Robert Jenrick grants permission for Wolborough Barton scheme against local opposition
Plans for a controversial 1,200-home settlement outside Newton Abbot in Devon have been given the green light by secretary of state Robert Jenrick, despite concerns raised over the impact of the development on nearby conservation areas.
The plans, drawn up by PCL Planning on behalf of the landowners, envisage the homes at Wolborough Barton be provided alongside a primary school, 12,560 m of employment floorspace, two care homes and other community facilities.
In allowing the appeal, Jenrick sided with the planning inspector who had concluded the scheme would not significantly impact the integrity of the nearby South Hams Special Area of Conservation, and recommended it be approved.
In particular, the inspector considered whether the proposal would harm the population of Greater Horseshoe Bats, one of the most endangered species in Europe, resident in the conservation area.
The scheme has generated significant local opposition, with 350 objections registered to it and a local opposition group, Newton Says No, having gained seats on the local council. While the appeal was lodged for non-determination by the local authority in July 2018, Teignbridge, the council did subsequently turn down the application unanimously.
In a statement Teignbridge Council said it will now work with the developers to ensure that all conditions and obligations associated with the planning permission are fulfilled, including the promise to deliver 20% affordable housing. The statement said: “We recognise that the planning inspector’s decision will disappoint the many people who opposed the application.”
Robert Jenrick’s decision comes amid continuing controversy over the permission he granted for the Westferry Printworks development in East London, which was overturned following a legal challenge last week.
Jenrick (pictured, left), was forced to admit “apparent bias” in his determination of the scheme, approving it against the advice of an inspector and in favour of a development firm owned by media mogul and former Tory donor Richard Desmond.
The decision also comes as Jenrick turned down an appeal by Meyer Homes for an 800-home scheme in Love Lane, Woolwich, South west London. Jenrick here agreed with the inspector’s findings that the proposal would have harmed the character and appearance of its immediate surroundings, and impacted upon the setting of the nearby Grade I-listed Royasl Brass Foundry and Grade II*-listed Royal Artillery Barracks.
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