Work to build a community centre with a play park, multi-use games area and shops at the Redhayes development in Clyst Honiton can now begin.

Work to build a community centre with a play park, multi-use games area and shops at the Redhayes development in Clyst Honiton can now begin.

East Devon District Council (EDDC) gave the plans, which come as part of a wider housing development, the go ahead on Friday 23 July.

The proposals, which were approved with conditions, also included a public square and parking on the development at the Old Tithebarn Lane in Clyst Honiton.

Outline planning permission was originally granted for the area to be developed in 2013 – this included 930 dwellings, a new link road, employment area, park and ride facility, local centre/square, health and fitness centre, crèche, public and private open space car and cycle parking, together with landscaping.

This latest application means work can now start on the next phase of the project -  the local centre - which will comprise of a convenience store and cafe, community facility, healthcare facility and local centre square.

The convenience store and café will occupy the ground floor and the healthcare facility and community facility will be located on the first floor.

The building will be located on the junction of Tithebarn Link Road and Southern Mosshayne Link Road.

A public square with street furniture will then be built to the east of the local centre building with car parking to the south for 40 vehicles, plus two disabled user spaces. Cycle parking spaces is proposed in areas with good natural and/or CCTV surveillance. A pocket park will also be located in the north east section of the site.

The square and associated buildings will be followed by construction of a play park and multi-use games area The play area will have a focus upon natural play as well as integrating formal pieces of play equipment and multi-use games area will comprise of a tarmacadam-based area with a fence to act as an effective ball stop.

Cllr Eileen Wragg, East Devon District Council Planning Chair said:

The further addition of the Community Centre and play area moves the whole project towards becoming a sustainable and inclusive community and must be welcomed by residents of all ages.

I recall being on the Committee at Devon County when the pedestrian  bridge was granted permission in 2011, so it is very pleasing to be see the evolvement towards completion in the near future, and is a credit to all the Councils which have contributed towards a safe and happy environment.

Councillor Sarah Chamberlain, EDDC ward member for Broadclyst added:

I am so pleased that this much need area is now coming forward for the new community, making it much more sustainable.

It is fantastic to see these areas now start to have the facilities they will need as a community going forward, I am sure the local residents will welcome the local shops and play areas along with the new community centre.

Cllr Eleanor Rylance, an EDDC ward member for Broadclyst, said:

Development of houses should always bring positive change both for existing residents and for the new ones who will soon move in. I am pleased to see these firm plans made for a community centre and areas for children’s games- they will improve the lives of Clyst Honiton residents to accompany the development taking place.