Row over lack of local plan consultation and about new development in town

HUNDREDS of people signed a petition against housing on the outskirts of Brixham when campaigners took to the streets of the town at the weekend.

- by GUY HENDERSON Local Democracy Reporter @[e-mail]

Members of the Save Brixham's Green Spaces social media group were among those taking part in the demonstration to raise awareness of the potential for development at Monksbridge on the main road leading in and out of Brixham.

Developer Monksbridge Park Ltd plans to file a planning application in the coming weeks for 175 homes in the fields alongside the junction and skate park at Monksbridge.

It says the land is currently unused and has no public access, and homes there will help to meet Torbay's housing needs. The company says it will consider all comments made by the public after it published its plans online, and make any necessary changes before submitting an out-

line application to Torbay Council.

An area will be earmarked for local shops, a gym, a hotel, a cafe or 'hot food offerings. Details will be announced later, but the developer says jobs will be created.

Opponents, however, say the fields are one of the town's last green spaces and should remain that way.