I started off this petition on MON-16-MAR-2026, about the impact of the 130 plan development off Silver Street.  However, as I have gone deeper into the detail, I have heard things & seen things that deserve immediate action. Therefore this petition is now not only about a single site……….it is now about ALL the new planned and future sites across our lovely village! Today SAT-28-MAR-2026, as we are closing out the second week of the petition, we are at 325 signatures…. Thank you for your support so far - now is time to boost up our campaign, lets target to get 3,000 signatures!

Thank you

Paul Toby Fernbank 

We, the residents of Willand, call on Mid Devon District Council (MDDC) to listen to the local Parish Council’s and respect the agreed Neighbourhood Plans - to ensure that rapid housing development in our village—and surrounding areas—is matched by proper infrastructure, safety measures, and delivery of planning commitments.

Across Willand and neighbouring Cullompton and Halberton, over 1,600 new homes are being delivered or proposed. This represents a major increase in population and places significant pressure on local infrastructure, services, and road networks.

We have serious concerns in four key areas:

1. Green Spaces & Planning Commitments

Residents are concerned that developments are not fully delivering the green spaces and community amenities promised in approved plans, reducing quality of life and access to outdoor space.

2. Road Safety & Junction Design

The proposed new T-junction near the Esso site on Silver Street—opposite an already busy junction—raises significant safety concerns. This is compounded by a 40mph speed limit and frequent pedestrian crossings by children, elderly residents, and walkers.

3. Pressure on Schools & Healthcare

The scale of development is expected to increase the population by over 1,000 people in Willand alone, with no clear plan to expand school places or GP services. This risks overwhelming already stretched local provision.

4. Regional Traffic & Infrastructure Impact

Large-scale development in nearby Cullompton, combined with existing traffic, is placing increasing strain on the B3181 and M5 Junction 28. Additionally, when the M5 motorway closes, large volumes of diverted traffic pass directly through Willand, creating extreme congestion and safety risks.

WE CALL FOR:

1.*GREEN SPACES:* Full enforcement of all planning commitments, particularly green spaces.
2.*SAFE ROADS*: A full road safety review, including consideration of a roundabout and reduced speed limits
* Improvements to local road infrastructure, including the B3181 and M5 Junction 27 & 28.
3. *EDUCATION & HEALTHCARE*: Investment in school capacity and healthcare services in line with population growth
4. *IMPROVED MDDC PLANNING & GOVERNANCE CONTROLS*: Proper assessment of cumulative impact across all developments in Willand and Cullompton by Mid Devon District Council, not just in silos!
* Greater transparency and accountability in planning decisions from Mid Devon District Council (MDDC). 
 

Willand deserves development that is safe, sustainable, and supported by the infrastructure needed for a thriving community—not development that overwhelms it!

Please sign/pass on this petition to protect our village and its future!

Thank you

From Toby and the other concerned residents of Willand.

Please join me in standing up for Willand by signing this petition.

Together, we can send a resounding message to Mid Devon District Council to review ALL the developments together.

Together we can help shape the future for the greater good of our community!