PERMISSION was expected to be granted yesterday for 24 new houses to be built in Cullompton.

The proposal for the new homes, along with an access road and landscaping, was to have a decision made by town councillors on whether to grant permission at last night's Cullompton town council planning committee.

The full planning application was approved by the district council earlier this month, after initial problems.

The new development, which is set for Exeter road near the Cullompton Bowls Club, was recommended refusal in June.

This was due to a number of factors, including that it was considered to be an overdevelopment of the site, issues with car parking, and access to Exeter Road.

The access problems were that it is likely to be difficult as it is close to the roundabout, with access to the bowling club immediately adjacent,

and close to the National Speed Limit sign on the B3181.

It was also inadequate for the site and the number of dwellings.

In the approval, Mid Devon District Council said: "The overall number of dwellings and the design and layout of the site is on balance appropriate in its context and makes use of the developable site area.

"The proposal makes sufficient provision for off-street car parking provision and the access to the site is considered to have adequate visibility so as to ensure highway safety."