North Devon councils launch hunt for land in ambitious new Local Plan

Land across North Devon and Torridge could be earmarked for future homes and businesses as both councils launch a new “Call for Sites” to identify potential development land.

Residents, landowners and organisations are being urged to put forward sites that could help shape where new housing and employment space is built over the next decade.

The move comes as the government targets 1.5 million new homes over the next five years, with local authorities reviewing available land to meet housing and economic needs in a sustainable way.

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A spokesperson for the councils said smaller plots of less than one hectare are particularly encouraged, as they can play an important role in supporting local small and medium-sized businesses.

The councils are also keen to identify previously developed or “brownfield” land with potential for regeneration, helping bring disused sites back into use.

All suggestions will be assessed through the Housing and Economic Land Availability Assessment (HELAA), which determines whether land is suitable or developable but does not grant planning permission.

Sites must be submitted by October 31, 2025, to be considered as part of the new Local Plan, which will balance environmental, social and economic factors to guide sustainable growth.

Landowners or organisations wishing to submit sites for consideration can email landplanning.taunton@gth.net.

You can take part in the call for sites exercise by visiting torridge.gov.uk/callforsites or northdevon.gov.uk/callforsites.