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Lights up on respect as theatre visit leaves students deep in thought

Devon Today
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Lights up on respect as theatre visit leaves students deep in thought

A theatre performance tackling respect and responsibility left students reflecting long after the final scene, as a visiting company brought live storytelling directly into the classroom.

South Devon UTC in Newton Abbot, part of Education South West, welcomed theatre company Narrative Alchemy for a live production exploring themes around relationships and personal responsibility.

Delivered within the college environment, the performance gave students the opportunity to experience professional theatre while engaging with ideas relevant to their everyday lives. Through a combination of storytelling and stage performance, the production encouraged students to consider the importance of positive attitudes and respectful interactions.

The visit forms part of the college’s wider commitment to supporting students’ personal development alongside their technical and academic studies.

Narrative Alchemy is led by co-artistic directors Gemma Paget and Sean McGrath. The pair previously founded AlterEgo Creative Solutions, a theatre-in-education company whose productions addressing social issues reached hundreds of thousands of young people. Drawing on that experience, they launched Narrative Alchemy to explore the transformative power of drama and storytelling.

Claire Plumb, headteacher at South Devon UTC, said: “We were delighted to welcome Narrative Alchemy to the college. The performance was engaging, thought provoking and delivered important messages in a way that really resonated with our students.

“Opportunities like this help bring learning to life and support the personal development of our young people.”

Matthew Shanks, chief executive of Education South West, said: “Experiences such as this show how creative arts can play an important role in education.

“Live performances can challenge perspectives, spark discussion and help young people reflect on their own actions and values.

“We are pleased that students at South Devon UTC had the opportunity to take part in such a meaningful experience.”

Strawberry Fields opens new Dartmoor site at iconic former diner

Devon Today
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Strawberry Fields opens new Dartmoor site at iconic former diner

Strawberry Fields is delighted to announce that its newest location, Strawberry Fields Dartmoor, is now officially open, marking an exciting new chapter in the brand’s continued growth across Devon.

Following the ongoing success of its award-winning flagship farm shop and restaurant in Lifton – freshly crowned National Best Large Farm Shop of the Year 2026 – the family-run business has expanded its reach with popular satellite shops in Buckfastleigh and Exeter. The newly opened Dartmoor site builds on this momentum, bringing the much-loved Strawberry Fields experience to a new community.

Located at the old iconic Dartmoor Diner site, the new shop has undergone a full renovation and transformation. The space features downstairs and upstairs seating, as well as outdoor seating for customers to enjoy. With direct access onto the moors, it provides the perfect stop-off for walkers, cyclists, and visitors exploring Dartmoor – and dogs are warmly welcome.

The new location follows the same well-loved smaller shop model. Customers can enjoy a welcoming coffee shop, a convenient food-to-go offering, and a full range of Strawberry Fields’ homemade produce.

Open daily from 7am to 7pm, the Dartmoor shop offers a wide selection of freshly prepared items, all made each morning in Lifton. Visitors can choose from hot pasties and sausage rolls, scotch eggs, homemade pies and quiches, alongside freshly baked bread, cakes, and more. From saffron buns and scones to teacakes, belgian buns, and classic lemon drizzle cake, everything is crafted using time-honoured recipes and the finest ingredients.

Shop shelves are stocked with Strawberry Fields’ signature homemade range, including award-winning pies, pasties, bread, jams, and chutneys, as well as free-range eggs, and a selection of butchery items. The dedicated bakery team continues to bake from scratch daily, ensuring products arrive fresh – and often still warm from the oven – just as customers have come to expect.

More than 30 years in the making, the Strawberry Fields brand remains firmly rooted in its farming heritage. Run by the Mounce family, the business was founded on a passion for producing high-quality, niche food using the core activities of their working farm.

The opening also comes at an exciting time for the business, as Strawberry Fields has been shortlisted in the Top 3 for Best UK Large Farm Shop of the Year 2026 – a testament to the dedication of their team and the continued support of their loyal customers.

