Plans to transform 12 acres of Sid Valley countryside in to a business park will be handled ‘diligently and sensitively’, the leader of East Devon District Council has said.

Councillor Paul Diviani acknowledged that there would ‘undoubtedly be challenges ahead’ in developing the Sidford site, but promised to ‘work with partners to ensure that new jobs and investment can be secured’.

He said: “The future for Sidmouth in terms of employment is looking considerably brighter and this council looks forward to doing everything it possibly can to help support new enterprises looking to help build the local economy.”

His comments come after Planning Inspector Anthony Thickett ruled the controversial proposals should be included in the East Devon Local Plan, a blueprint for future homes and jobs in the district.

The 12-acre site, between Sidford and Sidbury, had previously been removed from the document following a last-ditch bid by Sid Valley councillors.

However it was revealed this week that Mr Thickett had pulled rank and overturned the decision, ruling that the proposed allocation was sound and in the public interest.

More on the Sidford business park in this Friday’s Herald.