Home Blog Page 32

Plans to expand mobility scooter use raise concerns over public safety

Lewis Clarke
-
0
Plans to expand mobility scooter use raise concerns over public safety

Proposals to overhaul the rules governing mobility scooters and powered wheelchairs could transform how thousands of people travel, but concerns remain over safety and access.

The Department for Transport is reviewing legislation covering powered mobility devices, including where they can be used and how fast they can travel. The consultation, which closes on Tuesday, April 22, has drawn responses from organisations including the Devon Countryside Access Forum.

The forum, responding on behalf of its eighteen members, said it “strongly agree[d]” with all four objectives set out in the review. These include ensuring disabled people can legally use necessary mobility devices, allowing greater choice, and protecting both safety and public confidence.

It added that the objectives “would appear logical and contribute to inclusivity being a key principle”.

Under current rules, Class one, two and three mobility devices can be used on pavements and pedestrian areas at up to four miles per hour. Class three devices can also be used on most roads at speeds of up to eight miles per hour.

However, the consultation is considering whether these devices should also be allowed in cycle lanes and on cycle tracks.

The forum said allowing mobility devices in road cycle lanes “would be logical”, but warned that “cyclists might be more vulnerable in a collision situation”. It also highlighted practical barriers, including a lack of dropped kerbs and poor pavement conditions, which may make cycle lanes a safer option in some cases.

On off-road cycle tracks, the forum supported wider access for mobility devices, including wheelchair power add-ons, but suggested a lower speed limit of four miles per hour to protect other users such as children, dog walkers and horse riders.

It noted that some routes, including the Granite Way, Tarka Trail and Exe Estuary Trail in Devon, would be suitable for such use, while narrower paths in woodland or managed estates may not be accessible.

The response also raised concerns about increasing device speeds and specifications, stating that safety on shared routes must remain a “primary consideration”.

The consultation further explores whether powered mobility devices should be allowed to exceed eight miles per hour in cycle lanes. The forum cautioned that cycle lanes were originally designed to separate motor traffic from more vulnerable users, and introducing larger powered devices could create new risks.

It also backed proposals to classify wheelchair power add-ons under existing mobility device rules, particularly for use on off-road cycle tracks.

In its final comments, the forum described the consultation as “difficult to deal with”, adding that many questions were “too open-ended” and dependent on variables not clearly defined.

The Department for Transport said feedback from the consultation will help determine whether and how current laws should be updated.

Warning issued over gaps in Tiverton development access plans

Lewis Clarke
-
0
Warning issued over gaps in Tiverton development access plans

A major housing development has come under scrutiny amid warnings that key details around access, transport and green space planning remain unclear.

Concerns have been raised over proposals for the Tiverton Eastern Urban Extension (Area B), with advisers warning that gaps in planning could affect how residents travel, access green space and use local facilities.

The Devon Countryside Access Forum, a statutory advisory body, said more detailed information is needed before an informed decision can be made on the application.

The forum, which provides independent advice on improving public access to land for recreation, discussed the plans at a meeting on Monday, January 19.

In a letter dated Thursday, January 22, to Mid Devon District Council, forum officer Hilary Winter outlined several areas of concern.

The forum said existing maps lack clarity and do not adequately show how walking, cycling and other active travel routes would connect across the site and into the wider area.

It warned that infrastructure had not been designed in a way that properly supports walking and cycling, adding that clearer planning is needed to encourage sustainable travel and access to nearby destinations, including the proposed country park and the Grand Western Canal.

Members also raised concerns about how a proposed shared-use route linking Manley Lane to the National Cycle Network would connect to the housing development, suggesting a more direct route may be preferable.

Details about the surfaces of footpaths and cycle routes were described as insufficient, while the forum said low-level lighting may be needed to ensure safe use, particularly for children and young people.

The forum questioned assumptions in the transport assessment that the proposed country park would generate little additional traffic.

It said such estimates “make no sense”, warning that the popularity of green spaces, especially for dog walking, could lead to higher-than-expected vehicle use.

Concerns were also raised that limited parking on Manley Lane may not be enough to meet demand.

The proposed countryside park was highlighted as a key feature of the development, but the forum noted it spans multiple landowners and is not fully included in the current application.

It called for a “holistic design” approach involving all stakeholders to ensure the park is properly planned, managed and maintained.

The forum also challenged the suggestion that the development would have negligible impact on the nearby Grand Western Canal Country Park.

It added that strong walking, wheeling and cycling links would be vital, particularly as some parts of Tiverton have high levels of households without access to a car.

