A controversial retirement complex on the outskirts of Bovey Tracey should go ahead according to district planners, despite widespread opposition from residents and the town council.

Council officials said finding enough land on which to build new homes was more important than the wishes of residents wanting to protect open fields on the edge of town.

Archstone Lifestyle Homes wants to build the 24 retirement properties for the over-55s and a 50-bed nursing home on two acres of pasture bordered by Moretonhampstead Road, Southbrook Lane and Monks Way.<

FULL STORY IN OUR ONLINE EDITION