The transformation of the Dartmoor site represents the next step in Strawberry Fields’ expansion, bringing fresh, local, and homemade food to even more customers across the region.

Warning as Sidmouth walkway shut due to cliff stability concerns

East Devon District Council
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Warning as Sidmouth walkway shut due to cliff stability concerns

East Devon District Council is urging residents and visitors to put their safety first and strictly follow path closures currently in place along Sidmouth seafront, as essential cliff works continue.

A recent cliff inspection identified a large crack in a wall structure above the Millennium Walkway. The cobblestone wall has had a crack behind it for some time, however professional geotechnical engineers have advised that it has opened up in the last 12 months.   The path below has been closed to protect the public from the risk of any failure or falls while the council investigates potential remedial action.

The undercliff / Millennium Walkway remains closed from Jacob’s Ladder to the beach access steps near the offshore breakwaters until further notice. In addition, a section of the cliff top path within Connaught Gardens, near the Glasshouse, is also closed for safety reasons.

These closures follow a period of increased cliff instability along the Jurassic Coast, where numerous cliff falls have taken place in recent months and years. The coastline is naturally erosion prone and can become extremely hazardous without warning. Even seemingly stable areas can give way suddenly. Typically, we experience the worst cliff falls following periods of extreme weather.  A very wet winter, now into a dry period could cause cliff falls over the next few months.

To protect the public from the risk of falling debris and unstable ground, the council is reminding everyone that entering closed areas is dangerous. People are asked to heed all safety signage, respect fencing and barriers, and avoid attempting to bypass closures.

Alternative routes to West Beach

Visitors can still reach West Beach safely by using the alternative diversion route:

•            Esplanade → Peak Hill Road → West Beach

Cllr Geoff Jung, East Devon District Council’s Portfolio Holder for Environment Operations, said:

“Public safety has to come first. We know how frustrating these closures can be, but the risks along this stretch of the Jurassic Coast are very real. We’ve seen many cliff falls in recent months and years, and even areas that look stable can give way without warning. Please follow the signage, stick to the safe routes, and help us keep everyone out of harm’s way while we work quickly to assess the situation.”

The council thanks the public for their patience while this important safety work is undertaken and will provide updates as soon as possible.

Plymouth MP launches survey on controversial parking charge increases

Devon Today
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Plymouth MP launches survey on controversial parking charge increases

Rebecca Smith, MP for South West Devon, has launched a survey to seek views  on Plymouth City Council’s proposed parking charge increases across the city.

The survey was launched following plans by Plymouth City Council to introduce a range of changes to parking, including higher on-street parking charges, increases to residential and long-stay permits, higher fees at council-owned multi-storey car parks, and new charges at some coastal locations.

Under the proposals, drivers would also be charged to park at coastal car parks including Jennycliff and Mount Batten, where motorists would receive one hour free before paying £2 to stay longer.

Miss. Smith said she wanted to ensure as many residents as possible had the opportunity to share their views which will be shared with the Council.

Miss. Smith said: “Parking is an important issue for many people across Plymouth, whether you are a resident, business owner or visitor to the city.

Labour-run Plymouth City Council is proposing a range of parking charge increases, and it’s important that local people have the chance to make their voices heard.

Along with local Conservative councillors and candidates, I launched this short survey to gather residents’ views on the proposed changes and how parking costs affect visits to the city centre, local businesses and places people enjoy across Plymouth.

I would encourage anyone who hasn’t yet taken part to spare a minute to complete the survey and share their views.”

Miss. Smith said she would share the results of the survey with the council once responses have been collected.

Residents can complete the survey online here:  www.rebecca-smith.org.uk/news/rebecca-launches-survey-have-your-say-plymouths-parking-charges

Three boats wrecked in suspected deliberate fire at Dawlish seafront

Lewis Clarke
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Three boats wrecked in suspected deliberate fire at Dawlish seafront

Three boats were left badly damaged after an overnight blaze tore through vessels stored near the seafront, with police informed after the fire was believed to have been started deliberately.

