AN application to build 25 houses and flats in Spreyton has been given the go ahead by planners at West Devon Borough Council — despite claims that 85% of village residents are opposed to the scheme.

The development, on land to the north of Meadow Rise, on the Spreyton to Bow road, will comprise two one bedroomed flats, one two bedroomed flat, three two bedroomed houses, ten three bedroomed houses and nine four bedroomed flats.

Martin Heath, representing residents who object to the development, told the planning committee at Tuesday's meeting in Hatherleigh: 'I am speaking for all those who are against this development going ahead. That is 85% of the village.

'Many people are concerned of the rising size of the village and are shocked at the planning outline.

'The scale and density of the village are our main concerns and the carbon footprint.

'Spreyton will increase approximately one third in size. The development will be completely out of character with the rest of the village and it is certainly not sustainable.

'If this is a sustainable development, then I can live on the moon without a space suit.'

The committee heard there had been 35 letters of objection to the application, many concerned that the infrastructure of the village could not support such a large development.

But the applicant for the site, Dr Ruth Endacott, told the committee: 'Spreyton is a very special place and the new houses would be very much in keeping with the village.

'This development has been designed to bridge the gap between the expensive properties in the village and the affordable housing.

'It will provide more sustainability for the village, and the amenities which have diminished over time are more likely to be regained if there are more people in the village.'

The proposed development includes 56 parking spaces and 20 for cyclists, with associated estate roads, a large open space to create a village green and a SUDS scheme that recycles rain water.

Ward member for Okehampton West, Cllr John Young, said he was concerned about the lack of facilities for young children who may wish to play outside.

Cllr Young said he felt there needed to be a designated play area in the open space, which will create the village green for residents.

The committee heard in planning terms, the layout of the scheme was 'well thought out', and there was adequate open space for the development.

The application was passed subject to imposition of a Section 106 agreement including provision of £12,000 towards community facilities, a landscaping scheme and completion of drainage assessment reports.