What concerns were raised about the water supply for the Devon development?

An internal email from a Natural England specialist indicated that the protection of the water supply for the development had not yet been demonstrated and required further investigation.

Why are residents questioning Natural England's decision on the Newton Abbot development?

Residents are questioning the decision because an internal email from a Natural England expert called for more investigation, yet the organization publicly stated no objection.

When is the planning inquiry expected for the Devon development site?

The planning inquiry to discuss drainage infrastructure and other issues at the site is expected to be heard in April 2026.

Home / Environment / Expert Warning Ignored on Devon Water Supply

Expert Warning Ignored on Devon Water Supply

14 Feb

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Summary

Internal email reveals expert doubts on water supply protection.
Residents question Natural England's decision against expert advice.
Controversial 1,200-home development faces ongoing water concerns.

Expert Warning Ignored on Devon Water Supply

An internal email from August 2025, obtained through a Freedom of Information request, has surfaced concerning the water supply for a proposed 1,200-home development in Newton Abbot, Devon. A senior specialist at Natural England expressed that the protection of the water supply to Wolborough Fen had not yet been demonstrated and required further investigation.

This contradicts Natural England's public stance in October 2025, when they stated no objection to the development's impact. Residents are reportedly astonished, believing their own expert's advice was disregarded. Natural England maintains that a single internal email does not reflect their overall expert opinion, citing new evidence submitted by the developer in September 2025 as the basis for their subsequent decision.

The developer, Vistry South West, asserts that their measures will protect the water supply and that Natural England has confirmed this multiple times. Teignbridge District Council has previously issued a stop notice at the site, and infrastructure work was restarted in October 2025. A planning inquiry is scheduled for April 2026 to address drainage and other critical issues.

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