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Conservatives launch campaign against Dartmoor pony cull fears

Rebecca Smith
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Conservatives launch campaign against Dartmoor pony cull fears

The Conservatives have today [Tuesday 16 June] launched a campaign against plans for a mass cull of Dartmoor ponies.

Ponies have roamed Dartmoor for thousands of years. But now, Natural England, an unelected and unaccountable New Labour quango, has the ponies in its crosshairs.

The body is demanding a drastic 75 per cent reduction in livestock grazing on the moor. This could mean up to 90 per cent of the semi-wild ponies are killed. Farmers are likely to prioritise keeping cattle and sheep, which are more profitable, over horses as they attempt to stay within the new limits which local farmers oppose.

Keir Starmer might have said he won’t allow the ponies to be shot. But the Prime Minister has a history of saying things and not acting on them, and u-turning when the going gets tough. So the Conservatives are urging Labour to intervene, overrule Natural England and ensure Dartmoor’s ponies are protected, and calling on the public to sign our petition at www.savetheponies.com

Dartmoor Hill ponies have Rare Breed Status, numbering fewer than 1,000. Natural England, which should be protecting these animals, is instead putting their future in grave doubt.

A report commissioned by the last Conservative Government made clear that Natural England should not take actions that would reduce pony numbers. In fact, it stated that ponies are “invaluable for conservation grazing” on the moor, noting that much of the moor is under-grazed and invasive species like Molinia grass are prevalent. Yet the quango has decided it knows best – despite local opposition.

This kind of overreach is one of the many reasons that the Shadow DEFRA team are carrying out a review into the DEFRA quangos, like Natural England, which are outdated and work against the grain of rural life, not with it.

The Conservatives will not stand idly by as our rural communities face such shameful and cruel decisions. That’s why we are launching this petition against the cull.

Dr Neil Hudson MP, Shadow Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Minister, said:

“As a veterinary surgeon, I know that culling perfectly healthy animals is not the way forward in this situation. These precious ponies are part of the natural landscape and ecosystem and they must be preserved.

“Natural England have gone into over-reach and they need to understand that these ponies can co-exist with the farm animals in the area and are vital for our heritage but also for supporting the natural environment.

“For once, this Labour Government needs to do the right thing, hold Natural England to account, and put a halt to any proposed Dartmoor Pony cull.”

Rebecca Smith MP, Member of Parliament for South West Devon, said:

“Natural England are forcing Dartmoor farmers into an untenable situation.

“These bizarre new rules on grazing numbers won’t just impact Dartmoor Ponies but cattle and sheep as well. Dartmoor farmers are deeply concerned about what it means for their future.

“Natural England need to think again about these wrongheaded changes, listen to farmers and stop the cull.”

Community spirit helps transform school field into thriving forest haven

Devon Today
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Community spirit helps transform school field into thriving forest haven

Warberry C of E Academy has transformed an unused outdoor area into a thriving Forest School space after securing funding and support from dozens of volunteers, businesses and community groups.

The new outdoor learning environment at the Torquay school, which is part of the Learning Academy Partnership, has been developed to help pupils connect with nature, build practical skills and support their wellbeing.

What began as an empty space has been turned into a dedicated area for outdoor education through a combination of funding, donations and volunteer support.

The school secured £2,000 to fund key infrastructure improvements, including the installation of a shed and wider site upgrades. Additional funding secured by school leaders also enabled the construction of a shelter, allowing the space to be used throughout the year.

Pupils enjoy the new Forest School area

A special contribution came from headteacher Steve Bone’s daughter, who created a hand-painted design for the shed sign.

South West Water supported the project by delivering free water conservation lessons for pupils and helping to develop water collection systems now used on site.

Pupils are also involved in sustainable gardening projects, including growing vegetables and learning about environmental stewardship.

Local businesses donated materials including woodchips and logs, while more than 30 individuals and over ten businesses contributed time, resources and support to help complete the project.

The school also thanked Claire Farley for her role in writing funding applications and helping to develop a team of parents who contributed to the project.

