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SEND college celebrates major move into revamped Paignton youth hub

Torbay Council
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SEND college celebrates major move into revamped Paignton youth hub

A college is celebrating the end of refurbishments at its new site, which is also a hub of youth activity.

All pupils at Mayfield College will be enjoying their learning together from September following the completion of building works at Parkfield’s MyPlace site.

The second and final phase of works to refurbish the building in Paignton has now finished.

The project was funded by High Needs Capital Allocations which is government money paid to local councils to support new places and improve existing provision for children with SEND or who require alternative provision.

It comes as People’s Parkfield CIC – which manages the wider Parkfield site and the older Parkfield House building closer to Paignton seafront – prepares to host an open day for young people during next week’s half-term break.

Devon-based construction firm Mercury carried out this phase of the works at the college. It has transformed the interior spaces into multi-functional teaching and extra-curricular activity areas.

The sports hall, climbing wall and classrooms remain as spaces for the community to use in the evenings, weekends and school holidays.

Last year, Mayfield began a staggered move from its Occombe House site, which it has outgrown. The remaining students will be based at Parkfield from September.

Space became available at MyPlace when the Medical Tuition Service announced it would be relinquishing its lease. It provides education for children who can’t attend school due to medical reasons.

Parkfield was built as a dedicated space for community youth services and includes a BMX track, skate park and the MyPlace building.

The People’s Parkfield open day takes place on Wednesday 27 May from 2pm until 8pm.

Children and young people can get taster sessions at the BMX track, where there will be registered coaches on hand to provide instruction and encouragement.

People’s Parkfield hopes there will be interest from the local community to start up a BMX club.

Other attractions at the open day include inflatables, the YMCA youth van, a skate jam, smoothie bike and music.

Organisations attending include Reach Outdoors, the Brownies, Active Devon, YMCA South Devon, Sound Communities, Cycle Torbay, the Friends of Parkfield House and People’s Parkfield CIC. The school’s toilet facilities will be available.

Rachel Hawthorne, Head of Mayfield College, said: “The move of Mayfield College students from Occombe House to the Parkfield site has been exceptional. The new environment is not only visually impressive but has been thoughtfully designed to meet the needs of our learners. Its location has significantly supported the development of student independence and confidence.

“The improvements to the site have been a considerable asset. In particular, the enhanced workshop and art spaces now fully enable students to engage meaningfully in their vocational learning, supporting both skill development and future pathways.

“In addition, the site has strengthened our role within the local community. We have been able to open our doors to a wide range of groups and clubs, both during the college day and beyond, fostering inclusive community engagement and providing valuable real-world opportunities for our students.”

Councillor Nick Bye, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, said: “This is a brilliant project which has already brought MyPlace to life. It’s now being used as a truly inspirational home for Mayfield College as well as a base for multi-generational activity. Thanks to all who have been involved in this project, which has been completed on time and on budget.

“The improvements to the building will be beneficial for students and staff and it will be so good for the whole college community to finally come together under one roof from September.

“The entire site was always intended to be used for community youth services and I hope the open day will inspire young people to go along and find out what’s available for them there.”

Larissa Conman, business development manager at Mercurcy Construction, said: “As principal contractor, Mercury Construction was pleased to deliver the final phase of this refurbishment project. We developed a strong collaborative working relationship with the college and council teams throughout, which supported the safe and efficient delivery of the works, whilst the college remained fully operational. The project was completed on time and within budget.

“Alongside the construction programme, a further focus of the project was the delivery of social value across Torbay. This included facilitating 169 local apprenticeship hours, support for local skills and employment, engagement with our supply chain on equality, diversity and inclusion awareness, and volunteer activity to improve the People’s Parkfield garden.

“We also funded a community arts day in January for Mayfield students and young people using the skatepark, delivered by Sound Communities with support from supply chain partners HEI Group and O’Neill and Holman, featuring mural painting and music activity. These outcomes were delivered in alignment with the Build Torbay framework, of which Mercury is a member, and reflect a commitment to creating lasting benefit beyond the construction work. We will continue to strengthen links between the construction industry and the communities in which we work.”

Fresh cash boost handed to save crumbling Oldway Mansion tower

Torbay Council
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Fresh cash boost handed to save crumbling Oldway Mansion tower

A new phase of essential remediation work on Oldway Mansion’s historic West Tower has begun, supported by £166,109 from Historic England and £234,226 of additional funding from Torbay Council.

