72-home outline scheme at Land To The South Of Harepath Hill, Seaton

“Proposal: Outline application (approval sought for means of access) for residential development comprising of up to 72 dwellings, the formation of vehicular and pedestrian access from Harepath Road, public open space and other associated infrastructure…”

“The proposal seeks outline planning permission for up to 72 dwellings. Approval is sought now for the vehicular access point with all other matters being reserved for later approval.”

“The site is located on the northern edge of Seaton and is on land outside of the Built-Up Area Boundary (BUAB), and also within the Green Wedge.”

“The site is currently comprised of undeveloped fields, with intervening hedgerows and trees. It would bridge the gap from Colyford Road to Harepath Road and extend up Harepath Hill to the A3052. The site would abut existing residential development to the south.”

“In terms of benefits, the development would provide housing at a time that the Council cannot demonstrate a five-year housing land supply, and where the shortfall is significant. Furthermore, it would deliver 25% affordable housing (up to a maximum of 30.5 affordable homes) in an area where there is a need for 167 affordable homes and when affordable housing delivery across the District is behind target, in the context of a worsening affordability index.”

“Taking the above into consideration, the development would provide social benefits of significant weight. Biodiversity interests would be not only maintained but there would also be a net gain in biodiversity. While there would be some landscape harm the overall balance (considering the definition of sustainable development in the NPPF which stands on 3 pillars: economic, social and environmental) is positive and the development can therefore be said to be sustainable.”

“RESOLVED: The Shadow Habitat Regulations Assessment be adopted as EDDC’s Appropriate Assessment. Approved in accordance with officer recommendation subject to completion of S106 Agreement and; (i) Additional phasing condition as presented by the officer. (ii) Amend Condition 2 to add ‘for each phase’ at the end of the last sentence.”