Council will toughen policies after controversial planning decision vote

EXTRA rules to better clarify how planning decisions should be made are set to be drafted by a council following the controversial approval for a scheme of up to 130 homes.

- by BRADLEY GERRARD Local Democracy Reporter

Some people at East Devon District Council's planning meeting in February were confused and angry when the outline scheme on land next to Harepath Road in Seaton was waved through.

The discontent was caused by the committee's chair, Councillor Olly Davey, seemingly switching his vote from refusal to approval after planning officers queried the strength of his reasons for potentially rejecting the proposal.

The council acknowledged it had put that decision - which led to the scheme being given the go-ahead - under review just days later, but last week stated the actions taken were legal.

However, after questions were raised at the latest meeting on Tuesday, May 13, by vice-chair Cllr Matt Hall the council conceded clearer policies and procedures would be needed to help avoid a similar situation in the future.