DAWLISH Town Council has unanimously recommended refusal of plans for up to nine homes on the outskirts of the town, raising concerns over traffic, flooding, parking and the impact on wildlife.

The proposal at Shiverstone, on Lower Dawlish Water Road, would involve demolishing three existing buildings and replacing them with between five and nine residential properties.

At a recent meeting, the town council’s planning committee raised a series of concerns about the development, including the potential loss of utility services, the lack of mains sewage and the supply of fresh water and electricity.

Members also highlighted concerns over lighting, a lack of public transport connections and the impact on biodiversity.

The committee argued the development would be out of keeping with the area and could increase housing numbers by 30 per cent.

It recommended that a site visit should take place and surveys should be carried out to assess the impact on wildlife, including bats, before any application was approved.

The committee also resolved that the application should be called in to committee if the planning officer was minded to approve it.

The application, reference 26/01536/PIP, seeks permission in principle for the proposed housing scheme.

The homes would be restricted to use as primary residences, with this secured through a legal agreement.

Plans also include electric vehicle charging points, secure covered cycle storage, ecological enhancements and drainage improvements.

Documents submitted in support of the proposal state that the redevelopment would make more efficient use of the existing site, which currently comprises a yard and three buildings divided into several units.

The planning statement suggests the scheme could reduce vehicle trips, encourage more sustainable transport and improve the appearance of the site within its rural surroundings.

The application has been submitted through the Permission in Principle process, which provides an alternative route for housing-led schemes of between one and nine homes.

Teignbridge Council is expected to make a decision by November 3.

If permission in principle is granted, a separate Technical Details Consent would still be required before construction could begin.

To view the plans in full, and to comment on the application, visit Teignbridge Council’s planning portal and enter ‘26/01536/PIP’ into the search-box.