AM AFIFI, of Holcombe, writes: Driving home to Holcombe those past 22 years, I have often stopped on the skyline ridge to snatch glimpses of the wonderful panorama stretching from Torbay to Lyme Bay and also the Teign estuary and Dartmoor. I often wondered why Teignbridge Council did not create picnic areas complete with parking and toilet/wasroom facilities to allow for safe enjoyment of these views by locals and visitors. Now I read that the landowners of that area are suggesting such a park on the skyline as part of a proposal to build on their land, subject to the criteria set by Teignbridge that 60 per cent be developed into affordable housing. Proposers should supply details demonstrating that the housing will be well below the skyline and that the park will be properly planned to make best use of this unique viewpoint following topographical studies. Such a scheme should be seriously considered by all parties as it should benefit all involved, as well as the townspeople and visitors, provided it is properly handled, and that safeguards are built in to the agreement ensure that the skyline park is created within the timeframe of the housing development. Such promises of public facilities have been promised in the past but not been delivered by developers and councils. So, please, can Teignbridge and the developers get this one right?