In addition, staff completed Wild Tribe training and took part in modelled lessons to ensure teachers are confident using the space and embedding outdoor learning across the curriculum from Reception to Year 6.

Steve Bone, headteacher at Warberry C of E Academy, said: “This project truly reflects what can be achieved when a whole community works together with shared purpose and determination.

“We are incredibly grateful to every one of the volunteers and businesses who have contributed to making this vision a reality.

“The Forest School area is already having a positive impact on our pupils’ learning, wellbeing and connection to nature.”

Tracey Cleverley, trust lead at the Learning Academy Partnership, said: “The transformation of this space at Warberry C of E Academy is a fantastic example of community collaboration in action.

“It is inspiring to see how funding, volunteering and creativity have come together to create something so meaningful and sustainable for pupils.

“This is a project that will continue to grow and benefit generations of children.”

Warberry C of E Academy said it looks forward to continuing to develop the Forest School area as a long-term resource for outdoor learning.

Barnstaple library supporter wins £1,000 lottery prize

Libraries Unlimited
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Barnstaple library supporter wins £1,000 lottery prize

Chris Franks from Barnstaple has won £1,000 in the Libraries Unlimited lottery. People in Devon can support the charity that runs the libraries by buying a lottery ticket that costs just £1 a week, with the possibility of winning up to £25,000. There are also other prizes to be won such as shopping vouchers and food subscriptions.  

Chris has been a member of the library since he moved to Devon in 2017 and has been playing the lottery for two years. “It’s actually the second time I’ve won something- the first time was about £45. It’s great because you don’t do it to win, you do it to support the libraries so it feels like a bonus.” 

Chris used the money to take his mum away on a much-needed holiday after losing his brother last year. “When you’ve got something spare you can think about those kinds of treats. I play this lottery because I believe in the importance of libraries. They are central to the community I think. There’s so much you can do at the library like tea and cake and playing board games, and you go in and see the same faces and that’s a nice feeling. The staff are always lovely as well and you feel very welcome.” 

For every ticket purchased, 50% directly supports library services, helping to tackle educational and social inequalities, skills gaps, loneliness, and isolation. Since Joining One Lottery in February 2023, Libraries Unlimited has raised over £16,000.  

Alex Kittow, Chief Executive Officer, Libraries Unlimited, commented: “The lottery is a really good way for us to raise extra funds for libraries. As Chris has shown, people tend to play because they want to support libraries across Devon and Torbay, and it’s a nice extra if they win anything, which people often do! We are very grateful to Chris and everyone who supports us, it all makes a difference to what we can offer and how we support communities.” 

In the last three years supporters have won £7,816. Of that, £850 has been donated back to the charity, increasing the charity’s total funds raised to over £17,000. 

A spokesperson from One Lottery added: “Congratulations to Chris on winning our Super Draw, and thank you to everyone who supports Libraries Unlimited and other good causes across the country through One Lottery. 

Every ticket helps raise vital funds for good causes while giving players the chance to win fantastic prizes. We’re proud to help organisations like Libraries Unlimited generate additional income to support the important work they do in their communities, and we’re always delighted when we can celebrate a big win alongside them.” 

To play the lottery visit Play Our Lottery – Libraries Unlimited 

KFC’s Tiverton opening edges closer as first management jobs advertised

Devon Today
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KFC’s Tiverton opening edges closer as first management jobs advertised

A finger lickin’ clue that Tiverton’s long-awaited KFC could soon be a step closer has emerged after the fast-food giant began advertising for staff at its planned restaurant.

A team leader vacancy has been posted online for KFC Tiverton, marking one of the clearest signs yet that preparations for the new branch are progressing ahead of its anticipated opening.

The role, advertised through KFC’s recruitment platform, seeks a team leader to help oversee day-to-day operations, support staff development and ensure the restaurant runs smoothly.

According to the job description, successful applicants would be expected to lead shifts, help the restaurant achieve targets, coach team members and assist with duties including stock management and shift planning.

The advert states that applicants should be experienced in managing teams, capable of working under pressure and able to motivate colleagues in a fast-paced environment.

