A report into the benefits of new homes in the region says 480 homes started in 2014 would support 2,064 jobs and contribute £771,000 towards education provision.

In addition, it means 110 of those properties would be affordable.

The total number would bring in £10.6 million to local authorities for further provision of new affordable homes, generate £4.8 million in tax contributions and result in the planting of 20,640 trees.

The figures are contained in a new report by the Home Builders’ Federation which shows for the first time the full extent of the contributions builders provide as a result of building new homes in the south west.

Across Devon, 3,960 homes were started last year, supporting more than 17,000 jobs contributing £87.6 million to the local authorities for more affordable homes and £6.3 million towards education.

In addition 170,000 trees would be planted.

Stewart Baseley, executive chairman at HBF, commented: ‘House building makes a huge, but largely hidden, social economic contribution to Teignbridge.

‘While housing output in the south west has increased, we are still not delivering anywhere near what is needed nationally.

‘As well as delivering desperately needed new homes, increasing housing supply would provide significant additional benefits for everyone through additional jobs, investment in infrastructure and facilities for communities.

‘People often don’t realise that the new community centre, school or sports facilities have been funded directly as a result of housing developments.’

He added: ‘Ultimately, providing new homes for people also means better facilities for the wider community.

‘These are the very things that turn a collection of houses into communities, brand new places where people want to live.’