The works will address key structural issues and mark another significant step in securing the future of one of Torbay’s most iconic heritage landmarks. This combined funding package will support a programme of specialist structural and conservation works, including essential repairs to the roof, floors and structural framework. These are key priorities identified during earlier inspections and preparatory activity.

This latest grant builds on extensive work already underway at the site. In October 2025, we commissioned specialist teams to carry out essential conservation repairs after inspections confirmed deterioration to the roof coverings and dormers on the West Tower. These works form part of the wider restoration programme supported by £8 million in UK Government funding and £1 million from ourselves, which together represent the first major phase of Oldway’s long‑term restoration.

Oldway Mansion, built by Isaac Singer, inventor of the Singer sewing machine, and subsequently remodelled by his son Paris, in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, is a landmark of national and local significance. Modelled on the grandeur of French palaces, the mansion opulent interiors, formal gardens and striking architectural flourishes that reflected the Singer family’s status and character.

Oldway Mansion, Oldway Road, Paignton, Torbay, Devon. West Tower, exterior, view of tower in scaffolding prior to repair works. View from the west.

The West Tower, part of the former Riding School and Banqueting House and a distinctive element on the mansion complex, has been subject to structural decline. Its conservation is a vital component in safeguarding Oldway’s original historic fabric and ensuring the building’s long‑term future.

Oldway has been on Historic England’s Heritage at Risk Register since 2023, reflecting the scale and importance of the restoration needed to protect this much‑loved site.

Cllr Chris Lewis, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Place Development and Economic Growth at Torbay Council, said: “This investment from Historic England enables us to press ahead with the next critical phase of conservation on the West Tower. These works build on the detailed inspections, scaffolding and preparatory activity already completed and form part of our wider ambition to restore Oldway as a landmark cultural and community asset.”

“We are grateful for the continued partnership with Historic England and the funding that is helping us stabilise the building and move ever closer to restoring Oldway for the whole community.”

Rebecca Barrett, South West Regional Director at Historic England, said: “Projects like this deliver so much more than just the repair of old buildings – they strengthen local economies, bring communities together, and instil a genuine sense of pride in what makes a place special. That’s why we’re pleased to have awarded a grant for the West Tower repairs, and to support Torbay Council in their ambitions to secure the future of Oldway.”

Members of the public are welcome to continue enjoying the grounds of Oldway and the sporting facilities available on site, which remain open throughout the restoration period. However, for safety reasons, access to the building itself remains strictly prohibited, as the West Tower and wider mansion are currently surrounded by extensive scaffolding and active conservation works.

Torquay set for ten-hour music marathon in pancreatic cancer fight

Lewis Clarke
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Torquay set for ten-hour music marathon in pancreatic cancer fight

Music fans are being urged to wear purple and dance into the early hours as a ten-hour fundraising event aims to raise awareness of pancreatic cancer while bringing together DJs, bands and singers for a packed day of entertainment.

The event, titled The Show Must Go On, is due to take place at Arena Torquay on Saturday, November 21, from 3pm until 1am. Organisers say the fundraiser will feature DJs, bands, singers and live acts, with the full line-up set to be announced at a later date.

Promotional material for the event describes it as a fundraising and awareness event for pancreatic cancer, encouraging attendees to “wear purple to show support and raise awareness”.

The event branding also carries the slogan: “The beat always goes on – even in loss, the rhythm of life continues.”

No ticket or booking information has yet been released.

Beer, barn dances and beach fun as Ilfracombe bursts into life this weekend

Devon Today
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Beer, barn dances and beach fun as Ilfracombe bursts into life this weekend

Beer festivals, barn dances and classic Volkswagens are among the attractions drawing visitors into Ilfracombe this weekend as the seaside town prepares for one of its busiest spells of the season.

From live music and local ales to family activities and coastal walks, organisers say there is something for all ages across the town and surrounding area over the coming days.

A beer festival will take place outside The Landmark across Friday, Saturday and Sunday, featuring local brews, food and live entertainment organised by Ilfracombe Round Table.

Visitors can also enjoy a barn dance, while the Seaweed Festival will celebrate coastal culture, foraging and ocean-inspired living.

Classic car enthusiasts are expected to gather on the seafront on Sunday for the North Shore Aircooled VW event, which begins at 11.30am and showcases air-cooled vehicles and vintage Volkswagens.

