Possible historic finds could scupper potential housing sites in East Devon

ROMAN settlements are among the potential discoveries that could frustrate plans to build homes on a host of sites in East Devon.

- by BRADLEY GERRARD Local Democracy Reporter

Historical experts have called for archaeological digs to be conducted in Axminster, Seaton and other eastern parts of the district due to a range of possible significant finds.

Beyond the possibility of Roman settlements, experts from Historical England and Devon County Council want to investigate whether there are also neolithic settlements, an Iron Age farmstead, a Roman villa, road and fort and Second World War structures to be found across the sites.

While any discoveries would likely be welcomed by history fans, they could create a frustration for East Devon District Council, which is trying to plot where it can build homes between now and 2042.

This exercise is being conducted through its draft local plan, which has been subjected to a first round of public consultation earlier this year.