THANK you for your report, from the West Devon Local Plan Inquiry (March 13) about the greenfield site east of the Priory in Whitchurch. West Devon Council rejected the proposed development in the final draft Plan.
The hearing you report dealt with the issues raised by the landowners and your article accordingly dwells on housing density. The Plan draws on Government guidance (PPG 3) in many areas in addition to housing density.
That guidance addresses flooding hazards in the context of global warming, more development of brownfield sites, and conserving biodiversity.
The rejected development is on steep ground in the Tiddybrook catchment. Those who live in Bishopsmead or elsewhere adjacent to the water course have past experience of flooding and vigorously endorse the wisdom of Government guidance about flood hazards. The area is also a greenfield site rich in wildlife.
There are other issues but of particular concern to those who use the Whitchurch Road would be the impact of another 100 cars regularly pouring out of a new development directly into this congested roadway. The decision not to develop the land east of the Priory is correct.
Commander A D Johnson RN
11 Newtake Road
Whitchurch