RESIDENTS and business are being encouraged to voice their opinions on how future development across Teignbridge will look.

A draft design guide, featuring everything from entire neighbourhoods to detailed designs, is aimed at ensuring new development is both attractive and interesting.

The draft, which has just been approved by planners, is now out for consultation.

The authority wants to hear views on the proposals for how new areas of development are to be designed and arranged, including the look of new buildings, green spaces and highway areas.

The guide provides a framework and reference point to achieve high quality development within the district based on the Local Plan policies and national planning policies. 

A key emphasis of the document is to encourage development that reinforces local character and distinctiveness.

The guide has important implications for people involved in the development process and as a material consideration for future planning applications, particularly for residential and employment schemes.

Cllr Humphrey Clemens, the council’s executive spokesman for planning and housing, said: ‘In delivering the Teignbridge Local Plan, it is very important to the council to hear what people think about the proposals before being considered for adoption later this year.

‘This is an opportunity for people to get involved, by giving their views to help shape the local area. 

‘The documents will form part of the statutory planning framework for Teignbridge and will guide future planning decisions, so they are important in helping to deliver the design and quality of development including homes, leisure facilities, roads and walking/cycling routes as well as green spaces and leisure areas we want in Teignbridge.

‘The planning team listen carefully to the views and comments of the local community when implementing changes to planning guidance.’

Anyone interested in the planning of the area and how development is provided is encouraged to read and comment on the appropriate documents. 

The consultation runs until Friday, March 9.