Outline planning permission has been granted for 74 new homes on the former CeramTec factory site in Colyton.

The proposal, initially submitted on behalf of Homes England in 2018, includes a mixture of one, two and three-bedroom apartments and houses described as being of a high quality and in keeping with the character of Colyton.

The development, on land off Sidmouth Road which has remained empty since the CeramTec factory closed down several years ago, will also include some affordable housing, employment space to meet local demands and a new public green space.

The existing office building will be retained and there is potential for future expansion of the employment area and 43 car parking spaces.

Planning permission was granted by East Devon District Council on June 3 subject to a number of conditions, including approval of the final appearance, layout and and landscaping of the site; an investigation and risk assessment into any possible contaminants on site; the completion of a Reptile Mitigation Survey in respect of slow worms found on the site; and the provision of electric car charging points.

The applicant is also required to enter a Section 106 agreement to provide 20 per cent affordable housing, £34,365.60 for the provision of a public amenity/play space, up to 1,000 square metres of employments space and £50 green travel voucher per dwelling.