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County Hall site could be turned into housing

Devon County Council
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County Hall site could be turned into housing

Devon County Council Cabinet members will be asked to give the green light to exploring innovative housing solutions for people who need it most.

The Matford Offices site at County Hall, Exeter, which has been declared surplus, was formerly used as council offices and includes a small area of public open space.

The recommendation being put to Cabinet is that development of the site to support the Council’s strategic Priorities is agreed.

The recommendations also include safeguards to protect trees and a green corridor between the site and Matford Lane and retain key walking routes.

Aligned to the Housing Position statement endorsed by Cabinet in December 2025, which highlighted the serious shortage of affordable, good quality housing in Devon, this proposal seeks to use the Council’s assets for the provision of much needed housing, aligned with the Council’s Strategic Priorities.

Councillor Julian Brazil, Leader of the Council, said: “This decision is about using council land in a way that supports people who need housing the most. By prioritising care leaver housing, key worker accommodation (including for teachers and nurses) and affordable homes, we are aligning our assets with our wider responsibilities and strategic priorities.”

Learners praised at Devon regenerative farming centre

Lewis Clarke
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Learners praised at Devon regenerative farming centre

‘Learners produce work of a high standard’ and ‘almost all learners achieve their qualifications’ at a small regenerative farming provider in south Devon that Ofsted has judged to be meeting expected standards overall, with adult learning programmes rated a strong standard.

Apricot Centre CIC, based at Huxhams Cross Farm, was inspected on 14 January. The not-for-profit community interest company offers Skills Bootcamps for adults in regenerative land-based systems at level 2, and at levels 3 and 4 in agroecological system design. At the time of inspection, there were 45 learners enrolled across the three programmes.

Inspectors found that safeguarding standards are met. The report states: “The safeguarding standards are met. This means that leaders and/or those responsible for governance and oversight fulfil their specific responsibilities and have established an open culture in which safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility and concerns are actively identified, acted upon and managed. As a result, learners are made safer and feel safe.”

Inclusion and leadership were judged to meet the expected standard. Inspectors said: “Leaders and staff have established a culture of inclusion in which learners’ academic and personal needs are met in a relaxed and purposeful learning environment.”

They added that leaders and managers “accurately identify learners’ learning and support needs at the start of their course and implement adjustments to help overcome barriers to learning,” including adapting materials for those with neurodiversity and visual impairment and adjusting timetables for learners with childcare responsibilities.

However, the report notes that while staff “monitor most learners’ progress closely and implement any adaptations needed, they do not do so consistently well for every learner.”

Leaders were praised for securing additional funding “from a variety of sources” to increase staffing and build “a new accessible classroom and teaching facility for learners”. They have also introduced bursaries and incidental financial support “so that any learner can afford to participate in the learning programmes.”

On leadership and governance, inspectors said leaders are “very clear about the aims and objectives of their short and long courses in regenerative agriculture, agroecology and sustainability” and “frequently review how well they meet the courses’ aims and adjust the curriculum content accordingly.”

The governing body is described as having “appropriate farming and charity sector experience”, providing “appropriate support and challenge.”

Adult learning programmes were rated a strong standard, particularly for achievement. Inspectors reported: “Learners, including those with barriers to their learning, make substantial progress from their starting points and rapidly develop the skills needed to implement regenerative farming strategies. Almost all learners achieve their qualifications, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities.”

The quality of learners’ work also drew praise. “Learners produce work of a high standard. Their planning, design and implementation of permaculture and agroecological proposals are frequently at a level much higher than that required by the qualification specifications. Learners’ proposals are being implemented effectively, typically in agricultural settings.”

Teaching was highlighted as a strength. “Teachers are highly experienced industry experts in regenerative agriculture. They are passionate about the subject and bring their enthusiasm and expertise effectively to the classroom.”

Inspectors noted that teachers make frequent use of the on-site farm so learners can see theory applied “in a real-world setting” and that they “encourage learners to ask questions and share their own experiences, which builds each learners’ confidence quickly.”

