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Fears grow over Duchy land sale as council eyes community buyback

Lewis Clarke
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Fears grow over Duchy land sale as council eyes community buyback

Concerns are mounting over the future of key community spaces after plans emerged to sell off land and property, with reassurances offered that efforts are under way to keep valued areas in local hands.

Bradninch Town Council said it had met with a representative from the Duchy of Cornwall to discuss proposals to sell land and property within the town.

In a statement, the council said it welcomed what it described as a more open and constructive dialogue following recent communications that had caused concern among residents.

The Duchy has confirmed it intends to sell its Bradninch assets over the coming months, with current tenants to be contacted directly about their individual options.

The council said it had been reassured it would have the opportunity to purchase key community assets, including the allotments, Charwell Wetlands and the football field.

It added that it had been encouraged by indications the Duchy is willing to work with the authority to help ensure these spaces remain in community use.

The statement continued: “While there are still many details to understand, we want to reassure residents that we are actively exploring all available options, including funding routes, to secure the best possible outcomes for Bradninch.

“We are committed to keeping the community informed as more information becomes available.”

Bradninch Town Council said it now looks forward to working positively with the Duchy of Cornwall and will support any residents who may be affected by the changes.

It added: “If you have concerns or require support, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us.”

Housebuilder spreads Easter joy with growing charity donation drive

Devon Today
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Housebuilder spreads Easter joy with growing charity donation drive

A box of chocolate treats is helping to deliver more than just sweetness this Easter, as a housebuilder steps in to support families facing hardship.

Allison Homes South West has donated Easter eggs to Churches Housing Action Team (CHAT) for the third consecutive year, supporting individuals and families in need across Mid Devon.

Staff collected the eggs before delivering them to the charity’s Tiverton food bank ahead of the Easter period, with this year’s donation exceeding previous efforts.

Holly Reid, fundraising manager at CHAT, said: “We’d like to say a big thank you to everyone at Allison Homes South West for their continued support. Easter eggs go a long way in bringing a little joy to children and families who need it the most.”

The initiative forms part of the company’s ongoing support for the charity, which provides assistance to people experiencing hunger and housing difficulties.

Glyn Mabey, managing director of Allison Homes South West, said: “We’re proud to support CHAT again this year, and the important work they do to help people across Mid Devon facing difficult circumstances.

“Donating Easter eggs is a simple way for our team to come together and help local families over the Easter period.”

CHAT, which is based in Tiverton, also carries out outreach work in Crediton, Cullompton and Uffculme. The charity offers free advice on housing, debt and money management, alongside practical support through its food bank, pantry and provision of essential household items.

Allison Homes South West is currently building new homes at Tarka Coombe in Landkey, Barnstaple, and High Moor View in Winkleigh. The company is also delivering affordable homes at partnership sites in Tiverton and Witheridge.

More information about the housebuilder is available at www.allison-homes.co.uk.

New Plymouth home offers lifeline to people sleeping on streets

Devon Today
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New Plymouth home offers lifeline to people sleeping on streets

A new supported home is offering a fresh start to some of the city’s most vulnerable residents, providing not just a roof over their heads but a pathway away from life on the streets.

A homelessness charity has opened a specialist property designed for people who have been sleeping rough, marking a further step in efforts to tackle rising homelessness.

The house, run by Path, is the third Multi-Agency Rough Sleeper (MARS) property in Plymouth. It was purchased in December 2025 and has been adapted to provide private en-suite rooms for residents who have experienced long-term homelessness, often alongside health issues, trauma and complex needs.

The project has been commissioned by Plymouth City Council and funded through the Government’s Single Homelessness Accommodation Programme, alongside the charity’s own funds. The building has undergone safety and accessibility improvements and has been furnished to prepare it for residents.

Each person living at the property will receive support from a dedicated worker to help them move towards independence and longer-term housing.

Becky Saxton, head of housing at Path, said: “For many residents of our new house, this will be the first time in years that they have had a place of their own.

“Somewhere they can begin to feel secure and rebuild their lives.

“This project reflects Path’s commitment to working alongside partners to create genuinely life-changing housing opportunities for some of the most vulnerable people in our community.”

The accommodation is reserved for people who have been sleeping rough and are referred through Path’s outreach team. Facilities include private bedrooms with a kitchenette and television, a shared kitchen-diner, laundry facilities and a courtyard.

Staff are present throughout the day, with structured activities such as cooking, gardening and budgeting sessions aimed at rebuilding confidence and practical skills.

The service is designed as a first step away from homelessness, with residents supported to move into less supported housing or private rented accommodation when they are ready.