Shoppers hoping for bargains can visit a local car boot sale, while those staying into next week can also explore the Ilfracombe Monday Market and the Lee Spring Fair, featuring stalls, food and family activities.

Families visiting the area are also being encouraged to make the most of local attractions, including Ilfracombe Aquarium, Ilfracombe Museum and Watermouth Castle.

Outdoor attractions including The Torrs cliffs, Cairn Nature Reserve, Hillsborough and Bicclescombe Park are also expected to prove popular as warmer weather arrives along the North Devon coast.

Away from the harbour, Ilfracombe’s town centre is also continuing to attract new independent businesses and experiences.

Fore Street and the High Street have seen several new openings in recent months, adding to established businesses including Mark’s Models, The Wellington Arms, hand:plant, Pedlars Of Ilfracombe, Ilfracombe Chocolate Emporium, Sage Cottage Tearoom, In The Pink and Sue’s Treasure Trove.

Newer additions include Venture Games Ilfracombe, which offers a paint splatter room and escape room experience, and Still Point Studio, which hosts yoga and wellness classes.

Visitors can also browse record shops, book stores, gift shops, galleries, eco refill stores and independent food retailers across the town centre.

Promoting the area’s growing independent business scene, Andrew White said Ilfracombe was “full of fresh energy right now”.

He added: “At a time when many high streets are facing real challenges, Ilfracombe is bucking the trend.

“New independent shops, cafés, studios and experiences have opened in recent months, adding even more character to a town already packed with local favourites.”

Andrew said the town’s independent spirit was helping attract more visitors and encouraging people to spend more time exploring beyond the harbour area.

He said: “Local people are opening doors, trying new ideas, investing in the town and giving visitors more reasons to stay, browse, eat, shop and enjoy.”

More information about businesses and attractions in the town can be found at the Ilfracombe visitor guide

Giant wheel returning to Torquay seafront with stunning new look

Torbay Council
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Giant wheel returning to Torquay seafront with stunning new look

Torbay Council is pleased to confirm that DeVey Events Limited will be bringing a new wheel to Torquay seafront this summer, with construction of the 35-metre attraction now underway.

This year’s attraction follows the previous operator’s decision not to return for 2026 after reviewing operational and financial factors. In response to this, we have been working extensively behind the scenes to secure a new operator and bring forward a solution, with work now progressing on the new wheel ahead of its installation on the seafront.

This marks a positive step forward in bringing a refreshed and high-quality offer back to Torquay, following significant efforts to move plans forward at pace. By working closely with partners, we have ensured the seafront continues to be a vibrant and attractive destination. The attraction will also include associated catering outlets, helping to enhance the overall visitor experience and support the local economy.

The wheel has been a much-loved feature of the seafront in recent years, and its return in a new form reflects the ongoing commitment to support and attract high-quality attractions that appeal to both residents and visitors. The aim is to ensure the new offer complements the character of the seafront, respects its setting, and delivers long-term benefits for the Bay.

Alongside this, we continues to invest in a wide-ranging programme of attractions and events throughout 2026, with one of the most extensive calendars to date showcasing the very best of the Bay’s culture, coastline and community spirit.

Councillor Jackie Thomas, Cabinet Member for Tourism, Culture, Events and Corporate Services, said: “We were naturally disappointed when the previous operator decided not to return to Torbay this year, particularly as the wheel has become such a popular and much-loved feature for both residents and visitors. But rather than dwell on that, we got straight to work with interested partners to make sure this fantastic opportunity wasn’t lost.”

“I’m absolutely delighted that, in such a short space of time, we’ve secured a new operator, and that construction of this brand-new 35-metre wheel is already underway. Before long, people will once again be able to enjoy those breathtaking panoramic views across Torbay and the English Riviera from high above the seafront.”

“This is exactly the kind of energy and ambition we want to see for Torbay; moving quickly, working positively with partners, and making sure our residents and visitors continue to enjoy brilliant attractions here in the Bay.”

The 35-metre wheel will feature enclosed gondolas, offering residents and visitors panoramic views across Torbay and the English Riviera. The opening hours are expected to extend from daytime into the evening. This will allow passengers to experience the bay in full daylight, with the coastline illuminated by evening lights.

The attraction will open on Saturday 23 May at 3pm with ticketing information to be confirmed. Follow the council’s social media channels for the latest updates. 

