New simplified planning lead for Exeter and East Devon Enterprise Zone

East Devon District Council has appointed Frances Wadsley as Simplified Planning Project Manager for the Exeter and East Devon Enterprise Zone.    

Frances will bring forward Local Development Orders (LDOs) on four key sites in the Enterprise Zone: Exeter Science Park, Skypark, AirPark and Cranbrook town centre.  The LDOs will make the planning process simpler and quicker, stimulating investment in the sites.

A simplified planning regime is a key part of an Enterprise Zone designation.  It helps to encourage economic development and investment by improving the speed and predictability with which development proposals can come forward.  Developers and businesses can have certainty that suitable proposals can be built allowing them to respond quickly to meet market demand and in turn, encourage companies of all sizes to locate in the Zone. 

Frances will work with key stakeholders to define the scope of the LDOs and develop programmes for each site. She will ensure that a tailored regime is in place that responds to the specific characteristics of the four sites.

With almost 20 years planning experience, Frances most recently worked at Taunton Deane Borough Council as a planning officer with the Major Projects Team.

Francis explained: “I’m really looking forward to the exciting opportunities and fresh challenges this new role will bring. I will be able to draw on my broad experience to accelerate development and help businesses take advantage of the opportunities the Enterprise Zone provides.”