Tavistock estate agent weighs in on Violet Lane housing scheme debate

A Tavistock estate agent has told The Moorlander that the town needs more homes, but questioned whether many new developments are providing the type of housing local people need.

David Turnbull, a local estate agent, shared his views as debate continues over the proposed Violet Lane development, which would bring 143 new dwellings, including 43 affordable homes, on the eastern edge of Tavistock.

The scheme has attracted opposition from campaigners concerned about its impact on roads, infrastructure and green spaces.

As previously reported by The Moorlander, residents have mobilised against the plans, arguing that further large-scale development could place additional pressure on local services and the surrounding environment.

Mr Turnbull said he believes there is a real need for more housing in Tavistock, particularly for younger people, renters and key workers.

"There is a genuine housing need in Tavistock, as there is across the country as a whole," he said.

"The issue many residents have is that the developments we see often don't address the needs we have."

He pointed to first-time buyers, lower-income families, renters and key workers, including teachers, nurses, health professionals, police officers and firefighters, as groups struggling to access home ownership.

Mr Turnbull also raised concerns about the planning process surrounding the Violet Lane proposal.

"The Violet Lane proposal brings other concerns. It is not a site included in the local plan," he said.

"How can normal Tavistock residents trust the democratic process or the planning process at all, if the debate and consultations that led to the local plan in the first place then don't get followed through on?"

He added that many residents feel national housing targets are increasing pressure on local authorities to identify land for development.

Mr Turnbull said there is a difference between housing demand and housing need.

While he believes more affordable housing is required, he questioned whether developers are focusing on parts of the market where buyers face the greatest challenges.

Mr Turnbull highlighted shared ownership and affordable housing delivered at developments including Broadleigh Park and The Tors as examples of housing that can help meet local needs.

He also suggested that brownfield sites should be prioritised where possible before development is considered on open land around the town.

Mr Turnbull confirmed he has not yet submitted comments on the Violet Lane application but intends to do so.

The Moorlander also attempted to contact developer LVA for comment, but had not heard back by the time of publication.

The Violet Lane proposal remains under consideration, with supporters citing housing needs and opponents raising concerns about infrastructure, traffic, landscape impact and adherence to the Local Plan.