WORK has started on a 60-home development in Chudleigh Knighton, on the edge of Dartmoor National Park.

Councillor Chris Clarance, chairman of Teignbridge Council, joined Baker Estates’ operations director, Graham Hutton, to put a spade in the ground.

Baker Estates’ commitment to sustainability and community development goes beyond housing. This exciting project will not only address the demand for bungalows, family and smaller homes, but also provide substantial benefits to the local community through a £1.7 million investment by Baker Estates into vital infrastructure projects via the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL).

Mr Hutton said: ‘This development brings benefits to communities well beyond just the new homes themselves.

As well as a wide mix of affordable and open market houses and bungalows, Baker Estates will also be paying a massive £1.7m of Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) to the council. This is specifically to provide the local infrastructure enhancements that the community wants.

Fifteen per cent of this figure goes direct to the parish council and is therefore targeted to bring benefits very locally. In all cases, the allocation of these funds will be directed by the local councils.

‘I am therefore delighted to have commenced the build at Turnpike Fields.

With three self-build plots for sale and a wide range of homes of available we believe it will be an excellent fit for Chudleigh Knighton.

Cllr Chris Clarance said: 'I’m delighted to see the start of this residential development as it provides quality new affordable homes for local people, selfbuild opportunities and a wide range of bungalows for the open market which are always very well received.

The development in Chudleigh Knighton represents an exciting opportunity for residents and potential homebuyers alike.’

The development, to be called Turnpike Fields, will comprise of two-, three-, four- and five-bedroom homes including houses, bungalows and its popular barn-style bungalows.