We all know Sidmouth Road can be a tough pinch point as you come into Ottery St Mary, especially during busy periods, so the idea of putting 63 properties on land east of it near Gerway Close isn’t sensible by any means.
I’ve joined the other 468 local objections to this planning application which would put a heavy burden on this already busy and small road whilst increasing danger to pedestrians.
It’s not NIMBY to ask for planning applications to be sound, responsible and – most importantly – safe. Read my objection to the plans below:
Dear EDDC Planning,
I am writing to formally object to planning application 22/1973/MOUT, outline application with some matters reserved (access) for the residential development of up to 63 dwellings and associated infrastructure, on land east of Sidmouth Road in Ottery St Mary.
Although I am writing after the formal consultation period for this application has ended, I hope East Devon District Council can, at their discretion, take into account my objection and publish it on East Devon District Council’s planning portal.
I would like to object to this development on highways grounds – primarily, the poor visibility on the road as proposed – at a well-known pinch point – and possible danger to pedestrians. Under the applicants revised plans, the proposed pavement is narrow.
As is well documented in the objections to the application EDDC has received so far, it is feared that the pavement is not safe for pedestrians in such close confinement to large commercial vehicles. The narrowness of the proposed pavement also raises questions about accessibility for wheelchair users. The homes proposed will only lead to an increase in pedestrian traffic. Even with a priority system, it is likely that vehicles will meet each other within the single lane section and attempt to pass or will have to reverse to make way.
Sidmouth road and Tip Hill are already prone to heavy traffic, so it is difficult to understand why Highways recommend approval given this context and lack of proper mitigation measures from the applicant.
Kind regards,
Simon Jupp MP