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Dinan Way scheme progressing but slowed by wet weather

Work on the Dinan Way extension in Exmouth is being hampered by the ongoing heavy rain, but progress is continuing to be made.

The new Hulham Road roundabout, developed as part of the scheme, was surfaced last week. Road markings and high friction surfacing are still to be added.

From Monday 16 February to Tuesday 24 February, there will be overnight closures on the A376 between the Summer Lane junction and Pitts Farm junction to carry out highway drainage improvements.

These closures will also be used for survey work to establish the exact location of services and structural foundations which could impact the surfacing work to tie-in with the construction of the A376 roundabout. This includes gas main diversion works on the A376, which is expected to be completed over the next couple of months. Devon County Council and contractor Octavius Infrastructure Limited are currently discussing dates for this work.

Other extensive work to divert existing utility services has already been completed, including a water main diversion on Hulham Road, as well as BT and Virgin Media diversions on both the A376 and Hulham Road.

Unfortunately, the scheme is running behind schedule and is now expected to be completed in June.

Due to the volume of rainfall, Octavius Infrastructure Limited has had to seek approval from the Environment Agency for temporary drainage measures which will help to manage surface water run-off at the site while work continues.

The majority of the new kerbing and new highways drainage system on the new section of Dinan Way have been installed.

A signalised pedestrian crossing has been introduced across the A376 Exeter Road, near the Co-op store, and junction improvements to Pound Lane/Hulham Road have all been completed.

The upgrade of the existing informal crossing at Gorse Lane into a Toucan crossing with an island is scheduled to be completed next month, along with the informal crossing on Marley Road which is being converted into a Puffin crossing.

Work to introduce a bus layby at Kings Nursery on Hulham Road is due to get underway next month and is expected to be completed in April.

Summer Lane, which has been closed to vehicular through-traffic (apart from residents’ access) as part of the Dinan Way scheme, will be resurfaced in the coming weeks.

The scheme is being funded by UK Government, Devon County Council, East Devon District Council and Exmouth Town Council.

Rapist who used threats and violence jailed for 20 years

A rapist has been jailed for 20 years after using terrifying violence to carry out his attacks.

Peter Gilbert, 54, of Manor Street, Plymouth, appeared at Truro Crown Court for sentence on Wednesday 18 February after being found guilty at trial of three counts of rape.

Gilbert was also convicted by a jury of one non-sexual offence, as well as pleading guilty to breach of a court order and disclosing an intimate video with intent to cause distress.

Gilbert must sign the Sex Offenders’ Register for life and a restraining order was put in place to protect the victim.

The offences took place in Newquay, Plymouth and Truro.

The court heard how in June 2022, Gilbert attended Charles Cross Police Station in relation to an unrelated matter.

While in the station he became flustered and started pacing the room before saying to officers that he had carried out a sexual offence.

The victim was spoken to while Gilbert was in custody and stated that Gilbert had raped her on several occasions – including after a night out in Newquay.

The victim described freezing during the attacks and Gilbert making a variety of threats against her.

A further attack took place at the victim’s home, in which Gilbert said he was twice the size of the victim and she had no choice but to do what he wanted.

Gilbert made additional threats of violence, including with weapons and showed footage of an oral rape to others. He carefully filmed the attack to make sure the victim was visible and not him.

Gilbert made no comment in interview.

During the sentencing hearing, Judge Simon Carr commented how Gilbert preyed upon his victim and such was the violence he demonstrated towards her, he even stubbed out cigarettes on her arms causing scarring.

Judge Carr added that Gilbert filmed the rapes and used the footage as a weapon.

Detective Sergeant Megan Cornish, said: “Peter Gilbert is an extremely dangerous rapist and sexual predator who used violence and threats in order to rape his victim.

“Gilbert showed no regard for her wellbeing in his evil pursuit for sexual gratification. 

“I would like to praise the immense courage of the victim, who has remained engaged from when she was first spoken to, right through to the court process.

“It is her bravery that has enabled Gilbert to be brought to justice for his crimes.

“While I do not underestimate the psychological damage caused by Gilbert’s actions, I hope she is now able to feel some form of closure.

“We encourage anybody who has been the victim of rape or sexual abuse to report it to us via 101 or our website. Or by 999 if in immediate danger.