New affordable homes handed over at landmark Taw Wharf project

Devon Today
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New affordable homes handed over at landmark Taw Wharf project

A major milestone has been reached in the transformation of Barnstaple’s Taw Wharf, as the final affordable homes have been completed and handed over to community landlord, North Devon Homes.

Developer and contractor Pearce Construction has delivered the last 14 affordable homes at the landmark riverside development, bringing to a close more than a decade of planning and construction. The homes, made up of 12 one-bedroom apartments and two two-bedroom houses, mark the final stage of the long-running regeneration project.

Martyn Gimber, Chief Executive of North Devon Homes, said:
“Today is a special day as these 14 new homes are the final affordable homes at Taw Wharf as we complete this fantastic development and regeneration in the heart of Barnstaple. These homes are a great design, great quality and are just the start of many stories and new lives and opportunities for the new residents who will start moving in from next week.

“The development has won several awards and sold over 100 homes, with the wider Taw Wharf regeneration supporting the creation of more than 500 jobs across the construction of new homes and in the retail and leisure businesses on site, helping to build a thriving community for generations to come. When I look around at what has been achieved over the last 11 years, I am proud to say that we have worked together to create communities where people want to live.”

The scheme has been led by North Devon Homes (NDH) in partnership with Pearce Construction, alongside funding and support from Homes England and the local authority with further support from architects, Woodward Smith and advisors, Taylor Lewis. The completion showcases the transformation of the former 30-acre brownfield site at Anchorwood Bank into a thriving new community.

Paul Knox, Managing Director of Pearce Construction, added:
“Throughout the regeneration project, both Pearce and NDH have worked in close partnership to deliver this vision, with a shared commitment to creating high-quality places to live. In development nothing is easy and it’s a very proud moment to see these homes being handed over.

“NDH now has the privilege of welcoming new residents to these affordable homes. They will be joining a close-knit community that takes pride in Taw Wharf, a place we have all worked hard to build together.”

A key part of the project’s success has been the innovative approach to funding affordable housing. In response to dwindling government grants, North Devon Homes established Anchorwood Ltd in 2015, an ethical property development company. Profits generated from the sale of open market homes at Taw Wharf have been reinvested to help fund affordable housing.

Since its formation, Anchorwood Ltd has built and sold more than £20 million worth of homes and funded 37 affordable properties for local people, helping to address the ongoing demand for affordable housing across North Devon. Once fully complete, the Taw Wharf development will deliver a total of 172 homes with the build of the remaining market sale homes nearing completion.

North Devon MP warns families fear sewage spills at popular beaches

Aaron James
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North Devon MP warns families fear sewage spills at popular beaches

Families are checking sewage alerts before heading into the sea as concerns grow over pollution at some of North Devon’s best-known beaches ahead of the bank holiday weekend.

North Devon MP Ian Roome has called for stronger action against water companies after attending a Surfers Against Sewage paddle-out protest in Croyde. The Liberal Democrats say designated bathing sites in England have been affected by more than one million hours of sewage spills over the past five years.

North Devon is home to beaches including Croyde, Saunton, Woolacombe, Putsborough, Combe Martin, Ilfracombe Tunnels and Ilfracombe Hele. Ian warned that more needed to be done to protect residents and visitors as warmer weather arrives and the bathing water season gets underway.

The official bathing water season runs from Thursday, May 15 until Tuesday, September 30, during which regular water quality testing is carried out at designated sites.

Environment Agency data showed designated bathing sites in England recorded 145,606 hours of sewage dumping in 2025, equivalent to 6,067 days. In the South West, South West Water reported 49,067 sewage spills between 2020 and 2025, lasting a total of 326,864 hours.

The Liberal Democrats are calling on the Government to make water companies report sewage spill volume rather than duration. The party has also renewed calls for Ofwat to be replaced with what it described as a stronger regulator capable of holding water companies to account.

Ian said: “North Devon has some of the most stunning coastline in the country, yet I’m hearing from families who are now checking for sewage spills before letting their children swim. Water companies simply are not being held to account.

“It was great to join local campaigners at the Surfers Against Sewage paddle-out recently in Croyde, and I know that local groups and campaigners have been working hard to keep pressure up on water companies and Government.

“We need far bolder action by the government: full transparency on sewage spills, closing the loopholes that allow water company executives to avoid bonus restrictions, and real accountability for polluters.