Further concerns included a lack of clarity over section 106 contributions across multiple developers, and the need for a coordinated approach.

The forum also suggested appointing a team, including a ranger, to promote active travel and use of the countryside park, citing successful examples elsewhere.

In addition, it said the application does not fully explore potential travel links to the east, including connections towards Halberton and Tiverton Parkway.

The Devon Countryside Access Forum said it hopes its comments will be taken into account as part of the decision-making process and has requested feedback from the council.

Millions face stealth tax hit as frozen thresholds drag earners higher

Devon Today
-
0
Millions face stealth tax hit as frozen thresholds drag earners higher

A growing number of households are being pulled deeper into the tax system as frozen thresholds continue to bite, with experts warning the impact is quietly compounding across income, savings and inheritance.

Much of the debate around so-called “fiscal drag” has focused on income tax, where thresholds have remained unchanged for an extended period. The personal allowance of £12,570 and the higher rate threshold of £50,270 are set to remain frozen until April 2031, a move expected to push significantly more people into the 40% and 45% tax bands.

Selaine Saxby, a former MP who has since qualified in regulated financial planning, said the effects are increasingly being felt by ordinary taxpayers, including pensioners who are now more likely to fall into higher tax brackets.

The freeze on National Insurance contributions thresholds, combined with rising wages, is also drawing more employees and employers into higher contributions. This is particularly affecting sectors such as hospitality, where rising minimum wages are adding further financial pressure.

Selaine said the policy is a “significant revenue earner” for the Treasury, especially when combined with inflation. She pointed to a compounding effect, where moving into a higher tax band can trigger increases elsewhere.

She explained that higher rate taxpayers face increased charges on savings interest and capital gains tax, which has risen from 18% to 24%, while the allowance is set to fall to £3,000.

The same freeze on thresholds is also affecting inheritance tax. The personal threshold has remained at £325,000 since 2009, with the Office for Budget Responsibility forecasting that 6.3% of estates will be liable by 2028–29, compared with 2.7% in 2009–10.

Separate analysis by wealth manager Quilter suggests up to 35,000 additional families could be pulled into the High Income Child Benefit Charge over the next three years, reducing the value of government support.

According to forecasts, the overall tax burden is expected to rise from 34.5% of GDP in 2024–25 to 38.5% by 2030–31.

Selaine said that while financial advice can help improve tax efficiency, fiscal drag is likely to continue increasing the burden on households unless there is a change in government policy.

Work planned to get underway on £9 million bridge

Devon County Council
-
0
Work planned to get underway on £9 million bridge

Work is due to start next month on a £9 million scheme to replace a bridge near Cullompton.

The Baulk Bridge carries the B3181 over the River Culm just south of Cullompton. The structure, which was built in 1924, no longer meets modern standards and needs to be replaced after investigations found it’s suffering from steel corrosion and deteriorating concrete.

To ensure the existing bridge remains open for as long as possible and to minimise disruption during construction, the new 30-metre span bridge will be located slightly downstream and the road will be re-aligned.

Our scheme, which is scheduled to get underway on Monday 11 May, will be carried out using temporary traffic lights for the majority of the time. A temporary 30mph speed limit will also be in place for an 1,100 metre section of the road north of the Nags Head railway bridge.

Councillor Dan Thomas, Cabinet Member for Highways, said: “It’s vital this link is upgraded as it’s a busy non-motorway link between Exeter and Cullompton used by around 5,000 vehicles every day, as well as being an important diversion route for the M5 motorway. Every effort is being made to minimise disruption, and as the new bridge will be on a slightly re-aligned route it’s reducing the amount of time that the road will need to be closed.”

Councillor James Buczkowski, County Councillor for Cullompton and Bradninch, said: “This is a significant investment in a key route into Cullompton, and it’s essential that we get this work done to ensure the long-term safety and resilience of the network. The B3181 is not just a local road, it carries thousands of vehicles every day, supports local businesses, and acts as an important alternative route when the M5 is under pressure.

“I’m particularly pleased to see the level of collaboration between highways officers and our local councils, with careful thought given to how and when the work is carried out. That includes the timing of road closures and the approach to traffic management, all aimed at keeping disruption to a minimum wherever possible. There will inevitably be some disruption, as with any major infrastructure project, but this scheme has clearly been planned with that in mind. By taking the time to get this right now, we are avoiding greater disruption and risk in the future, and that is the responsible approach for our communities.”

Two closure periods are scheduled for the B3181 from Exeter Road to Clan Farm – initially during the first few weeks of the scheme for nine days from Saturday 23 May to Sunday 31 May 2026 to establish site access, install traffic management and carry out earthwork.