Fire crews from Dawlish and Teignmouth were called to Boat Cove, Dawlish, shortly before 3.30am after Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service received a report from a member of the public of a fire near the toilets.

As firefighters travelled along Marine Parade, crews could already see a large glow and flames in the distance.

The officer in charge requested a second fire engine, with Teignmouth Fire Station sent to assist.

Once at the scene, firefighters laid out hoses to reach the blaze because of the distance between where the appliance could be parked and the fire itself. Crews used both 70mm and 45mm hose.

It was then established that the fire involved three small private boats on hard standing and was spreading towards other nearby boats.

Using an attack line, crews worked to stop the flames spreading any further. After the fire had been put out, firefighters checked the area for hotspots with a thermal imaging camera.

Three boats were severely damaged by fire, while a fourth boat suffered slight heat damage.

The cause of the fire is believed to have been deliberate and police were informed.

Fresh strategy unveiled to tackle rising anti-social behaviour concerns

Lewis Clarke
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Fresh strategy unveiled to tackle rising anti-social behaviour concerns

A renewed push to clamp down on anti-social behaviour has been unveiled, as council leaders set out a new plan aimed at protecting residents and strengthening communities.

Mid Devon District Council has introduced an updated corporate anti-social behaviour policy, outlining how it intends to prevent, manage and resolve incidents across the district. The move is designed to ensure people can live free from intimidation, harassment and nuisance, while also improving how cases are handled.

The report will be presented to the Community, People and Equalities Policy Development Group on Tuesday, March 24, where members will be asked to recommend its adoption.

The updated policy sets out a clear framework for dealing with anti-social behaviour, including what types of issues the council can address and how residents can report concerns. It places a strong emphasis on early intervention and supporting victims, while also recognising that some perpetrators may have underlying vulnerabilities.

Partnership working is identified as a key element, with the council working alongside police, housing providers, health services and voluntary organisations to manage cases effectively. The report states that coordinated action will help ensure the most appropriate response is taken, particularly in complex situations.

While informal resolution is preferred, enforcement powers remain available for more serious or persistent cases. These include legal tools such as injunctions and notices, which will be used proportionately and based on evidence.

The policy has also been updated to reflect current best practice, including a greater focus on multi-agency working and clearer definitions of anti-social behaviour. Changes include improved guidance on case reviews, updated references to support services for victims, and alignment with housing policies.

Council officers say the approach will help deliver a more consistent and transparent service, allowing staff to prioritise high-risk cases while resolving lower-level issues earlier. The report suggests this could reduce long-term demand on services and improve outcomes for residents.

The council will now focus on training staff, improving reporting systems and strengthening links with partner organisations. Public information will also be updated to make it clearer how residents can report anti-social behaviour and what response they can expect.

Looking ahead, the report highlights potential future changes at a national level, including proposals for new “respect orders” under the Crime and Policing Bill. These could allow authorities to impose restrictions on offenders, although details are still subject to legislation and guidance.

Financially, the policy is expected to be delivered within existing budgets, with costs largely limited to staff time, training and system updates. Officials suggest early intervention and partnership working could help reduce more expensive enforcement action over time.

The council says the updated policy reinforces its commitment to creating safer, more resilient communities, while ensuring all action taken is fair, proportionate and legally compliant.

Cost of living pressures drive surge in demand for local support

Lewis Clarke
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Cost of living pressures drive surge in demand for local support

Efforts to shield vital community services and strengthen local resilience have taken centre stage as councillors reflect on a year shaped by financial pressure and rising demand.

A report from Mid Devon District Council’s Community, People and Equalities Policy Development Group (PDG) outlines how members have focused on supporting residents through the cost-of-living crisis while maintaining essential services.

The group, which oversees areas directly affecting residents’ daily lives, examined increasing demand for welfare support, advice services and community-based provision. It also considered the wider impact of local government funding pressures and ongoing reorganisation proposals.

Councillor Ben Holdman, chair of the Communities, People and Equalities PDG, said: “The PDG is at the heart of the Council’s relationship with its residents.”