The report also paints a positive picture of learners’ experiences: “Learners experience a welcoming, supportive and inclusive learning environment at Apricot’s working farm, where they are taught. They value their studies and the positive impact it has on their work and careers. They enjoy and are motivated by their learning because the curriculums are rich in content and vocational.”

Nevertheless, inspectors identified areas for improvement. Leaders are advised to ensure that teachers “maintain the focus on the topics being taught during field trips”, that “all learners receive tailored careers advice and guidance from the start of their programmes”, and that teachers “monitor each learner’s progress systematically.”

Schools tackle Devon dental desert with new programme

Devon Today
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Schools tackle Devon dental desert with new programme

Schools across Devon are tackling what has been described as a growing “dental desert” by training staff to help children develop better oral health habits.

Education South West has launched a new Dental Champions programme through its community hub network, with school staff trained to support pupils and families with practical dental health education.

The initiative comes as many families across the county face difficulties accessing routine dentistry. By embedding dental education within schools and community hubs, the trust hopes to help children learn healthy habits from an early age and provide support where services are limited.

A dental health educator demonstrates tooth structure and brushing techniques using a model during a training session for school staff.
(Credit : Education South West)

Under the scheme, members of staff from Education South West schools are being trained as Dental Champions in partnership with The Quay Dental Practice. Once trained, they will deliver brushing workshops and dental hygiene sessions in schools and as part of community hub activities.

A dental resource pack to support the programme has been funded by a donation from Kingsbridge Rotary Club. The resources will be used to demonstrate brushing techniques, promote oral hygiene and provide clear advice for children and families.

The programme builds on the trust’s wider Community Hub approach, which positions schools as local centres of support. Education South West opened its first community hub at Kingsbridge Primary School in March 2025 in the building that previously housed the Sure-Start Children’s Centre.

Matthew Shanks, chief executive officer of Education South West, said: “Good oral health is fundamental to children’s wellbeing, confidence and readiness to learn, yet too many families face real barriers when trying to access dental care.

“Through our community hubs and Dental Champions programme, we are taking practical steps to support children and families, working alongside local partners to make a meaningful difference where it is needed most.”

A spokesperson from The Quay Dental Practice said: “Prevention is one of the most powerful tools we have in improving children’s oral health, particularly in areas where access to dental services is stretched.

“We are proud to be working with Education South West to support families through schools and community hubs, helping children develop healthy habits that will stay with them for life.”

Barnstaple launches bid to become UK Town of Culture

Devon Today
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Barnstaple launches bid to become UK Town of Culture

A bid to secure a major national cultural title is gathering momentum as community leaders, artists and organisations rally behind plans to showcase a town’s heritage, creativity and civic pride.

Barnstaple Town Council has confirmed it is supporting a campaign for the town to be named UK Town of Culture 2028, working with local groups, creatives and organisations to develop a formal submission.

The competition, launched by the UK Government, is the first national scheme of its kind and is open to towns of all sizes. It aims to recognise places that can tell their own story, bring communities together and deliver an ambitious cultural vision.

Shortlisted towns will each receive £60,000 to help develop full bids. The overall winner will be awarded the UK Town of Culture 2028 title and a £3 million prize, while runners-up will receive £250,000 to deliver elements of their proposals.

Barnstaple Town Council said it would work alongside the local bid group and partners across the community to produce a submission celebrating the town’s creative strengths.

Members of Barnstaple’s creative community said: “Culture belongs to everyone, and each of us has a role in shaping what it becomes”.

The Town of Culture bid group added: “Barnstaple’s bid to be named the UK Town of Culture has already united people with a renewed sense of energy, enthusiasm and optimism – celebrating the strengths we share today and inspiring a collective vision for our cultural future.

“The local creative community has shown amazing support for this initiative and are keen to be involved in the process to achieve Town of Culture status for Barnstaple. We look forward to connecting with all communities as we #BigUpBarny”.

