East Devon District Council could be given greater flexibility on the number of new houses required in the area, as part of a government consultation on planning changes. 

The council has agreed that no further discussion or decisions will be made on potential development sites across the district, until the government has made a decision on housing targets.

The news will be welcomed by many residents who raised concerns that East Devon's proposals for up to 217 news houses in Seaton would place too much pressure on local infrastructure and the environment. 

These concerns were acknowledged at this week's Strategic Planning Committee, following news that the government may give councils more choice over the number of new homes being built.

EDDC leader, Cllr Paul Arnott, put forward a motion that no further discussions or decisions on potential sites take place until the government makes its decision. 

EDDC's Strategic Planning Committee agreed the motion, which means council officers will only continue technical work needed to support production of the Local Plan, such as water, sewerage and other environmental matters.

Cllr Arnott said: "Last year, our council wrote to the Government calling for an urgent re-analysis of inflated housing need numbers imposed on the communities of East Devon.

"Pending any reply, we continued with the Local Plan consultation as required by law.

"This week - at the first opportunity to do so - I proposed that we put the sites aspect of the work on hold until what we hope will be confirmation that our housing numbers will be greatly reduced.

"I was very pleased that this won cross-party support. The ball is now in the government's court to deliver a new National Planning Policy Framework."

The news comes as concerns mount over the Baker Estates plans to develop land off Harepath Road, on the green wedge between Seaton and Colyford, with 130 new houses.

Objections from residents have included the lack on infrastructure in the town, including doctor and dental practices and schools; the risk of flood; the loss of green space; and the effect on local wildlife.