To TDC:

•Dave Green, Planning Manager (1 copy)

•Lewis Andrews (5 copies for Officers)

•Rose Lock, Chair of Plans Committee (1 copy)

•Sarah Chappell, Conservation Officer (1 copy)

Dear X,

Publication of Winkleigh’s Village Design Statement

Winkleigh Parish Council are pleased to be able to forward a copy of the recently published Village Design Statement.

Following considerable research, an appraisal of the village and consultation with residents, the Village Design Statement summarises issues and design elements the community believe are important to consider, preserve or promote when considering new development proposals or planning applications in Winkleigh.

As the village inevitably expands, not only to accommodate its allocated housing provision, but also other emerging development proposals, the ‘Design Principles’ on page 23, provide a succinct reference for assessing aspects of any proposal that will impact the form, function or ‘feel’ of the village. Is it worth saying that we do not want to stifle innovative or interesting design, but aim to have new development that complements the village and successfully integrates with it.

The Village Design Statement was reviewed and well-received by TDC during the draft phase and whilst not part of a Neighbourhood Plan, this option is currently under review by the Parish Council, who believe it complies with the NPPF and emerging North Devon and Torridge Local Plan.

Along with the Parish Council’s formal Consultee Response on applications, we trust the Village Design Statement will be reported as a material planning considerationby Planning Officers presenting reports to Management and Plans Committees.

The Parish Council would also expect it to be drawn to the attention of prospective applicants at the pre-application or negotiation stages and to be used by Planning Officers using Delegated Powers. Where there are design issues associated with a planning proposal, the Village Design Statement can be used to reinforce existing NPPF and Local Plan policies.

Further, if the Design Principles could be considered as a ‘Constraint’on applications in Winkleigh, as has been suggested, as are constraints of being in the UNESCO Biosphere, Conservation Area or a SSSI, this would go some way to ensuring its implementation.

As a Local Centre and hub for surrounding villages, it is important that whilst we remain forward looking, we retain our sense of ‘distinctiveness’ and identity as a rural, Devonshire village - this can only be done through careful consideration, application and implementation of such ‘Design Principles’ when development proposals are approved. If you have any queries or wish to discuss anything about the Village Design Statement or development issues in Winkleigh, please do not hesitate to get in touch.

Yours sincerely,

Gail Flockhart

Chair, on behalf of Winkleigh Parish Council