Towards the later stages of the scheme, the B3181 will be closed for up to 23 days from Saturday 24 July 2027 to Sunday 15 August 2027 to complete construction and surfacing of the road, divert utility services and install lines, signs and safety barriers.

During these closures a signed diversion, which has to use similar standard roads, will be in place via the B3181 Exeter Road, A373 Honiton Road, A375 Exeter Road, A30, A3015, B3212, B3181 and vice versa.

Work will be carried out by Wills Bros on our behalf.

Controversial Brixham flats plan set for crunch planning decision

Lewis Clarke
-
0
Controversial Brixham flats plan set for crunch planning decision

A major redevelopment plan that could reshape a prominent town centre site is edging closer to a decision, with councillors set to weigh up a scheme that has already sparked strong local opposition.

Plans have been submitted to redevelop the former Jewson site at Torbay Trading Estate, New Road, replacing the existing commercial building with a four to five storey block of flats.

The proposal, submitted by McCarthy Contracting & Development Ltd, would see the demolition of the current structure and the construction of 23 two-bedroom flats, alongside parking, access and landscaping works.

Planning officers have recommended the scheme for approval, subject to conditions and a legal agreement, with a final decision expected to be made by Torbay Council’s planning committee.

The application was validated on Thursday, January 15, with a decision originally due by Thursday, April 16, before being extended to Friday, May 1.

The development would create a residential building reaching up to five storeys at its highest point, with 23 flats and 12 parking spaces.

The site currently houses a large industrial unit used as a car garage and is described as being in a relatively poor condition, having been altered over time from its original art deco design.

The scheme has attracted dozens of objections from residents, many focused on the height and scale of the proposed building.

Susan Furminger said the five-storey design would be “not in keeping with the local area” and described it as “overbearing” and an “overdevelopment”, adding it would lead to loss of light and privacy for neighbouring homes.

She also raised concerns about parking and traffic, saying additional vehicles would “compound parking problems” on nearby roads and increase risks for pedestrians on New Road.

Similar concerns were echoed by Michael Furminger, who said the building would be “too high, overbearing and out of character” and warned it could negatively impact views across the town, including towards All Saints Church.

Joan Arr said the extra storey compared to previously approved plans would “dominate nearby properties” and result in overshadowing and reduced privacy.

Jason Hill also objected, stating the development would “not fit with a picturesque fishing village” and could increase traffic, noise and pollution in the area.

Craig Flack described the scheme as an “unsightly monstrosity” that would tower over neighbouring homes, while Phillipa Sclater said the additional height could lead to a loss of light and privacy and potentially affect property values.

Several residents, including Joanne Sampson, raised concerns about balconies and windows overlooking nearby homes, while others questioned whether 12 parking spaces would be sufficient for 23 flats.

Wayne Saunders, who lives next to the site, said he was concerned about the impact on a boundary wall, potential noise, overlooking from balconies and increased pressure on drainage systems.

Concerns were also raised about road safety and pedestrian access along New Road.

Paul Barnett, in a neutral response, suggested that if approved, the development should include new pedestrian crossings and traffic calming measures, funded by the developer.

He said crossing the road had become “dangerous” due to increased traffic and limited crossing points.

Some representations also questioned access arrangements via the neighbouring industrial estate and whether agreements were in place, as well as potential legal issues such as party wall agreements.

Planning officers note the site is allocated for housing in the local neighbourhood plan, although specifically for around 20 affordable homes rather than open market units.

Despite this, an independent viability assessment concluded the scheme cannot provide affordable housing due to financial constraints.

Council planners have highlighted a wider issue, pointing to a “very pressing need” for housing in Brixham and limited opportunities for expansion beyond constrained land.

Technical consultees have raised issues including flood risk, drainage and highway access, though no objections have been made subject to conditions.

A final decision will now rest with councillors at an upcoming planning committee meeting on April 27.

First glimpse inside Torquay Pavilion in over a decade revealed

Torbay Council
-
1
First glimpse inside Torquay Pavilion in over a decade revealed

We are submitting a Listed Building Consent (LBC) application to support a programme of community outreach and engagement as part of the ongoing work to restore Torquay Pavilion.

This marks the latest workstream led by the Council since taking full ownership of the building and progressing plans for its long‑term restoration.

The application seeks approval for two site cabins to be positioned within the existing site compound. These cabins are proposed to open to the public over the summer, offering a space to showcase elements of the Pavilion’s rich social history. The Listed Building Consent application also includes plans for a new viewing area on the eastern elevation (car park side), giving people the chance to look inside the building for the first time in more than a decade. Alongside this, there will be opportunities for the community to share memories, stories, artwork and other contributions as part of a wider effort to help local people reconnect with the Pavilion. Further details on the outreach and engagement programme will be shared next month.