One resident, Paul, described the impact of the support as life-changing. After becoming homeless following a relationship breakdown and later struggling with drug use, he said moving into the property marked a turning point.

Paul said: “If it was not for them and this house, I would probably be back on the streets living that life again.

“I do not think I would be where I am today.”

Path supported 421 people sleeping rough in Plymouth last year and now provides accommodation for 20 people across its three MARS houses. The charity said the city is facing a growing housing crisis, with rough sleeping having doubled since 2023.

In 2024, the organisation helped almost 1,700 people experiencing homelessness.

Councillor Chris Penberthy, cabinet member for housing, communities and cooperative development, said: “Solving the problem of rough sleeping takes more than just providing a door, a roof and a bed for people.

“To break the cycle of rough sleeping, people need the time and support necessary to help them maintain accommodation and thrive.

“I have had the privilege of meeting some of Path’s residents and team and have seen for myself the difference that is made in transforming lives.”

More information about the charity’s work is available at www.pathdevon.org.

Torbay health centre marks 50 years of caring for community

Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust
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Torbay health centre marks 50 years of caring for community

Castle Circus Health Centre is celebrating 50 years of caring for the people of Torbay and South Devon, marking the anniversary of its opening on 31 March 1976.

The centre was formally opened by the Worshipful the Mayor of Torbay, Councillor John Farrell OBE, and has been a trusted and familiar part of the town ever since. For half a century, it has supported generations of local people at every stage of their lives, evolving continually to meet changing health needs.

In its early years, the centre supported services such as mother and baby clinics, offering vital support to young families. Over time, the range of care delivered from Castle Circus has grown significantly.

Today, the building is home to a wide mix of essential community and outpatient services, including Neuropsychology, Children’s Speech and Language Therapy, the Blue Badge Service, Podiatry and Orthotics, Community Dental Services and Sexual Health Services. Clinics also run for Lower Limb Therapy Services, Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) screening, adult and paediatric Bladder and Bowel Services, foot clinics and Drug and Alcohol Services. Bringing so many services together under one roof helps ensure joined‑up, accessible care for people across Torbay and South Devon.

Anna Pryor, Baywide Community Services Support Manager and manager of Castle Circus Health Centre, said: “Castle Circus is a really special place to work. It’s a busy building and always has been, but there’s a real sense of purpose here. Over the years the services have changed, but what hasn’t changed is the commitment of the people who work in the building. Everyone plays their part in keeping things running and making sure people feel supported when they come through the doors.”

Joe Teape, Chief Executive of Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust added: “Castle Circus Health Centre is such an important part of the care we provide to our community, and what makes Castle Circus so important isn’t just the building, but the people working within it. The teams here do a huge amount every day, often behind the scenes, to support people with their care.”

To mark the milestone, staff at Castle Circus Health Centre held a small celebration, attended by Joe Teape and Chair Chris Balch, who shared their thanks and reflections, along with a slice of cake. The Trust extends its thanks to Torbay and South Devon NHS Charity for generously funding the cakes and refreshments.

The anniversary is an opportunity to recognise the dedication and professionalism of the many colleagues, volunteers, partner organisations and patients who have been part of Castle Circus Health Centre’s story during the past five decades. Castle Circus hasn’t stood still; it has changed with Torquay and continues to meet the needs of local people today.

If you worked in Castle Circus at some point during the past 50 years and have a story to share, please contact the communications team at Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust tsdft.communicationsteam@nhs.net.

Young voices rise as pupils lead climate change call to action in assembly

Devon Today
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Young voices rise as pupils lead climate change call to action in assembly

Pupils stepped into the spotlight to deliver a powerful message on climate change, taking charge of a school-wide assembly designed to inform and inspire their peers.

Students at Dartmouth Academy, part of Education South West, led the event themselves, highlighting the causes and impacts of climate change while encouraging practical steps towards more sustainable living. The assembly focused on raising awareness and prompting everyday action among the wider school community.

The presentations explored environmental challenges and offered guidance on how individuals can make a difference through small but meaningful changes. Staff said the initiative demonstrated teamwork, creativity and leadership among the pupils involved.

Paul Girardot, principal at Dartmouth Academy, said: “We are incredibly proud of our pupils for taking the initiative to lead this assembly. Their passion and commitment to environmental issues is inspiring, and it demonstrates the positive impact young people can have when given the platform to lead.”

Matthew Shanks, CEO of Education South West, said: “It’s fantastic to see student leadership in action. The assembly not only raised awareness about climate change but also empowered pupils to take responsibility for their communities and the planet. This is exactly the kind of proactive citizenship we aim to nurture across all our schools.”

