This historic Devon village have won acclaim for their sustainability efforts. Like the Winkleigh Neighbourhood Plan (adopted 2 August 2021) the community is being proactive. This plan gives residents a stake in local development. Ensuring that it supports and maintains their vision for an economically viable and inclusive community.
Community-Driven Planning
The Neighbourhood Plan took four years to develop and involved extensive consultation with local residents. Over 90% of the voters backed the plan in a referendum on June 17, 2021, indicating strong local support. The plan highlights the importance of safeguarding Winkleigh’s unique natural surroundings. Setting out the location and nature of any new housing provision, expansion of businesses and improvements to traffic and transport access throughout the village.
Development vs Sustainability: The Balancing Act
However, balancing development and sustainability goals has proven to be a challenge since the plan’s adoption. The proposal for 71 new homes in Winkleigh was approved by Torridge District Council in March 2024. Although the development contains a variety of housing types and amenities like a village car park and footpaths. There were concerns raised over the urban design of the development and whether it is in keeping with the vision promoted in the Neighbourhood Plan. Critics say the development’s typical design isn’t in keeping with the village’s character. That the developers didn’t do enough to engage the community in the planning stage.
Keep scrolling down for more INFORMATION Saving history and the environment
We talk from personal experience of Winkleigh’s long, rich and varied history, the need to preserve our historic buildings for the future, and to retain our local heritage from landmarks such as Croft Castle and Court Castle. The village is located within the transition zone of the UNESCO North Devon Biosphere Reserve, a so-called ‘living laboratory’ for sustainable development. The Neighbourhood Plan hopes to maintain these historic and environmental features while facilitating controlled growth.
Looking Ahead
As Winkleigh grows and develops, the community is committed to shaping its future. The Neighbourhood Plan is a reflection of the villagers’ sustainability and ability to effect the future. It shall take continued communication between the villagers, developers and councilors to guarantee that the forthcoming developments maintain the village’s long-term vision and character.
All in all, Winkleigh is an example to other communities seeking to combine development with sustainability. With active involvement and a focused plan, the village is well prepared to continue experiencing the dual impact of change while ensuring its culture and environment for generations to come.