He added: “Throughout the year, we have sought to ensure that decision-making has remained grounded in fairness, evidence, and a strong understanding of local need.”

Members reviewed quarterly performance reports covering finance, risk and service delivery, alongside updates on housing demand, changes in social housing legislation and improvements in food safety inspections.

The group also assessed the council’s Medium-Term Financial Plan for 2026/27 to 2028/29, highlighting concerns about how funding reductions could affect community-focused services. Members stressed the importance of protecting preventative and early-intervention support.

A strategic grants programme of £120,000 per year was recommended, recognising both the value of voluntary organisations and the financial constraints facing the authority.

The council also hosted a “Meet the Funders” networking event, bringing together voluntary, community and social enterprise organisations with funding bodies and support agencies. The initiative aimed to reduce barriers to funding and encourage collaboration.

Cllr Holdman said: “I want to thank all Officers involved for the organisation and delivery of the event.”

The PDG received a presentation from Citizens Advice covering Torridge, North, Mid and West Devon, highlighting the scale and complexity of issues facing residents. Members noted the role of early advice in preventing problems from escalating and easing pressure on public services.

Further work will explore funding arrangements for advice services, including whether longer-term grants could provide greater stability.

The group also reviewed the council’s resilience strategy, recognising its importance in responding to emergencies and supporting recovery. Members pointed to growing risks linked to climate change, severe weather and infrastructure challenges, and backed plans to support towns and parishes in developing community emergency plans.

In addition, councillors considered the Food Safety Service Plan, which covers statutory duties including inspections, infectious disease control and regulation of tattooing and piercing premises.

Tiverton takeaway licence bid questioned after immigration concerns raised

Devon Today
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Tiverton takeaway licence bid questioned after immigration concerns raised

A fresh bid to serve alcohol at a town centre restaurant is set to be scrutinised after concerns were raised over alleged links to previous immigration offences.

Councillors will meet on Friday, March 27 to decide whether to grant a new premises licence for Mumbai Kitchen, an Indian restaurant offering eat-in and takeaway services at 46–48 Bampton Street in Tiverton.

The application, submitted on February 6 on behalf of Jamal Uddin by agent Olu Olusola, originally sought permission for the sale of alcohol from midday until 11pm daily, alongside late-night refreshment.

However, following concerns raised by planning authorities about existing restrictions on the site, the application was amended. The revised proposal now seeks permission to sell alcohol and operate between 12:00 and 22:00 each day.

The Licensing Sub-Committee will consider the application after a representation was submitted by Immigration Enforcement, raising concerns linked to the prevention of crime and disorder.

In its submission, Immigration Enforcement outlined a history of enforcement activity at the premises, including multiple civil penalties relating to illegal working involving six individuals.

The representation also highlights an alleged connection between the proposed designated premises supervisor and the previous premises manager, citing a shared residential address.

Immigration Enforcement stated: “On the balance of probabilities, the Mumbai Kitchen restaurant is likely to revert to being run by the current manager… It is considered that the prevention of crime and disorder objective would be prejudiced if the application is allowed.”

The premises has previously been subject to licensing action. In November 2025, councillors revoked its licence, concluding that doing so was necessary to promote the licensing objective of preventing crime and disorder.

No objections have been received from members of the public.

Devon and Cornwall Police have agreed a set of additional licence conditions with the applicant, while planning officers have confirmed they have no further objections following the amendment to operating hours.

Councillors must now determine the application based on the four licensing objectives: the prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, the prevention of public nuisance, and the protection of children from harm.

They have the option to grant the licence as requested, impose conditions, refuse parts of the application, or reject it entirely. A decision must be made within five working days of the hearing.

Major £6m community hub plan could reshape local health and activity

Lewis Clarke
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Major £6m community hub plan could reshape local health and activity

A multi-million pound overhaul could replace outdated leisure facilities with a single modern hub designed to tackle inactivity and improve health outcomes.

Plans have been put forward to redevelop and refurbish the existing Wonford Community and Leisure Centre into a new integrated wellbeing hub, with councillors set to decide on a £6,000,000 funding package.