Mayor of Barnstaple, Cllr Janet Coates, said: “We are proud to be working with our community to deliver a bid for UK Town of Culture 2028.

“This is a fantastic opportunity to showcase Barnstaple’s rich heritage, creativity and community spirit.

“This bid is about bringing people together and celebrating everything our town has to offer, from our history and cultural events to the talent and passion within our community.

“We are excited to play our part in shaping this vision and creating a legacy for Barnstaple.”

Further information about the town’s bid and ways to get involved is available at www.bigupbarny.co.uk.

More details about the national competition can be found at www.gov.uk/government/news/first-ever-uk-town-of-culture-competition-to-restore-pride-in-communities.

Exeter pupils help rescue animals during shelter visit

Devon Today
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Exeter pupils help rescue animals during shelter visit

Pupils swapped the classroom for a day of animal care after meeting kittens, playful ferrets and other rescue animals during a visit to a local shelter.

Year six pupils from Exwick Heights Primary School spent time at RSPCA Little Valley Animal Shelter while working towards their Torbay & Devon Civic Award, gaining hands-on experience of how animals are cared for and rehomed.

As part of their active citizenship work in the community, the pupils suggested visiting a charity. During their trip, they learned about caring for animals in need, asked questions about the shelter’s work and helped make toys for dogs staying at the centre.

Pupils from Exwick Heights Primary School meet kittens during their visit to RSPCA Little Valley Animal Shelter.
Credit: Ted Wragg Trust

The visit also gave pupils the opportunity to socialise very young kittens and meet several ferrets at the shelter.

Gemma Wills, headteacher at Exwick Heights Primary School, said: “It was a real joy to see our pupils so engaged throughout the day.

“They loved socialising the kittens and met the funniest ferrets with the loveliest personalities.

“It was a great way for them to learn about caring for animals and have fun while putting our values of kindness, curiosity and determination into practice.”

Pupils from Exwick Heights Primary School making toys for dogs during their visit to RSPCA Little Valley Animal Shelter.
Credit: Ted Wragg Trust

Moira Marder, chief executive of the Ted Wragg Trust, said: “Sometimes the most valuable lessons happen outside the classroom.

“Trips like this show children how they can make a positive difference in their community while enjoying themselves and building friendships.”

RSPCA Little Valley Animal Shelter has been caring for, rehabilitating and rehoming animals in Devon for more than 30 years. The charity relies largely on community support to continue its work helping animals in need.

Exeter runner honours hospice legacy in London Marathon

Children's Hospice South West
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Exeter runner honours hospice legacy in London Marathon

40,000 runners take on the TCS London Marathon each year. The bucket-list moment is an extraordinary 26.2-mile journey through the heart of the capital, past iconic landmarks like Tower Bridge, Big Ben and Buckingham Palace.

This year Lizzy Farwell from Exeter will be representing Children’s Hospice South West (CHSW) at the globally renowned event, which is far more than a physical challenge, but a personal tribute to her family: “I am incredibly honoured to be taking part in this year’s London Marathon. My connection to Children’s Hospice South West began long before I could ever imagine running 26.2 miles. From the age of five, I was involved as the very first well sibling of CHSW, witnessing my inspirational parents, Eddie and Jill Farwell, create the children’s hospice movement in the South West. What they built was born from love, courage, and our own family’s experience.”

Lizzy’s brother and sister, Katie and Tom, were born with a life-limiting illness, MPS, and as a family they received support from the only children’s hospice in the UK at the time; Helen House in Oxford.

Lizzy shares that some of her happiest childhood memories were made in a hospice: “As a family, we knew first-hand how vital a hospice could be, not just as a place of care, but as a place of comfort, togetherness and dignity. Some of my most treasured childhood memories were made in a hospice alongside my older siblings: playing in the garden, dipping into the Jacuzzi, laughing over board games with my parents or simply being together around the dinner table.”

