Premier Inn Plans for Newton Abbot Racecourse thrown out!

Proposals – for a 60-bedroom Premier Inn and a 220-seater Beefeater – at Newton Abbot Racecourse have been thrown out.

Planners claimed the contemporary design and siting of the buildings opposite Tesco supermarket were not in keeping with the surrounding area, said a report in the Herald Express.

Concerns about traffic access, congestion and pollution were also raised.

Whitbread Plc has said it will appeal against the decision.

In March news of the proposals – reportedly leading to more than 60 jobs and part of the racecourse’s plans to become a facility throughout the whole year – met a mixed local reaction.

For example artichoke09 posted on Newton Abbot People:

“The Tesco roundabout is a nightmare already trafficwise - this will only make it worse, and give a bad impression to visitors.  What a pity - this could have been a real asset to the town but in this location the only winner it seems to me is going to be the racecourse, not the town.”

However DevonFlag commented:

“What a great opportunity for for the continuing improvement of Newton Abbot.Lets hope the planners support this project.   Its a pity that the locals arn't be as forward thinking as the firms that want to invest and develop in and around the town.”

What are people’s views now? Good decision or a step back for Newton Abbot? Let us know.