The Society objected to this application, predicated as it ostensibly appeared on the desire of the developer to generate a projected profit of almost £13 million rather than making any noticeable contribution to satisfying housing needs in Totnes, improving air quality, safeguarding the high street, or enhancing the natural and built environment both in and on the edge of the town.

Not only did the applicant now argue that it was financially impossible for them to provide a single affordable housing unit, let alone the minimum of 30% that a development on this scale would normally require, but the size of the boatyard was to be reduced and the continuing care retirement community removed. Various retail outlets and restaurant/cafés were also to be added. And the height and density of the buildings being proposed for the site were disproportionately excessive. All changes the applicant claimed were necessary in order to ensure economic viability.

Amongst our other concerns were the proximity of the the undercroft carpark and its many EV charging points to the waters of the Dart and the almost certain increase in congestion the development was likely to generate.

As a consequence, we argued, the proposal being put forward asked the LPA to ignore conflicts with policies in both the Totnes Neighbourhood Plan and the Plymouth and South West Devon Joint Local Plan, as well as the possible damage to the character of the town and its economy, simply to benefit the applicant.

You can download and read by clicking on the Our Objection link (warning: it's a large file!)