KFC says team leaders will receive benefits including free food and drink while on shift, a 25 per cent staff discount and opportunities to develop a leadership career within the company.

The vacancy appears to be one of the first recruitment campaigns specifically linked to the planned Tiverton restaurant and is likely to fuel speculation that work is advancing behind the scenes before the branch opens its doors.

The restaurant chain, which was founded in Kentucky in 1939, now operates in more than 1,000 communities across the UK and Ireland.

The full vacancy details can be viewed at: https://harri.com/Kfc-Tiverton/job/2734434-kfc—tiverton

KFC said in the advert: “Whoever you are and wherever you’re from, KFC is a place where you can bring the real you to work.”

The company added that all applicants would have an equal opportunity to work for the business regardless of age, background, ethnicity, gender, ability, religion or sexual orientation.

Torquay Harbour could add five new jet ski pods under proposal

Devon Today
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Torquay Harbour could add five new jet ski pods under proposal

A stretch of Torquay Harbour currently unsuitable for traditional boat moorings could be transformed into a new home for personal watercraft under plans due to be considered by harbour committee members.

A report due before the Harbour Committee on Monday, June 15, proposes the installation of approximately five Maxi 2 Jet Ski Pods near the Town Dock access bridge. The area has been identified as unsuitable for conventional berthing because of manoeuvring constraints but suitable for dedicated jet ski storage facilities.

The proposal has been brought forward amid growing demand from personal watercraft users. According to the report, there are currently eight customers on the waiting list for jet ski storage within Torquay Harbour. Demand has been described as exceptionally high and the waiting list has now been closed.

Harbour officials say the Maxi Jet Ski Pods feature integrated wheels on the upper surface, which are designed to reduce hull wear and minimise the risk of damage during launching and recovery. The enhanced specification would support a higher annual tariff than existing standard jet ski pod facilities.

Committee members are being asked to approve an estimated capital expenditure of £13,132.81 for the installation of the pods, along with a proposed annual charge of £1,550 per pod.

A financial appraisal included with the report estimates annual income of £7,750 if all five pods are occupied. The document states the investment would have a payback period of approximately 20 months, or 1.69 years.

The proposed annual charge would be higher than the current standard jet ski pod tariff of £1,225, but lower than the £1,798.35 charged for an MDL jet ski berth, according to the market analysis contained within the report.

If approved, the new facilities would be installed in an area adjacent to the Town Dock access bridge and are intended to help ease pressure on demand for personal watercraft storage within the harbour.

More than £277,000 remains in Pride in Place funding pot as board prepares next decisions

Devon Today
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More than £277,000 remains in Pride in Place funding pot as board prepares next decisions

More than a quarter of a million pounds remains available through Torquay’s Pride in Place programme, with board members preparing to decide which projects could receive funding in the next round.

A report prepared for the Torquay Place Leadership Board states that Torbay Communities was commissioned in April 2026 to continue supporting the development of Pride in Place initiatives over the next four years.

The report says 16 of 30 proposals on the programme’s shortlist were assessed ahead of the board’s April meeting. Of those projects, six received funding, ten were carried forward, two were referred to the council’s quality assurance panel for further work on their business plans, nine remain on hold and three were merged with other proposals.

A total of £314,427 was committed at the April meeting, leaving £277,573 still available for allocation during 2026/27.

According to the report, all projects approved in April have received grant funding agreements and taken part in mobilisation meetings. The projects were assessed against the Pride in Place aims of creating thriving places, stronger communities and taking back control.

Funding allocated so far has been divided between several priorities. The report shows £85,055 was allocated to improving the town centre, £85,055 to crime and safety, £92,800 to improving neighbourhoods and £51,517 to work and skills.

The report notes that improving the town centre and tackling crime and safety were identified as the highest priorities by the public. Earlier workshops highlighted four areas requiring investment: long-term regeneration, improving the appearance of the town centre, providing alternatives for the street-attached community and bringing unused town centre spaces back into use to increase footfall.

