New homes on the site of former care facilities in Exmouth have been approved by district planners.

The proposal is for 36 homes, 18 of which will be classed as affordable, on the site of Exebank and Danby House in Mudbank Lane. East Devon District Council’s (EDDC) development management committee voted to approve the scheme, following supportive comments from two Halsdon ward councillors.

Councillor Pauline Stott said: “I would like to support this whole-heartedly. This is our last piece of land in Halsdon for affordable houses, and to have 50 per cent is really good.”

Councillor Jill Elson said: “I, with council officers and two leaders, have been discussing for eight years with Devon County Council what to do with these two plots. To say it has been frustrating is an understatement.

“The application provides 50 per cent affordable housing, which I am extremely pleased about because we are very short on affordable housing in Exmouth.”

The committee also heard from Gareth Jones, of developer DCH, who highlighted how the 50 per cent affordable housing proposed was double that required by EDDC policy.

The vote to approve came despite concerns raised by local resident David Deverill and Halsdon ward councillor Megan Armstrong on issues, including possible flooding and increased traffic.

Cllr Armstrong said: “There seems to be general agreement in the neighbourhood that some kind of housing development would be welcome on this mostly-derelict site. However, it is also felt by residents, and some consultees, that this should not be built at any price.”