Plans to build 175 homes in Kingskerswell have been given the thumbs-up by Teignbridge planners.

Developers Crown Estate lodged plans with the council to carry out the work off Coffinswell Lane and Newton Road as well as knock down the village’s public hall and a bungalow.

But a replacement hall, a children’s play area together with cycle and walking routes are all on the drawing board.

Concerns had been raised over the loss of countryside, increase in traffic, potential flooding and part of the proposed site being out of an area earmarked for development by the council.

Mark Sommerville, on behalf of the developers, told Teignbridge Council planning committee that 30 per cent of the houses would be affordable and some properties would be wheelchair accessible.

He also assured members that the tired looking public hall wouldn’t be torn down until the new one was up and running.

Cllr Ros Prowse said: ‘It is a good scheme and has a lot of benefits to residents.’

Dawlish member Lisa Mayne said: ‘A lot of thought has gone into the plans and it will look lovely when it’s done.’

Ward member Mike Haines couldn’t find fault with the plans and said he supported the scheme.

Pascal French, strategic land manager at the Crown Estate, said: ‘We are delighted that the committee has approved our application, which was submitted after extensive local engagement and detailed technical work to ensure the scheme is right for this location.

‘We believe the scheme will bring many benefits including a new park, a new public hall and much needed new homes for the area.’

The plans were passed by 15 members of the committee with two abstaining.