Staff added that giving pupils the opportunity to lead discussions on global issues forms part of the school’s wider commitment to encouraging environmental responsibility and active citizenship.

Fury as plans to dump waste in Devon countryside face backlash

CPRE Devon
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Fury as plans to dump waste in Devon countryside face backlash

Devon CPRE has made a scathing objection to a proposal for a waste import site at Rackenford in North Devon, which residents have fiercely opposed, gaining over 900 signatures on an online petition site. A Devon councillor has also spoken out strongly against the proposed development because of the negative impact it will have on the environment, wildlife and road safety.

With the backing of Devon CPRE and County Councillor Richard Hopley, residents are calling on Devon County Council to refuse a planning application for what’s described by the applicant as an ‘inert waste import and land-raising’ operation at East Nutcott Farm, Rackenford (planning application number DCC/4451/2025).

The proposed facility would bring 444,000 cubic meters (663,000 tonnes) of building waste into a peaceful rural landscape. The site lies close to the Little Dart River, within a “high sensitivity” landscape, due to its proximity to the North Devon Coast National Landscape, Culm Grassland Special Area of Conservation, Rackenford Moor Site of Special Scientific Interest, and its location within the North Devon Biosphere Reserve.

Devon CPRE’s objection says, ‘Despite being described as “landscape-led”, the development is a large-scale waste importation and land engineering operation. The scheme is fundamentally waste-led.’

The proposal is described as being delivered in phases. Devon CPRE points out that no clear phasing strategy is provided within the submitted documentation, and that this lack of detail further undermines confidence in the proposal and its potential impacts: “There is no clearly defined or enforceable phasing plan. It is not evident how much of the site would be worked at any one time, and there is no phasing strategy supported by robust information on vehicle movements, soil handling, or restoration methodology. This undermines the conclusions of the Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (LVIA), and conflicts with the requirements of [several] Policies, which require clear and demonstrable enhancement of landscape character.”

The village of Rackenford is surrounded by narrow country lanes, which Devon CPRE and residents say are wholly unsuitable for the sustained heavy goods vehicle traffic the development would necessitate.

Devon CPRE concludes that the site is completely unsuitable for the type of activities proposed and that they would harm the landscape and road safety:

“Residents raise significant concerns regarding the adequacy of the evidence base and the environmental and highway impacts of the proposal. They argue that the development would result in long-term disruption, safety risks, and environmental harm, with no clear or proportionate community benefit.

“The proposal would involve substantial landform alteration and prolonged construction activity within a high-value landscape. Any claimed benefits are uncertain, insufficiently defined, and not secured through the application. The supporting technical assessments contain limitations and rely on assumptions rather than robust, site-specific evidence.

“On this basis, the application is considered contrary to a number of policies, including the North Devon and Torridge Local Plan Policies, ST14 and  DM08/8A, and the Devon Waste Local Plan Policies W3, W11 and W12, as it fails to adequately demonstrate conservation and enhancement of landscape character and tranquillity. It is a waste-led development supported by insufficient technical evidence, and the application should be refused.”

Devon County Councillor Richard Hopley, South Molton, which covers the parish of Rackenford, says, “This application will be absolutely devastating for local communities. An average of 66 HGVs a day travelling along our country lanes and through local villages for four years will see the further decline of our roads and verges, and impact wildlife, the environment, people’s lives and health and pose a danger to other road users, especially walkers and cyclists.

“Why is it necessary to deposit 660,000 tons of soil to re-landscape? I would question what materials will be contained within that ‘soil’. Will there be invasive plants? Will the ground become contaminated? What would happen in four years if the company went into liquidation, leaving a complete mess of the surrounding environment? This application should be refused. It is of benefit to no one other than the applicant.” 

The petition site set up by residents is continuing to gain signatures:Petition · Oppose the waste import site at East Nutcott Farm, Rackenford DCC/4451/2025 – United Kingdom · Change.org

Devon fundraiser praised after raising cash for end of life care

Devon Today
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Devon fundraiser praised after raising cash for end of life care

A Devon woman who went back to her fundraising roots is among the more than 200 people across the county being thanked by leading end of life charity Marie Curie for collecting donations during its biggest annual fundraiser.  

Kathy Beauchamp, 72, from Westward Ho! North Devon first supported the charity back in her school days, and this year signed up for a supermarket collection during the charity’s Great Daffodil Appeal, which marked its 40th year this March.  

Looking back at her start in fundraising, she said: “I was at Hurlingham School for Girls in Parsons Green, London and I was in the Marie Curie house. 

