A CONTROVERSIAL 14-flat development in the Marina that provoked 13 new letters of objection from neighbours was again not backed by town planners.

A CONTROVERSIAL 14-flat development in the Marina that provoked 13 new letters of objection from neighbours' was again not backed by town planners.

Exmouth Quay residents fear that the new 14-flat Spinnaker Court development on land adjacent Windward Court, Shelly Road would, be over development and 'destroy' the Exe estuary.

The plans have already previously prompted 100 letters of objection and town planners in the spring recommended the plans be refused.

On Monday Cllr Steve Gazzard said: "Originally this was going to be nine units, seven houses and two town houses.

"It is over development, I think it is far too big for the footprint.

"There is not enough parking for visitors and guests.

"I have concerns about the proximity to and the height of the sea wall."

Councillors were also concerned that the Highways Agency and the Environment Agency had not given their views, while the Exe Estuary partnership's views were 'not available' to councillors.

Cllr Gazzard added: "I am rather concerned that three major authorities have not given their views on this major application."

Cllr Malcolm Mitchell questioned why developers Eagle One were allowed to proceed with plans when the council was 'still waiting' for them to fulfil their obligations to build affordable homes on a previous Marina Development.

He added: "Why is one developer planning 11 homes (Seagull developments at 6 Douglas Avenue) required to contribute �30,000 towards education while another is building 14 are is not being asked to contribute?"

The plans will now be considered by district planners.

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