THE Secretary of State for environment, food and rural affairs, Michael Gove MP, recently visited the new Stannary Gardens development in Chagford, which includes affordable housing.

Mr Gove was joined by Central Devon MP Mel Stride, Chagford Parish Council chair Gay Hill and Dartmoor National Park chief executive Kevin Bishop.

‘This is the largest ever new development in Dartmoor National Park and a significant addition to the town,’ said Mr Stride.

‘What makes it particularly special is the way in which this scheme has been developed with significant local community support right from the start. The design was generated out of local discussions rather than the plan being decided in advance and then consulted upon.

‘This “bottom up” approach is powerful – we badly need affordable development within our villages and smaller communities where sensitivities are often at their greatest.

‘I am grateful to the Secretary of State for spending time with us locally – he is keen to ensure that we get Brexit right for our rural communities and I will continue to work with him in our interests.’

Prior to visiting the development Mr Stride and Mr Gove attended the 117th Chagford Show to discuss a range of farming issues, including the future of the industry post-Brexit.