“Every Christmas we had the little like stamps and the gift tag stickers we used to have to sell, you know, and I remember particularly one year – 1964 to 1971 I was in this school – one year I actually raised five pounds, which in those days was a lot of money.” 

She said through the years since her schooling, she continued to get the stickers until she moved but would continue to donate each time she saw a Marie Curie tin. 
 
When she spotted a call requesting collector volunteers this year for the charity’s biggest annual fundraiser, she immediately signed up to collect at Morrisons in Bideford, raising £83.81. 
 
She said collecting made her think of family, but also those people who would get support from Marie Curie due to her fundraising. 
 
“For some people, it might be the only help they get because they perhaps haven’t got family or family live too far away,” she said. 

“It’s something that’s dear to my heart.  I would like to continue to collect for the charity.” 

Kathy was among 217 collector volunteers across Devon who have so far raised £14,000 for the charity during this year’s Great Daffodil Appeal.  In Plymouth, more than £5,500 has been raised across several collections, while a Lions group in Budleigh Salterton raised around £500.  Volunteers in Tiverton Morrisons raised £2660, with thousands raised by other volunteers across the county. 

The Great Daffodil Appeal encourages everyone to wear their daffodil pins and donate through the month of February and March to help Marie Curie bring expert end of life care to more people. 

Paul Chuckle on the charity tour

The charity’s flagship fundraiser helps raise much needed funds so that Marie Curie Nurses and healthcare professionals can provide expert support and hospice care in the comfort of home.  The charity also provides support via its information and support services, including a Support Line.   

Riona Houghton, Marie Curie Community Fundraiser for Devon, said: ““We believe everyone deserves expert end of life care, no matter the illness, no matter where they live.  
 
“Without supporters like Kathy helping us collect during our 40th Great Daffodil Appeal we cannot continue to fundraise for the cause. 

“Volunteering is so rewarding and a great way to give back to your local community.  I’d like to thank all those who have given their time to support something amazing and help Marie Curie continue to provide expert end of life care and support for people with any illness they are likely to die from, and their loved ones.”  

There’s only one chance to give someone the best possible end of life. This Great Daffodil Appeal help give people the care they need. To donate visit: Mariecurie.org.uk/daffodil    

Local milk revival as Southwest dairy expands into Devon retailers

Devon Today
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Local milk revival as Southwest dairy expands into Devon retailers

A growing appetite for fresh, locally sourced milk is reshaping what shoppers pick up in stores, as a Southwest dairy expands its reach into more independent outlets across Devon.

Somerset-based Tom Parker Creamery is increasing its presence across the county, with its range of milk and cream products now being stocked in petrol stations, retail forecourts, farm shops, delis and cafés.

The move comes through a partnership with Hunts Foodservice, allowing the creamery to supply a wider network of independent businesses that serve local communities.

The company said the expansion reflects strong demand from both retailers and customers for fresh whole milk, rather than long-life alternatives.

Rob Yates, managing director of Tom Parker Creamery, said: “Across the Southwest we are seeing a real appetite for proper, fresh whole milk.

“UHT milk simply is not what many local customers want to buy, and independent retailers tell us the same thing.

“People here care about provenance, freshness and supporting local producers.”

The creamery produces its milk using traditional methods designed to preserve its natural qualities. Products are sold in glass bottles with paper labels, reflecting what the business describes as a commitment to sustainability and its heritage.

Milk is sourced from farms within a 90-mile radius, with the company employing 25 people locally and keeping its supply chain close to home.

Rob added: “Getting our milk into Southwest shops, cafés and businesses just feels right.

“These are businesses run by people who care about quality and about supporting their local economy.

“That is exactly what we care about too.”

The products are now appearing in a range of outlets where customers actively seek out regional food and drink, including roadside forecourts and village shops across Devon.

The creamery said the region is well suited to its approach, as demand for minimally processed and locally produced food continues to grow.

Alongside its retail expansion, the business is also supporting grassroots sport across the Southwest. This includes sponsoring Wincanton under-12s and working with Yeovil Town Football Club, where players will be supplied with products from next season.

The company said the partnership reflects its commitment to investing in local communities while expanding its presence across the region.

Huge plan to bring thousands of homes to Plymouth city centre

Plymouth City Council
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Huge plan to bring thousands of homes to Plymouth city centre

A major new phase in shaping Plymouth’s future is about to begin, with residents now being invited to sign up and be part of the conversation about how the city centre could evolve into a vibrant place to live.  

Engagement on the City Living Framework will begin shortly after the local election in May, but the groundwork is already being laid to ensure that people across Plymouth are ready, informed and able to get involved from day one. 

