Stuart Hughes’ ‘Hughes Report’ blog says that he has proposed an amendment to the Local Plan, seconded by Graham Troman. It refers to moving the employment allocation to north of the A3052, and designating the land between Sidford and Sidbury as a Green Wedge.

However, Cllrs Hughes and Troman, both representing Sidmouth, do not state how big they think the new site should be, nor precisely where it should be located. Presumably they want to leave those crucial matters for the Development Management Committee (DMC) to decide. At least two other Sidmouth representatives, Town and District Cllr Peter Sullivan, and Town Councillor Ian Barlow (owner of one potential new site), are likely to give some input when the DMC meets next Monday.

The DMC vote will probably be close, as it was with the Knowle application. This could be an ideal opportunity for the Committee to prove that it is independent-minded.

A large public presence at the meeting on Monday 23rd March, starting at 10a.m. in the Knowle Council Chamber, would doubtless be appreciated.