The proposal, outlined in a report to council, would combine existing services into one building, including a gym, studio, café, community spaces and new changing facilities.

The scheme is expected to be considered at a council meeting on Tuesday, March 24.

If approved, the project would be funded through a combination of £2,000,000 from Sport England, up to £2,920,269 from Community Infrastructure Levy funding, and £1,079,731 from section 106 developer contributions.

The council has been working with Sport England since 2018, with the hub forming a key part of its wider strategy to reduce health inequalities and increase physical activity.

The report highlights that the area experiences some of the poorest health outcomes and highest levels of inactivity in the city, with the new facility intended to provide improved access to sport, leisure and community services.

Plans include demolishing parts of the existing site, including the gym, Phoenix Centre and outdoor changing rooms, before constructing a new integrated hub with Football Association-standard changing facilities.

The redesigned site would feature a four-court sports hall, a 53-station gym, a studio, consultation room, café, meeting rooms and accessible changing areas.

Planning permission for the wider scheme was granted in 2025 following community engagement and design work, although revised plans have reduced the overall cost to align with available funding.

If funding is agreed, procurement is expected to begin later in 2026, with construction starting in February 2027 and completion scheduled for July 2028.

The report states the redevelopment could significantly reduce the current annual deficit associated with running the existing facilities, which is estimated at around £275,000 per year.

Forecasts suggest the new hub would move towards a more sustainable financial position within five years, potentially generating a surplus.

However, the project remains dependent on securing full funding approval and resolving existing lease agreements on the site. The report warns that failure to approve the budget could result in the loss of the £2,000,000 Sport England contribution.

Without investment, the report states the current buildings would continue to incur significant costs and may eventually face closure.

Cash injection could kickstart long-awaited overhaul of sports hub

Lewis Clarke
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Cash injection could kickstart long-awaited overhaul of sports hub

Plans to transform a well-used city sports ground into a modern community hub have taken a step forward, with councillors set to decide on a major funding boost that could unlock millions more for the project.

Exeter City Council is being asked to approve up to £464,948 in funding to support improvements at King George V Playing Fields, as part of a wider £4.09 million scheme led by Exeter City Community Trust. The investment would contribute towards a new all-weather 3G pitch, upgraded facilities and new play zones.

A report due before councillors on Tuesday, March 24 outlines how the funding, drawn from developer contributions known as section 106 agreements, would help secure significant match funding from the Football Foundation. Without the council’s contribution, there is a risk the wider project could be delayed or not go ahead.

The proposals include the construction of a new artificial grass pitch, two multi-use play zones and the refurbishment of the existing pavilion. Plans also cover improved changing rooms, accessible facilities, increased parking and upgrades to public toilets.

The total project cost is estimated at £4,096,633, with around £3.5 million already secured or pending approval. Key contributors include the Football Foundation, which has pledged £2 million, and Exeter City Community Trust, which is providing £1.2 million. Any remaining shortfall would be covered by the trust.

The council report highlights that the site is one of the city’s main outdoor sports hubs, currently hosting multiple football pitches, tennis courts and play areas. However, natural grass surfaces are often unusable during wetter months due to drainage issues, limiting access and leading to cancelled matches.

The development aims to address a recognised shortage of artificial grass pitches in Exeter, identified in both local and national sports strategies. It is also intended to support greater participation in sport, including opportunities for women, girls and disability football.

Community engagement carried out ahead of the plans found strong support for the project, particularly for reliable year-round playing surfaces and expanded opportunities for young people and grassroots teams.

If approved, the funding would need to be committed quickly, with some contributions tied to deadlines in April 2026. The council report notes that no alternative projects have been identified that meet the same criteria for the use of these funds.

The site has recently been leased to Exeter KGV Limited, a company wholly owned by Exeter City Community Trust, which will oversee the delivery and long-term management of the upgraded facilities.

The first phase of works is expected to focus on the new pitch, pavilion improvements and play zones, forming the foundation of a wider programme to enhance the site as a community sports destination.

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