A scheme for a new housing estate which could swell Teignmouth's population by up to 600 has taken another step forward.

Bovis Homes Ltd already has access consent to fields north of New Road, where it wants to build a mix of 135 homes.

Now permission is being sought for the appearance, landscaping, layout and scale of the development.

Ward councillor Sylvia Russell, who is also chairman of the Teignmouth Town Council planning committee, said there had been a lot of opposition to the development.

'Our MP Anne Marie Morris tried to persuade the secretary of state to call in the scheme to make the decision, but this was not accepted.

'It is not a completely done deal, however, because the Teignbridge development control committee will have to decide exactly how many homes can be built.

'I am sure there will be a lot of representations.'

She added: 'Many people were unhappy that such a large development would put an extra strain on the local infrastructure, especially roads and schools.

'The town council was against it, and we will consider the latest application when we receive it and forward our views to Teignbridge.'