“Those times were filled with joy and love, even though they sat alongside some of the saddest and most difficult moments our family faced. That contrast is something I carry with me, how light and laughter can still exist during the darkest chapters of life.”

Lizzy Farwell training for London Marathon

Lizzy’s parents were inspired to create a children’s hospice in the South West as they knew first-hand how it could positively impact so many families. From this idea Children’s Hospice South West was born and over time it’s 3 children’s hospices opened for families in the region to benefit from.

Lizzy says that what her family built together continues to guide her: “I will always be inspired by what my parents created and be immensely proud of how they used our family’s story to build a place where families across the South West could come together, feel supported, and never feel alone. I saw the extraordinary love and care my brother and sister received from the hospice teams, people who are truly one of a kind.”

Over the years Lizzy has taken on various fundraising activities supporting CHSW, including the charity’s 3-day Incredible Hike on the South West Coast Path but the scale of the London Marathon makes this her biggest challenge yet. Holding memories of her parents, brother and sister close through every mile of her training, Lizzy’s motivation has never been stronger:

“As I train for this marathon, my family has been with me every step of the way. They may not be beside me in body anymore, but they are absolutely with me in spirit. And although I am the last Farwell standing, I run with them in my heart, hoping, more than anything, that I will do them proud on race day.”

Running the London Marathon on Sunday 26 April will not only be a personal achievement for Lizzy taking on her first marathon but also a celebration of the Farwell family’s legacy and the incredible impact they have had on children’s hospice care across the South West.

If you would like to support Lizzy, please visit JustGiving and search for ‘Lizzy Farwell’ or click https://www.justgiving.com/page/lizzy-farwell-11?utm_medium=FR&utm_source=CL

New conservation plans proposed for Totnes and Dartmouth

Lewis Clarke
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New conservation plans proposed for Totnes and Dartmouth

Fresh plans to safeguard and enhance the historic character of Totnes and Dartmouth are set to go out to public consultation, as South Hams District Council moves to update its conservation area appraisals for the two towns.

A report to the Executive on Wednesday, March 5, recommends that members approve the commencement of a six-week consultation on draft updated Conservation Area Appraisal and Management Plans for both areas. The review forms part of a wider programme to reassess all conservation areas across the South Hams.

Authorities are required “from time to time” to assess and designate areas of “special architectural or historic interest the character or appearance of which it is desirable to preserve or enhance”.

The council describes it as a “statutory responsibility to review their conservation areas from time to time and seek via consultation, public views to ensure the ongoing preservation and enhancement of the conservation area.”

The consultation period will mark “the start of formal community engagement whereby the public are invited to review the new document and provide comments”.

It will last six weeks, with responses taken into account and incorporated where relevant to ensure the documents remain “an up to date and effective planning tool for the area it serves.”

Both towns have already been closely involved in shaping the draft documents. Recognising that Totnes and Dartmouth are two of the main towns in South Hams, the council says “a more throrough consultation process was undertaken. This included virtual discussions, pre-draft meetings with town councils, and engagement with local amenity groups and historians.

In Totnes, after an initial meeting with the town council, “a small group came forward, comprising parish councillors and interested persons from local groups including the museum for subsequent meetings and email correspondence.” The group suggested possible boundary extensions and contributed links, contacts and detailed feedback. The draft review was subsequently updated and discussed again with the town council.

In Dartmouth, the town council opted to engage separately from other historic groups. Discussions were generally held in person, where councillors outlined their ambitions for the reappraisal and proposed boundary changes. The report records appreciation for the “time and support offered by the Town Councils, amenity groups, local historians and residents.”

As part of the review, the existing boundaries of both conservation areas have been reassessed. In Totnes, four proposed boundary extensions put forward by the town council are included in the draft . In Dartmouth, three extensions suggested by the Dartmouth and Kingswear Society have been taken forward, although two further suggestions were not progressed “to avoid the inclusion of areas that are covered by other more relevant protections and which could be legally challenged.”