“All reports made will be investigated and you will be believed.”

Support available

If you or someone you know has been a victim of rape or sexual assault, we encourage you not to suffer in silence and report it to the police by calling 101, or 999 in an emergency. You can also report information and crimes on our website.

Alternatively, you can report information anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

There are lots of organisations and support agencies available across Devon and Cornwall that can help provide support.

For more information on rape and serious sexual assault and the support services available, please visit our support pages by clicking here.

Advice and support are also offered by our partner agencies:
• National Rape Crisis Helpline 0808 802 9999
• Devon and Cornwall Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARC) 0300 3034626

The Stop It Now charity provides an anonymous helpline for anyone with concerns about child sexual abuse and can help if you are worried about your own thoughts, feelings or behaviour, or have any concerns about another adult or young person www.stopitnow.org.uk

Victim care

If you have been affected by crime, please visit Home – Victim Care Devon & Cornwall (victimcare-dc.org) to access support services and information on your rights and how to navigate the criminal justice system. You can also call Victim Support on 08 08 16 89 111 or Devon and Cornwall Police’s Victim Care Unit on 01392 475900.

Sea shanties and sculptures unite pupils for outdoor day

They swapped classrooms for campfires and exercise books for sea shanties as pupils from two primary schools joined forces for a day of music, art and outdoor adventure.

Children from Charleton CofE Academy and West Alvington Church of England Academy, both part of the Learning Academy Partnership, came together for a shared learning experience centred on creativity and friendship.

The day began with a visit from Mizzen Link, a local sea shanty singing group. The performers entertained pupils while teaching them about the history of shanty songs and the importance of keeping maritime traditions alive.

Pupils also sang shanties they had been practising during their singing assemblies.

Younger children later took part in Forest School sessions, where they created Andy Goldsworthy-inspired sculptures linked to their learning about the renowned British artist. The sessions encouraged pupils to explore natural materials and work collaboratively outdoors.

The day also included cooking ‘bonfire pizza’ over an open fire, giving children the opportunity to develop practical outdoor skills while working together.

Despite wet and windy conditions, pupils from both schools spent the day strengthening existing friendships and forming new ones. The event reflected the schools’ shared focus on friendship and encouraging children to support and include one another.

Hannah Ruston, headteacher at Charleton CofE Academy, said: “Bringing pupils together from the two schools gave them a great opportunity to learn from one another while having fun.

“The day combined creativity and outdoor learning, and it was wonderful to see the children enjoying their time together.”

Tracey Cleverly, chief executive of Learning Academy Partnership, said: “Events like this are a great way for pupils across our schools to learn from one another, be creative and try new things beyond the classroom.

“Most importantly, they also help children build friendships and enjoy learning together.”

Major 1,000 job scheme unveiled for land near Exeter

Plans for a major new employment site on land north of Sowton Village have been formally submitted, with developers promising more than 1,000 jobs and significant investment just off the A30 near junction 29 of the M5.

The outline application, lodged on behalf of Waddeton Park Ltd, seeks permission for up to 28,300 square metres of commercial floorspace across a 19.3-hectare site at Venn Farm. All matters are reserved except for access.

According to the Planning Statement prepared by Greenslade Taylor Hunt, the proposal is for “the proposed commercial development of land north of Sowton” . The development would comprise a mix of B2 (general industrial), B8 (storage and distribution) and E(g) (office and ancillary) uses, with the potential for supporting facilities such as “indoor sports and recreation, café or crèche”.

The site lies immediately south of the A30, close to junction 29 of the M5, and around 200 metres south of Exeter Science Park. It currently consists of four agricultural fields totalling approximately 19.30 hectares. The land is wholly within Flood Zone 1, identified as the lowest risk of coastal and fluvial flooding .

Developers propose a new vehicular access from Sowton Lane at the eastern end of the site. The Design and Access Statement confirms a “singular point of vehicular access from Sowton Lane, with associated road widening to accommodate traffic movements” . A new priority junction would be constructed, alongside off-carriageway cycle infrastructure and a segregated footway and cycleway along Sowton Lane . Improvements are also proposed at the Honiton Road junction, including a signalised arrangement and enhanced pedestrian and cycle crossings.

Satellite image of the area alongside the road.

