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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.

New Paignton hub offers lifeline for care experienced young people

Torbay Council
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New Paignton hub offers lifeline for care experienced young people

Care experienced young people in Torbay aged 16 to 25 can now access a brand new ‘hub’ which not only provides a welcoming social space but can also support them in education, skills, employment and wellbeing.

The brand new hub, which is based at, The Flat, Mayfield College, Preston Down Road Paignton TQ3 1RN, was officially opened on Monday 16 March by Councillor Nick Bye, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services and Nancy Meehan, Director of Children’s Services at Torbay Council.

Staff at the council and a range of local volunteers pulled out all the stops to decorate the hub in a short space of time.

Cllr Bye said: “I am absolutely delighted to officially launch this fantastic new hub which will make such a vital difference to the lives of our care experienced young people.

“The hub has been carefully chosen to ensure it is easy to access for young people, with on-site parking and outdoor spaces that support both wellbeing and informal social connection. Our vision is to create a safe, welcoming and aspirational space where young people feel valued, supported and empowered to shape their futures.

“I am very pleased to say as well that within the first day of opening, the hub has already helped two of our young people who were not in education, employment or training, with one being offered a place with the King’s Trust and the other being offered a place at South Devon College.”

The new hub aims to provide: 

A safe space with purpose

The hub will be a central base for delivering targeted sessions, with a strong focus on supporting NEET young people. Work from the hub will be underpinned by a personalised curriculum and pathway plan, ensuring support is tailored to individual strengths, ambitions and needs. This approach will help young people build confidence, skills and clear next steps into education, employment or training.

The hub will also be a safe space for young people to come and relax; we will hold social events regularly including sports sessions and specific workshops like cooking and budgeting. Alongside it being available for care experienced young people to do their washing and freshen up if needed with our shower. There will also be a wellbeing check in available as well as virtual school support.

Daily drop-ins and community connections

A key feature of the hub will be a daily drop-in, offering consistent support and a trusted place young people can return to. The team will work closely with community resources and partners, strengthening local links and ensuring young people can easily access wider opportunities and specialist support.

Supporting immediate needs

The hub will also host a mini food bank, baby bank and clothes bank, helping to meet immediate practical needs in a dignified and accessible way.

Donations needed for care experienced hub

Donations are needed to help keep the hub going so if you are able to donate the following please do:

  • Food – especially chilled and dry food
  • Cleaning products
  • Toiletries including period products
  • Men’s clothing
  • Easter eggs
  • Board games

Items can either be dropped off at the hub itself at The Flat, Mayfield College, Preston Down Road Paignton TQ3 1RN or at the Torbay Council Town Hall reception at Castle Circus, Torquay.

Plymouth groups awarded grants to protect and celebrate marine park

Plymouth City Council
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Plymouth groups awarded grants to protect and celebrate marine park

Plymouth Sound National Marine Park (PSNMP) has awarded ten community groups funding through its new Blue Sparks Community Grants Programme, supporting projects that help more people connect with, enjoy and protect Plymouth Sound. 

The scheme, delivered by PSNMP and supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, will run for the next three years. It will help grassroots organisations develop ideas that improve access to the water, deepen understanding of blue spaces, and celebrate Plymouth’s maritime heritage. Grants of up to £2,500 and in special cases £5,000, are available. This year, £40,000 has been allocated to ten successful applicants. 

This year’s ten Blue Sparks grants have been awarded to: 

BBSB Community Forum, Precious Plastic Plymouth & Tavistock CIC, Open Kamera CIC, Ethical Activities CIC, Fotonow CIC, Federation of Old Cornwall Societies, East End Development Trust, Big Sis CIC, Turnchapel History Group and BluGreens CIC. 

Each project will help communities engage with Plymouth Sound in new ways, from creative heritage activities to improvements to local blue spaces. Earlier this month each of the projects got a chance to meet at Tinside pool, bringing together a cross-section of the community from Plymouth Sound, spanning both Devon and Cornwall.  

One of the selected projects, Kelp Regen, led by Plymouth-based BluGreens, is an applied innovation initiative integrating seaweed cultivation into harbour environments. Using dormant harbour infrastructure during winter months, the project aims to improve water quality while producing organic soil enhancers that reduce reliance on synthetic fertilisers, supporting a circular bluegreen economy. Alongside the cultivation work, BluGreens will deliver community outreach and educational activities focused on sustainable ocean practices. 

