a distinctive character" to fulfil demand for housing.

Planners identified land to the south of Exeter Airport as the preferred location for the new community, which could eventually support up to 8,000 homes.

Nearly 65% of respondents to a council consultation last year opposed a new town, which would be the second to be built after the development at Cranbrook.

Councillor Todd Olive, the council's portfolio holder for strategic planning, said: "This new community is a key part of our strategy for delivering genuinely sustainable new homes.

"Large-scale development of this kind enables us to embed new jobs, local services, and green spaces – ensuring that we create a vibrant, sustainable new town that residents can be proud to call home.

"This drop-in event is an important opportunity for you to share your thoughts on the evolving masterplan, and to help shape what this new community will look like for decades to come."

The council is inviting residents to share their thoughts at the drop-in event at the Westpoint centre from 11:30-19:30 BST.

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