This next step follows the appointment of global placemaking specialists WSP, who are leading work on a new development framework and masterplan that will explore how underused areas of the city centre could be transformed into sustainable neighbourhoods with thousands of new homes, green streets and lively public spaces. Their role includes launching a new digital engagement site – the starting point for a platform that will grow and evolve as the project develops, offering updates, event information and opportunities for residents to have their say.  

The engagement approach is designed to be active, visible and connected to the communities it serves. Instead of traditional consultation confined to meeting rooms, the masterplanning team will be out across the city, speaking with people directly – from long-standing neighbourhood groups to first time renters, businesses, students, families and organisations representing Plymouth’s diverse communities. This reflects the Council’s commitment to ensuring residents are at the heart of shaping the vision and have many opportunities to contribute throughout the process. A formal public consultation on the draft vision and masterplan is also planned for Autumn 2026. 

Councillor Tudor Evans, Leader of Plymouth City Council, said:  “This is a game-changing moment for Plymouth. We’ve made huge strides improving our city centre, but the missing piece has always been housing – homes that bring life, energy and people back into the heart of our city. 

“It is really important that local Plymouth people have the ability to live in the city centre again, after an 80‑year gap. So we want to hear from people who might be buying or renting in the city centre in the future, because their voices will shape what this looks like. 

“What excites me most is the way we’re doing this. This isn’t a plan written behind closed doors. The masterplanning team will be out across Plymouth meeting people, hearing different voices and making sure our communities shape what comes next. 

“I want everyone who cares about Plymouth’s future to sign up, get involved, and help us build a city centre that truly works for everyone. 

“Since their appointment, the team have been working through the ‘discover phase’ to make sure that they properly understand the city and its strengths, weaknesses and opportunities. Rest assured, no plans for development will be prepared until engagement commences and the project moves to the ‘define’ stage. We are committed to a co‑design process, and that means understanding what people want before plans are drafted.” 

Jim Coleman, WSP Chief Economist, said: “It is an immense pleasure to be leading the expert team developing Plymouth’s City Living Framework. This unique city is critical to the UK’s future defence, and this evolving role provides  the much sought-after opportunity to reimagine Plymouth city centre, making it an attractive and enjoyable place for those who have spent their entire lives here, and those who are yet to come.” 

Glenn Howells, Howells Architects, said: ‘’I strongly believe Plymouth is at a pivotal point in its history and I am excited and privileged to be part of the team to help unlock its huge potential to be one of Europe’s most thriving and liveable cities.’’  

Alex Ely, Mae Architects, added: “We are excited by opportunity to reimagine the city centre as a desirable place to live. Through design we can enhance the parts that work and repair and remake the places that don’t.’’  

The City Living Framework is part of a wider ambition, supported by Homes England, to deliver up to 10,000 new homes in and around the city centre and bring forward a bold new chapter for Plymouth. As the engagement platform goes live, residents, businesses and stakeholders are encouraged to sign up now so they can follow progress, join events and help shape proposals as they emerge.  

To sign up to find out more, go to: https://plymouthcityliving.commonplace.is/  

Ilfracombe pupils become citizen scientists to safeguard rivers

Devon Today
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Ilfracombe pupils become citizen scientists to safeguard rivers

Young people have stepped into the role of environmental guardians after completing specialist training to help monitor the health of local rivers.

Students from The Ilfracombe Academy, part of Athena Learning Trust, have been recognised for their work assessing water quality as part of a wider initiative aimed at protecting North Devon’s waterways.

The group took part in Earth Action North Devon’s Ocean Explorer Academy programme, where they received training delivered by the Westcountry Rivers Trust. The charity focuses on restoring and protecting freshwater habitats across the region.

Through the programme, pupils learned how to assess and record water quality in rivers and streams. The training means they are now able to contribute as “citizen scientists”, gathering data to help build a clearer picture of the condition of local waterways.

Earth Action North Devon highlighted the importance of the initiative, noting that 84 per cent of water bodies in the area are currently classified as being in poor or moderate ecological condition, according to the latest assessments.

The Ilfracombe Academy has been expanding opportunities for students to engage with environmental issues, including the launch of an Eco Club in partnership with Earth Action North Devon last year.

The Ocean Explorer Academy works with young people across North Devon, aiming to deepen understanding of environmental challenges while encouraging participation in conservation work and future careers linked to the natural environment.

Headteacher Steve Rogers said: “We’re really proud of our students for completing this training and becoming citizen scientists.

“It’s a great opportunity for them to contribute to something that really matters locally, while developing valuable skills and knowledge about the environment.”

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