The updated appraisals will continue to carry weight in planning decisions. The report notes that the revised documents will “remain a material consideration in the determination of planning applications in both Conservation Areas” and will help ensure that “the preservation and enhancement of the Conservation Areas is be maintained into the future.”

Climate considerations are also referenced. The updated appraisals “refer to the declaration of the Climate Emergency and associated Planning Statement recognising that mitigating climate change and conserving historic buildings are compatible goals and that historic buildings can be a key part of the solution for lower carbon emissions through sensitive adaptation and retrofitting.”

The report outlines the risks of not proceeding. Without an update, the existing documents would remain in force but be “outdated”, limiting their relevance in planning decisions. There is also said to be “a risk of scrutiny if the conservation area appraisals are not updated, undermining their role as a material planning consideration.”

If approved by the Executive, the consultation will run for six weeks. Following that period, feedback will be considered and any relevant changes made before the finalised Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Plans are brought back to the Executive for adoption. Any additional properties included through boundary extensions will be registered accordingly, and updated digital mapping will be published on the council’s systems.

The proposed outcome, the report concludes, is for the revised documents to be adopted “to ensure the relevant document meets the requirements of the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990 and remains a material planning consideration, to ensure continued preservation and where possible, enhancement of the Conservation Areas for both our enjoyment and that of generations to come.”

Nursery praised for safeguarding and outdoor learning

Lewis Clarke
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Nursery praised for safeguarding and outdoor learning

“Children arrive at the nursery excited to see their friends,” inspectors found, as Skylark Nursery School was judged to be meeting the expected standard in all areas, with safeguarding arrangements confirmed as effective.

The nursery, based at Meadow Park Barn, Lower Mead Farm, Alston Cross, Ashburton, Newton Abbot, caters for children aged two to four. It has 32 places and is run by Nature Nurseries Ltd. Registered in November 2023, it operates Monday to Friday from 8.30am to 5pm.

Inspectors reported that “the safeguarding standards are met. This means that leaders and/or those responsible for governance and oversight fulfil their specific responsibilities and have established an open culture in which safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility and concerns are actively identified, acted upon and managed. As a result, children are made safer and feel safe.”

In the classroom, staff were praised for making learning engaging and purposeful. “Staff make the most of teachable moments to support children to develop a firm foundation in their mathematical skills.

Children count on their fingers and then encounter larger numbers when they chat about the ages of members of their family. Leaders emphasise the importance of staff interacting with children and modelling imaginative play, such as in the home corner. This supports children’s language skills well. Leaders provide a cosy place for children to talk about stories with their friends, which helps them to develop positive attitudes towards their learning.”

Assessment was found to be used effectively. Inspectors noted that “staff use assessment well to help them plan for and prepare children for the next stage of their learning. They share information with other settings that children attend. Leaders carefully monitor the progress of children who face barriers to their learning. They refer to other professionals to ensure that children have the help they need.”

Children’s behaviour and attitudes were also highlighted positively. “Leaders prioritise developing a sense of community. They talk to children about being kind and help them learn to play together. In the garden, children develop confidence as they learn how to balance and step across tree stumps.

“Children enjoy working together to roll up a large rug, ready for group time. They help each other carry and lay out blocks to sit on, and staff praise children for being considerate and helping each other.”

Inspectors said staff were proactive in monitoring attendance and vigilant when children were absent, ensuring communication with families to check on welfare. They also found that leaders regularly reviewed arrangements to ensure children’s safety and wellbeing, including when they were sleeping.

Outdoor learning was a notable feature. “Leaders emphasise the importance of being outdoors and noticing the changes in nature. Children enthusiastically go to the garden where they make choices about where to play with their friends. Children learn to share and take turns with the equipment. Younger children gain confidence and develop physically by riding on balance bicycles. Older children enjoy playing games together, such as hide-and-seek.”

However, inspectors identified areas for improvement. They reported: “However, on occasion, children’s learning is not sufficiently well supported during routine times of the day, such as when moving from one activity to the next. When children finish their story time, they all rush together to get ready for lunch. This means that some children have to wait and queue to wash their hands and miss important learning time.”

