PLANNING permission for what would have been a significant new housing development in Folly Gate has been turned down.

The reserved matters application — intended to confirm the finer details of the planned build — was refused by West Devon Borough Council's planning committee at its meeting on Tuesday.

In the council's report, the case officer stated 'the scheme is lacking in sufficient detail to adequately assess some aspects of the design'.

The report raised several concerns, stating that the proposal was 'overly suburban in form' and 'would be out of character with the context and alien in its surroundings'.

Folly Gate Parish Council said the build would 'provide no affordable housing, which is required in the area', and would lead to overdevelopment.

The parish council, like the borough council, also felt the project did not provide sufficient parking, and had safety concerns relating to pedestrians and the 40mph speed limit.

Seven letters of objection were received from members of the community, citing similar concerns.

The applicants can revise their plans and re-apply with another reserved matters application, but for now any development on the site are on hold.