Of the town centre-related funding allocated to date, £179,187 has gone towards providing alternatives for the street-attached community, while £19,240 has been allocated to improving the appearance of the town centre. No funding has yet been allocated to long-term regeneration or the re-use of town centre spaces.

The report states that 2026/27 will be an important year for re-engaging residents with the Pride in Place initiative and demonstrating that investment is being made in the areas identified by the community. It also highlights the need for visible progress that can be delivered in the short to medium term.

Board members have been asked to score two new business cases, consider whether to fund those projects or any of the ten proposals carried forward from April, and identify schemes that may require revised business plans before September.

Looking ahead, the board is expected to review whether funding decisions align with the regeneration vision submitted to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, how projects can be better connected, and how additional investment can be secured.

Torbay Communities also plans a media campaign promoting Pride in Place, updates for residents and groups involved in the August 2025 engagement process, the opening of a Pride in Place high street hub on Union Street and a review of the programme’s application process.

Condemned Scout hut may be flattened as housing plan moves forward

Devon Today
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Condemned Scout hut may be flattened as housing plan moves forward

A former Scout hut could be knocked down and replaced with two homes under new plans submitted for a Devon village.

The proposal for Scout Hall, Radway Hill, Bishopsteignton, seeks permission to demolish the existing disused building and build two semi-detached dwellings with associated parking.

Applicant Mr Mark Mawby is behind the scheme, with the design and access statement prepared by Zo Architects.

The site sits on the eastern side of Radway Hill and was formerly occupied by a Scout hut. Access is currently via a timber gate, with an electricity substation in the north-west corner.

Planning documents say the existing blockwork building has had “poorly constructed, ad hoc extensions” and “detracts from the overall quality of the site”.

The statement says the building has been condemned and that the community facility is proposed to be re-provided elsewhere.

Previous planning history for the site includes outline approval for two dwellings in 2020 and reserved matters approval for a single dwelling in 2023.

The proposed homes would have rendered elevations, concrete tiled roofs and white uPVC windows, with ridge heights not exceeding nearby homes to the north.

Access would be taken from Radway Hill using existing arrangements, with on-site parking and turning space proposed.

An ecology survey by Orbis Ecology found negligible impact on bats and negligible ecology on the site, according to the application documents.

The site is described as being in flood zone one, with the existing building covering 127sqm and the proposed building covering 89sqm.

The design statement concludes the scheme would make “effective use” of previously developed land and says it would not harm highway safety, neighbouring amenity or the character of the area.

New North Devon plan could reshape where thousands of homes are built

Devon Today
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New North Devon plan could reshape where thousands of homes are built

A major review of towns and villages across northern Devon could play a key role in deciding where future housing, jobs and infrastructure are directed as councils prepare a new local plan.

North Devon Council and Torridge District Council have produced a Settlement Assessment Report to help develop a new spatial strategy for the area. The assessment is designed to provide an up-to-date understanding of the role and function of urban and rural settlements, their relationships with one another and their relative sustainability.

The report will be considered by the Joint Planning Policy Committee on Friday, June 19. Members are being asked to endorse the assessment as the basis for developing a new settlement hierarchy for North Devon and Torridge.

According to the report, national planning policy requires local plans to support sustainable patterns of development that meet local needs, help mitigate climate change, improve the natural and built environment and ensure infrastructure and services can support growth.

The assessment examines the provision and accessibility of services, employment opportunities and other factors affecting the sustainability of settlements. The findings will be used to create a settlement hierarchy that will help guide decisions on the scale and type of development that may be appropriate in different locations.

The report also states that the work could help identify communities where services, facilities and infrastructure are lacking and where improvements could strengthen long-term sustainability and viability.

A summary of the assessment says it reviews the existing pattern of development across northern Devon, considers the characteristics of sustainable settlements, identifies common assessment criteria and explains how the methodology was developed. It also outlines how the results will inform the creation of a future settlement hierarchy.

The report concludes that the hierarchy will become a key part of the new local plan’s spatial strategy. However, it notes that decisions on the amount of development proposed in individual locations will also depend on further technical evidence, including assessments of site constraints and development opportunities.