“I am calling on the Government to stop stalling, replace Ofwat with a regulator that has real teeth, and clean up our bathing sites in North Devon ahead of summer.”

Air ambulance called after biker seriously hurt in Devon crash

Devon and Cornwall Police
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Air ambulance called after biker seriously hurt in Devon crash

We are appealing for witnesses and information following a serious road traffic collision on an unnamed road near Barnstaple.

Officers were called at around 8.20am on Friday 22 May, to an unnamed road between Filliegh and Swimbridge.

It was reported that the single vehicle collision involved a Honda motorcycle.

A man, aged 63 from Swimbridge, sustained serious injuries and was airlifted to hospital. His next of kin are aware.

The road was closed while an investigation was carried out at the scene.

Officers from the Roads Policing Team would like to thank the public for their patience whilst the road was closed.

Anyone with any relevant information and dashcam footage which may assist the investigation is asked to contact police via our website or by calling 101 quoting reference number 50260129430.

Tragic update after deadly Devon crash claims second victim

Devon and Cornwall Police
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Tragic update after deadly Devon crash claims second victim

A second man has died following a three-vehicle collision on the A386 near Okehampton.

Emergency services were called to a collision between Hatherleigh and Folly Gate at around 1.50pm on Tuesday 19May.

It involved a silver-coloured BMW estate, a white Ford Transit van and a white Citroen Relay Luton van.

The 33-year-old male driver of the BMW, from the Okehampton area, was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The driver of the Ford Transit van, a 74-year-old man from the Bude area, was taken to Derriford Hospital with serious injuries.

We have now been informed that he died of his injuries on Thursday 21 May. His next of kin have been informed.

The driver of the Citroen van was uninjured.

Officers are continuing to appeal for information and dashcam footage following the incident.

Anyone who witnessed the incident, or has any information or dash-cam footage, is asked to contact us via our website here or by calling 101 quoting log 397 of 19/5/26.

Fears mount as more than 1,100 back bid to save Plymouth climbing wall

Lewis Clarke
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Fears mount as more than 1,100 back bid to save Plymouth climbing wall

A growing campaign to save Plymouth’s only roped climbing wall has gathered more than 1,100 signatures after plans emerged to close the facility at Plymouth Life Centre.

An official e-petition launched through Plymouth City Council is calling on the authority to halt the proposed closure of the Plymouth Life Centre climbing wall and protect what campaigners describe as a “vital community sporting facility”.

The petition, started by Ellie Moyse, argues the climbing wall plays a key role in supporting physical and mental wellbeing for residents across Plymouth, Devon and Cornwall.

Campaigners say the wall, which opened in 2012, is the only roped climbing facility in Plymouth and provides a well-equipped and accessible venue within walking distance of the city centre and the University of Plymouth.

The petition states: “The closure of this climbing wall would not only diminish community health and fitness options but also deprive many residents, especially youth, of a safe and supportive environment where they can engage in positive activities.”

It adds that climbing “has been proven to improve both mental and physical health”.

Supporters have also highlighted the wall’s role in hosting competitions and developing young talent since climbing became an Olympic sport.

The petition says removing the facility could affect opportunities for future athletes and reduce economic activity linked to visiting events and competitions.

Campaigners also raised concerns about the impact on schools and children, saying the centre works closely with local schools to introduce pupils to climbing through structured sessions and courses.

According to the petition, many children would lose the opportunity to try climbing in a supervised environment if the wall closes because there are no comparable alternatives in the immediate Plymouth area.

The petition states the nearest alternative climbing centre is more than 20 miles away and would involve a round trip of more than an hour by car, with limited public transport available.

Rebecca Smith, MP for South West Devon, said she had been contacted by residents, families and members of the climbing community following concerns over the future of the wall.

In a social media post, Rebecca said: “While community-led petitions have already received significant support, Plymouth City Council will only formally recognise petitions submitted through its own system.”

She added that residents had highlighted the difference between the Life Centre climbing wall and other facilities in the region.

Rebecca said: “Many people have also pointed out that the Life Centre wall is not directly comparable to facilities such as Clip ‘n Climb or The Hangar because the Life Centre offers the largest wall in the South West, is used locally by schools for students studying their GCSEs and the team there are trained to offer SEN sessions as well.”

The Plymouth City Council e-petition opened on Tuesday, May 19 and runs until Tuesday, June 23. At the time of writing, 1,146 people had signed the petition.

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