East Devon Watch has previously pointed out the difficulties facing residents of Cranbrook when it comes to local medical facilities, e.g. a backlog of patients still needing to register, and the need for expansion if the town is to grow to its projected population of 20,000.

EDDC seems to be adopting a more pessimistic solution however to the consequences of this lack of foresight and planning. Application 15/0045/MOUT (application received on 24 December [sic] 2014, and validated 10 March this year), calls for the construction of up to 820 houses at Cranbrook, with additional facilities such as a primary school (see below). So, among the facilities for which permission is sought, why does the summary on the Council website mention the need for a cemetery? Twice?

“One 1-form entry primary school, a cemetery and associated building, sports and recreation facilities including children’s play, an extension to the country park, green infrastructure (including open space), community uses (including non-residential institutions) and cemetery. Access from former A30, landscaping, engineering (including modelling and drainage) works, demolition, associated infrastructure and car parking for all uses. All matters reserved except for access.”

With the new cemetery at Whimple, just what is EDDC not telling us!

Especially as Cranbrook has no projected housing for the elderly!