Another funded initiative Precious Plastic Plymouth and Tavistock CIC will be delivering a Creative Beach Clean & Recycling Challenge, an imaginative, hands-on project connecting people with Plymouth Sound National Marine Park through creativity, science, and community action. 

Participants will transform waste into new products using our pedal-powered plastic shredder and mini-injection moulder, turning local litter into functional, beautiful items such as door handles, small pots, or buttons. These hands-on sessions are energising and empowering: people literally pedal their waste into something new.

Dr Kate Crawford from Precious Plastic Plymouth, commented; “The team are excited to be part of the Blue Sparks program. We are looking forward to meeting the other Sparks and getting busy recycling ocean plastics with the people of Plymouth.”

Lastly Barne Barton and St Budeaux Community Forum will be using Blue Sparks funding to develop a creative community engagement project that will reconnect residents with Kinterbury Creek, a hidden blue space in Barne Barton, through storytelling, seasonal events, and the creation of a digital archive. It will link into a wider Blue/Green theme for the year across the community, forming one part of a series of connected projects

Each grant is unique and offers a different connection to the marine park, reaching out in turn to wide demographic, through various innovative and transformational projects.

Stuart McLeod, Director England – London & South at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, said: “It’s fantastic to hear about the exciting projects that have been awarded a community grant. Each one will make a real difference in sharing the heritage of Plymouth and its connection to the sea. Investing in heritage means investing in the people and communities it belongs to. That’s why we’re proud to support the Blue Sparks Community Grants Programme as part of our continued partnership with Plymouth Sound National Marine Park, thanks to National Lottery players.”

Councillor Tom Briars-Delve, Cabinet Member for Environment and Climate Change, said: “The Blue Sparks grants are a fantastic way for local groups to get involved with Plymouth Sound National Marine Park, bringing community-led projects to life that help people enjoy, learn about and protect the waters on our doorstep. Whether it’s getting young people involved in ocean activities or celebrating our maritime heritage, this programme will help more people connect with the Sound in new ways.”

Covering over 8,600 hectares of ocean, estuaries and coastline, the National Marine Park is home to thousands of marine species and plays a vital role in Plymouth’s identity and future. Through community projects, learning opportunities and initiatives like Blue Sparks, the National Marine Park is working to ensure Plymouth’s marine environment is protected and celebrated for generations to come.

For more information on each grant visit our website.  

Families invited to enjoy free Easter fun at Northam Burrows

Torridge District Council
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Families invited to enjoy free Easter fun at Northam Burrows

Enjoy the fresh air this Easter with a variety of free exciting activities at Northam Burrows, organised by our dedicated Rangers. From little ones to grown‑ups, there’s something for every member of the family to enjoy.

  • Events kick off on Tuesday 7 April with a Rockpool Ramble. Find our Rangers near the Westward Ho! Slipway between 2pm and 4pm to discover the strange and wonderful creatures that hide in the rockpools.
  • On Thursday 9 April, join the Rangers on the beach near Sandymere Bridge for a Strandline Scavenger Hunt. Drop in between 2pm and 4pm and see what treasures the tide has washed ashore.
  • Head to the Northam Burrows Visitor Centre on Tuesday 14 April for a relaxed Dandelion Art Session with local artist Greshna Dibble. Drop in anytime between 2pm and 4pm to create nature‑inspired artwork.
  • On Thursday 16 April, meet at the Northam Burrows Visitor Centre at 2pm for the Tracks and Signs Guided Walk. This family‑friendly walk explores the diverse habitats in Northam Burrows and teaches you how to spot the clues left behind by local wildlife.

There will also be an egg-themed self‑guided trail around the dunes, with free maps available from the Visitor Centre, along with a spotter sheet to help families explore and discover even more during their visit.

No booking is required for any of the organised events, but children must be accompanied by an adult and appropriate clothing and footwear is advised. Visitors are also welcome to bring their own drinks and snacks. Meeting places vary so please check out all the details at https://www.torridge.gov.uk/northamburrows or on Torridge District Council’s website and posters on social media.

Councillor Cheryl Cottle-Hunkin, Lead Member for Culture and Community Engagement at Torridge District Council, said: “Our brilliant Rangers have created a wide variety of free, hands‑on activities that are perfect for keeping children entertained throughout the Easter holidays. It’s a great chance for families to get outside, enjoy the fresh air and learn more about the wonderful wildlife of Northam Burrows. You’ll head home with a deeper understanding of the area, and maybe even some new nature‑detective skills to show off!”

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