Campaigners 'we want to know why landfill decision keeps being delayed'
Opponents of a controversial landfill site held a 'countryside walk' at the time the planning meeting was originally scheduled for
Last updated 6th Feb 2025
Campaigners against a landfill at Lower Brenton Farm - near to the famous organge elephant on the M5 - have staged a 'countryside walk' to highlight the land being lost if plans go-ahead.
They gathered at the same time a decision on the planning application had been expected - before the decision was deffered by Devon County Council.
The plans, which have seen a 3,000 strong petition against them, were recomended to be refused.
Mike Elliott, a spokesperson for the campaign group fighting the plans, said: "The closing comment in that report stated this planning application, which follows a previous proposal that was withdrawn by the applicant, has been through extensive consultation and two requests for additional information.
"It is not anticipated that an acceptable scheme could be negotiated through amendments to the current proposals, and deferral of a decision is therefore not considered to be an appropriate option.”
He added: "District and parish councillors, as well as local residents that have campaigned against this proposed development for over three years, were shocked and angered by the last-minute turnaround, and are demanding clarification as to how and why this decision was made.
"Those of us that had rearranged plans or taken time off work to attend the meeting will now meet at the same time - Wednesday, 5th February at 2pm - to walk the very footpaths that would be ruined by the proposed landfill."
A spokesperson for Devon County Council said: "Determination of the application has been deferred following a request by the applicant to submit further information, The application will now be determined at the meeting on April 2."