© Dr Duncan Philips

It is important to note that this Listed Building Consent application does not seek approval to begin restoration works. We are awaiting the outcome of the Options Appraisal, which will identify a preferred end use for the Pavilion—one that reflects and celebrates Torbay’s culture and heritage. The findings of this work will be shared in the summer.

Restoration design will progress following the Options Appraisal, ensuring the building and its internal fit‑out are fully aligned with the requirements of the preferred end use.

In parallel, we continue to explore funding opportunities for full restoration in partnership with a range of organisations. Once a preferred end use is confirmed, the council expects to advance these discussions further and move towards securing a positive long‑term outcome for the Pavilion.

Cllr Chris Lewis, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Place Development and Economic Growth, said; “Reaching this stage is the result of a huge amount of hard work behind the scenes, and I want to recognise the dedication of our council officers and specialist contractors who have brought us to this point. Their expertise has been vital in helping us understand the true condition of the Pavilion and in shaping the careful, responsible steps we are now taking. This Listed Building Consent application is another important milestone as we work towards a future for the Pavilion that honours its heritage and reconnects it with the community”.

Timeline of restoration activity

  • October 2024 – Torbay Council regains full control of Torquay Pavilion
  • January – December 2025 – Building investigative works undertaken
  • January 2026 – Public consultation launched to shape future use
  • January – May 2026 – Structural and architectural information collated
  • May – November 2026 – Restorative design development and works specification
  • June 2026 – Options Appraisal findings published
  • June 2026 – Community outreach programme begins
  • December 2026 – February 2027 – Market testing phase

The timeline presented is indicative and may be refined as the project progresses.

Fury over flare plan as neighbours say noise issues still unresolved

Lewis Clarke
-
0
Fury over flare plan as neighbours say noise issues still unresolved

A fresh planning proposal has reignited concerns from residents already grappling with noise complaints, as a bid to install new equipment at an established green energy site comes under scrutiny.

Plans have been submitted to Devon County Council for the installation of a replacement flare unit at an existing anaerobic digestion facility near Holsworthy.

The application, lodged by Severn Trent Green Power Limited, proposes upgrading ageing infrastructure used to safely burn off excess biogas generated on site. According to planning documents, the current flare has been in operation for almost 20 years and is described as increasingly unreliable.

The new unit would be connected to Tank 5 within the facility and designed to operate at the same time as existing combined heat and power engines, improving the site’s ability to manage surplus gas safely.

Developers say the flare would have a capacity of 1,200 cubic metres per hour of biogas and stand just over 11 metres tall. It would be constructed mainly from stainless steel and include an acoustic shroud intended to reduce noise from associated equipment.

Planning documents state the proposal would “not give rise to any significant visual, noise or other environmental effects” and would instead improve safety and operational efficiency at the site.

However, objections have already been raised by local residents, who claim existing noise issues at the plant remain unresolved.

One submission to the council states: “The site already is above permitted dB during the day and at night… Despite the comments in the application regarding promise of noise control they are not doing so now.”

The objector adds that mitigation measures introduced in July 2025, including acoustic hoods, “did not solve the noise problems”, with further surveys carried out in September 2025 but no resolution yet delivered.

They question whether further permissions should be granted before existing issues are addressed, saying: “Surely the current problems with noise control must be resolved… before more permits are given.”

The anaerobic digestion facility, located around 950 metres north of Holsworthy, processes food and green waste to generate renewable energy. It has been in operation since planning permission was first granted in 1999, with subsequent approvals allowing for expansions and modifications over the years.

According to the applicant, the flare is a standard safety feature at such sites, used during maintenance periods or when gas cannot be processed through energy systems. It converts methane into carbon dioxide, helping to reduce greenhouse gas impact and prevent uncontrolled releases.

The application will now be considered by Devon County Council, which will assess both the technical merits of the proposal and concerns raised by nearby residents before making a decision.

Rural mast plan sparks debate over signal boost and countryside views

Lewis Clarke
-
1
Rural mast plan sparks debate over signal boost and countryside views

A plan to install a towering telecoms mast in the countryside could transform mobile coverage — but not without raising questions over its impact on the landscape.

Cornerstone Telecommunications has submitted a prior approval notification for a 22.5 metre lattice tower on land at Kingsford Farm, near Peters Marland, Devon. The proposal falls under permitted development rules set out in Part 16 of the General Permitted Development Order.

