The people of Northam have backed a neighbourhood plan which will give them greater say in future planning decisions.
It was overwhelmingly supported by voters in a referendum.
Of 2,356 votes cast, 93% supported the plan.
The result has been welcomed by councillors and community volunteers who spent nine years working on it.
The wide-ranging Northam plan consists of 21 planning policies that can help shape planning decisions for the area. It covers community centres, housing, parking, local green spaces, protection of countryside between settlements, valued views, nature areas, heritage sites and footpaths.
It also supports local business, tourism and maritime industries, especially Appledore Shipyard.
The plan has been through four public consultations, two independent health checks and an independent examination.
Now the result is confirmed, Torridge District Council will 'adopt' the Northam Neighbourhood Plan and use it to make planning decisions in the parish.
Northam is the largest area in northern Devon to hold a referendum on a neighbourhood plan.
Welcoming the result the mayor of Northam Cllr Sam Newman-McKie said: "The referendum result is great news for our community as this plan was produced by people who live here in Northam, Appledore and Westward Ho! and really care about the area. It ensures our voices will be heard by the new Devon Council moving forward.'
Cllr Peter Hames (Green, Appledore), chair of the Northam Neighbourhood Plan Advisory Group said: 'The referendum result is a heartening validation of the hard work that councillors and community members have put in to the production of the plan. We now look forward to its policies helping to shape a better future for our area.'
Northam Backs Neighbourhood Plan by 93% in Referendum