Further work on the hierarchy will involve elected members, local plan thematic working groups and public consultation with communities across North Devon and Torridge.

Exeter business ventures reviewed as one firm closes and others evolve

Devon Today
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A council-backed company has been wound up, a business centre faces an uncertain future and a new chief executive has arrived at Exeter Science Park as Exeter City Council published its latest review of organisations linked to the authority.

A report due before councillors on Tuesday, June 16 provides a six-month update on companies, alternative delivery models and charities connected to or controlled by Exeter City Council. The authority said the review was part of a commitment made in 2025 to keep members informed about the activities and financial performance of the organisations.

The report states there are no significant issues to highlight across the organisations in which the council has an interest. It also confirms a review of Exeter Business Centre has been completed, with a further report recommending a way forward expected to be presented to councillors in July.

Among the organisations covered is Strata Service Solutions, the council’s jointly owned information technology company with East Devon District Council and Teignbridge District Council.

According to the report, Strata continues work on a transformation programme, including local government reorganisation preparation projects, cloud infrastructure migration and improvements to customer-facing digital services. The company underspent its budget by £936,000 during 2025-26 and delivered £1.25 million of capital improvements. Draft accounts have been delayed because of year-end pension reporting issues.

The report also notes that a new chief executive joined Exeter Science Park Limited on Friday, May 1 and will work alongside the current chief executive until the end of June. The council said it was not aware of any issues affecting the organisation.

Exeter City Group Limited and Exeter City Living Limited now operate primarily as property-holding companies managing six residential flats at the Guildhall Shopping Centre. Increased tenant turnover affected rental income during the year, although this was partly offset by reduced operating costs. Draft accounts for Exeter City Living show a loss of £101 and net assets of £117,156.

South West Audit Partnership, which provides internal audit services to public sector organisations, continued to expand and welcomed another partner in April. Exeter City Council said it remained only a small shareholder and was not involved in the company’s day-to-day management.

The report confirms DextCo Limited, which had been established to help develop district heat network proposals in Exeter, was dissolved on Tuesday, May 5 after plans did not proceed. Directors had recommended that shareholders voluntarily wind up the company.

Exeter Business Centre, based on Marsh Barton Industrial Estate, reported a profit of £12,838 and net assets of £1,187 in draft accounts for 2025-26. A review of the company has now been completed, with recommendations expected to be considered by the council next month.

The report also covers Monkerton Heat Company Limited, which remains dormant, and Exeter Canal and Quay Trust Limited, a charity managing and improving properties around the Quay. The council said it was not aware of any significant issues affecting either organisation.

Councillors are being asked to note the contents of the report.

Padel power play as Slazenger plans new indoor courts for Exeter

Devon Today
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Padel power play as Slazenger plans new indoor courts for Exeter

A major new padel club could soon serve up a sporting boost as Slazenger prepares to bring its fast-growing court game to a former retail park unit.

Slazenger Padel Clubs says its new Exeter facility is “coming soon” to Unit One at Haven Banks Retail Park.

The site was formerly occupied by The Range and, more recently, Rediscover Church.

Details released for the planned venue say it will include ten premium indoor courts, elite coaching and training programmes, a pro shop and equipment hire.

The club is also advertising exclusive founder membership benefits.

A licensing application has been lodged with Exeter City Council for the sale of alcohol, recorded music, films and indoor sporting events from 6am to midnight every day.

The application also seeks permission for late-night refreshment from 11pm to midnight daily.

Slazenger Padel Clubs says it is continuing the legacy of the Slazenger brand, which it describes as “a symbol of sporting excellence since 1881”.

Its website says: “With over a century of experience, Slazenger has been at the forefront of delivering the highest quality equipment and facilities to athletes worldwide.

“Now, we’re bringing that same commitment to padel, offering world-class courts, expert coaching, and premium facilities.”

The club also says it will offer coaching for beginners and experienced players, including intro to padel sessions and training for all ages and skill levels.

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