Inclusion was generally strong, with staff working closely with families and other professionals. But the report noted that “occasionally, children’s home cultures and learning in their own language are not promoted and celebrated as well as possible.”

Leaders were described as having “an accurate view of their strengths and areas for development” and were said to be committed to adapting provision as the community changes, including ensuring additional funding is used effectively to support children who need extra help.

Plymouth pupils quiz MP on politics and future careers

Devon Today
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Plymouth pupils quiz MP on politics and future careers

Students were given the chance to put their questions directly to their local MP during a school visit aimed at raising aspirations and exploring future career paths.

Fred Thomas, MP for Plymouth Moor View, visited Tor Bridge High to meet pupils taking part in the school’s “Your Future Story” programme, an initiative designed to support high-achieving students from Year seven through to their first year of university.

During the visit, Fred met with year seven students involved in the long-term programme, which offers guidance and opportunities to help young people reach their potential. The scheme provides tailored support for both students and their families as they plan their future education and career pathways.

He also joined a question-and-answer session with the school parliament and school ambassadors, where students raised topics ranging from foreign policy to local issues such as roadworks.

Pupils also shared their views on potential restrictions on social media access for under-16s, an issue currently under consideration by the UK government.

The visit gave students the opportunity to discuss their ambitions, explore routes into higher education and gain insight into public service and the role of local representatives.

Tracy Stephenson, headteacher at Tor Bridge High, said: “We are very grateful to Mr Thomas for taking the time to visit and speak with our students.

“Experiences like this give them a real sense of what’s possible, and help them understand how their hard work and aspirations can translate into future opportunities.

“It was a joy to see students asking such thoughtful questions about their education and the world around them.”

Fred Thomas said: “It was brilliant to meet with a handful of students who have been selected to take part in the Your Future Story programme.

“I also thoroughly enjoyed getting a bit of a grilling from the School Parliament and School Ambassadors during a Q&A.

“There were some really insightful and thoughtful questions.”

£4.2m plan to complete Exeter to Cranbrook cycle route

Devon County Council
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£4.2m plan to complete Exeter to Cranbrook cycle route

A new report from Devon County Council sets out proposals to complete a new off‑road walking, wheeling and cycling route between Exeter and Cranbrook.

The report, to go before our Cabinet next week, asks councillors to consider approving the construction of the Mosshayne to Cranbrook section of the Exeter to Cranbrook cycle route.

This section would complete a missing link between Exeter and Cranbrook, providing a safer and more attractive route away from busy roads.

If approved, the route would run through green space between the Mosshayne and Tithebarn development area and Cranbrook.

It would link into existing and planned paths, including routes through Clyst Meadows Country Park, Exeter’s strategic cycle network, Cranbrook town centre and Cranbrook railway station.

The proposed route would be suitable for people of all ages and abilities, including families, less confident cyclists and people using mobility aids.

It is intended to support everyday journeys such as commuting, education and leisure, as well as improving access to green space.

If given the green light, the scheme would deliver around one kilometre of new shared‑use path, including a new bridge over the River Clyst.

Some land would need to be acquired to deliver the route, with negotiations ongoing and compulsory purchase powers available if required.

The estimated cost of the scheme is £4.2 million, funded through a combination of external grants and developer contributions.

Construction would be phased and could be completed by March 2028.

Councillor Jacqi Hodgson, the council’s Cabinet Member for Climate Change and Biodiversity, said: “This report sets out proposals for completing an important walking and cycling link between Exeter and Cranbrook.

“Any decision will be for Cabinet to make, but the aim is to improve safety, connectivity and travel choices for local people, while supporting healthier and more sustainable journeys.

“Every new stretch of Active Travel Route makes a vital contribution to addressing climate change by reducing our dependence on fossil fuels for travel.”

The council’s Cabinet will consider the report at its meeting on Wednesday 11 March 2026.

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