Developer’s ‘brave’ vision to regenerate area

A ‘brave’ vision for the long-awaited regeneration of Ottery’s derelict factory site has won the backing of the town council.

Plans for a 33-home development of the now-demolished factory - and eight houses on land opposite - were praised for allowing parking for existing Victoria Terrace residents, as well as new occupants.

Now under the ownership of Acorn Property Group, the development of the Mill Street site has been plagued with delays and is currently a frequent target for vandals.

Speaking at an Ottery Town Council planning meeting last week, mayor Glyn Dobson said: “I think people just want to see something done there.”

Designs proposed for the road-side properties will be in keeping with existing houses in the vicinity, while the river-facing apartments will have a more modern, ‘wharf style’ appearance.

Councillor Paul Bartlett described it as a ‘brave’ design overall.

The application includes provision of 91 parking spaces – 78 for new homes, one visitor space and 12 allocated for the use of Victoria Terrace residents - who have historically parked on some of the land.

Cllr Ian Holmes explained the developer is proposing to offer the 12 additional spaces to East Devon District Council initially – with the option to charge for parking. If they are not wanted by the authority, the town council will have the option to take them on and, finally, they could be offered directly to householders.

Cllr Paul Carter said: “They are looking out for residents we already have in Victoria Terrace. The layout is encouraging. It might be brave, but we should encourage that – we want to be Ottery up and coming.”

Cllr Roger Giles questioned whether the parking provision is adequate for the number of homes proposed.

Members unanimously voted to support the plans.

There will be a separate planning application for the listed Switchgear building.