The development would include three antennas, one 0.6 metre dish and associated equipment. It would also feature two equipment cabinets, a meter cabinet and additional infrastructure contained within a 1.1 metre-high stockproof fenced compound.

Supporting documents state the mast is designed to improve both coverage and network capacity in the surrounding area. Mobile base stations are required where people live and work to maintain reliable digital services and avoid so-called “blackspots” where signal is poor or unavailable.

The applicant explains that individual base stations can only handle a limited number of calls and data connections. When demand exceeds this capacity, users may experience slower speeds and reduced call quality.

In such cases, operators may upgrade existing infrastructure or build new sites to meet demand, particularly in areas where connectivity remains limited.

The proposed mast would be a grey lattice structure, a design choice intended to reduce its visual impact by allowing some visibility through the framework and blending more easily with the sky.

Planning documents also note that the site has been selected to limit disruption to existing landscape features, with access taken from a nearby track and no requirement for new roads.

Technical information submitted alongside the application explains that terrain, buildings and vegetation can weaken mobile signals, meaning additional or taller structures are sometimes required to maintain reliable coverage.

Dish antennas, such as the one proposed, are typically used to link base stations together and operate using low-powered signals in a focused beam. Guidance states that exposure levels from such equipment are expected to remain well within international safety limits.

Northam plan opens for feedback as residents invited to comment

Torridge District Council
-
0
Northam plan opens for feedback as residents invited to comment

The Northam Neighbourhood Plan proposal, as submitted to Torridge District Council in accordance with Regulation 15 of the Neighbourhood Planning (General) Regulations 2012 (as amended), establishes a vision for the evolution and long-term sustainability of Northam and provides policies and proposals to guide development within the designated area over the period up to 2031.

On 25 March 2026, sections 98 and 99 of the Levelling-up and Regeneration Act 2023 came into effect, and these amended the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004 and the Town and County Planning Act 1990 in respect of the legal compliance and the Basic Conditions requirements for neighbourhood plans.

In accordance with Regulation 16 of the Neighbourhood Planning (General) Regulations 2012 (as amended), representations are invited from interested parties during the period from Thursday 16 April until 17:00 on Friday 1 May 2026 on specific additional information only; whether the Northam Neighbourhood Plan proposal complies with two new legal compliance requirements and one new Basic Condition requirement. Late representations will not be accepted.

Details about the new requirements can be inspected throughout the period set out above:

  • online via https://www.torridge.gov.uk/northamnp
  • at the following locations during normal opening hours:
    • Torridge District Council, Riverbank House, Bideford, EX39 2QG
    • Northam Library, Fore Street, Northam, EX39 1AW

Representations should be made in writing and may be submitted during the consultation period:

Hospice boosted by £17,000 donation from crematorium recycling scheme

North Devon Council
-
0
Hospice boosted by £17,000 donation from crematorium recycling scheme

North Devon Hospice is the latest charity to benefit from North Devon Crematorium’s role in a national metal recycling scheme.

A cheque for £17,000 was presented to the hospice at the crematorium on Thursday, 16 April. The donation has been generated from the proceeds of the recycling scheme run by the Institute of Cemetery and Crematorium Management (ICMM), which enables metals from cremated remains to be safely recycled.

The money will go towards North Devon Hospice’s ongoing work in providing expert 24-hour care to those facing life-limiting illnesses, both at the hospice in Barnstaple and in patients’ homes, and giving emotional support for their families.

Councillor Helen Walker, Chair of the North Devon Crematorium Joint Committee, said: “We are very proud to support North Devon Hospice, and we are delighted this contribution will allow it to continue their outstanding work providing vital care and support to local people and their families.

“The ICMM initiative allows us to generate meaningful donations from the cremation process, always with the consent of families, and it is so pleasing that we are able to reinvest that money back into our local community.”

Claire Paine, Business Relationship Manager at North Devon Hospice, said:  “We are so incredibly thankful for this generous donation from North Devon Crematorium. Moments like this remind us just how fortunate we are to be part of such a compassionate and tight-knit community. The people of North Devon go above and beyond, and that support means the world, not just to our team, but to every patient and family we care for.

“This donation will make a real, tangible difference. It will help us continue to provide the vital end-of-life care and emotional support that so many families across North Devon rely on during the most difficult days of their lives. We couldn’t do what we do without partnerships like this, and we are incredibly grateful.”

For more information about North Devon Hospice, head to their website, www.northdevonhospice.org.uk/

The metal recycling scheme is run by the ICCM and is only carried out with the consent of the bereaved.

1...313233...97Page 32 of 97