In total, around 10.09 hectares of the site would form the built development area, with the remaining 9.21 hectares allocated to formal and informal open space, drainage and infrastructure . Existing boundary hedgerows would be retained “as far as possible” and attenuation features are proposed in the southern part of the site . Provision is also made for biodiversity net gain and ecological buffers, including a tree belt to create a buffer to Sowton village.

The public right of way along the southern edge of the site would remain in place and “will not need to be diverted or obstructed as a result of the proposed development.”

An Environmental Impact Assessment screening opinion issued on 17 September 2024 confirmed the scheme constitutes EIA development and must be accompanied by an Environmental Statement . The council issued a subsequent scoping opinion in October 2024 setting out the required chapters .

The Economic Impact Assessment states that the development will deliver 28,300 sq m of commercial floorspace . During construction, the project is expected to create “an estimated 300 person-years of employment” . Once operational, it is projected to support “an estimated 1,040 jobs on site” , with the potential to generate around £29 million of Gross Value Added to the East Devon economy annually.

The Framework Travel Plan states that the overarching vision is “to provide new, high quality employment land at the site, which will form a key part of the wider development strategy for the area” . It also highlights that the scheme would help realise elements of the Clyst Valley Trail and wider cycling infrastructure earlier than might otherwise be delivered.

The site was previously identified in the Regulation 18 East Devon Local Plan draft as a potential mixed-use business park location, although a subsequent Site Selection Report concluded it should not be allocated for employment development.

In planning policy terms, the application argues that significant weight should be placed on the need to support economic growth and productivity, in line with the National Planning Policy Framework . The submitted Planning Statement concludes that the proposals “constitute a sustainable form of development.”

East Devon District Council will now consider the application, alongside the accompanying Environmental Statement and technical reports, before determining whether to grant outline permission. Public consultation and statutory consultation responses will form part of that process before a final decision is made.

Schoolchildren captivated by Lion, Witch and Wardrobe

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A wardrobe door opened and a world of wonder stepped out for pupils from St Andrew’s CofE Academy as they watched a stage adaptation of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.

Children from the school, based in Buckland Monachorum and part of the Learning Academy Partnership, visited the Theatre Royal Plymouth to see C.S. Lewis’s classic fantasy brought to life.

The trip, supported by staff and volunteers, was made possible with transport funded by the school’s PTFA. All four classes attended the performance and were described as captivated from start to finish.

The visit forms part of the school’s wider approach to English, which aims to help children develop confidence as communicators, explore high-quality texts and practise their writing skills. School leaders said experiences outside the classroom help make learning more tangible for pupils.

In addition to its curriculum, St Andrew’s offers a range of creative clubs including library, art, music, drama, Shakespeare, tech, outdoor games and cooking. The activities are designed to give children opportunities to explore new interests and develop their talents in different settings.

Debbie Nunn, headteacher at St Andrew’s CofE Academy, said: “Watching our pupils step into the world of Narnia was truly magical.

“They were captivated and came away buzzing.

“Experiences like this bring our English curriculum to life and give children memories they will treasure.

“A huge thank you to Mrs Bucknell for organising the trip, to all staff and volunteers who supported the day, and to our PTFA for funding the transport.”

Tracey Cleverly, chief executive of Learning Academy Partnership, said: “Nothing beats the theatre for bringing a story to life.

“Children can explore new ideas, develop confidence, and discover passions they might never have known they had.

“It’s fantastic to see our pupils inspired, creative, and enjoying learning together.”

Pupils set to meet professionals at Drake careers fair

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Pupils are being given a glimpse of their future as their school throws open its doors to the world of work.

Drake Primary Academy, part of the Reach South Academy Trust, is inviting local businesses and professionals to take part in its next careers fair. The event is designed to inspire children and broaden their understanding of the opportunities available to them beyond the classroom.

The careers fair will take place on Friday, March 20.

Businesses and professionals who attend will have the opportunity to speak with pupils about their roles and experiences, helping them to see how their learning at school could shape future career paths.

The invitation follows a recent careers afternoon at the school, where pupils met visitors from professions including healthcare, mental health services and the creative industries.

The academy is now seeking to attract an even wider range of employers and professionals from across Plymouth and the surrounding area. It is particularly keen to hear from those working in trades, public services, science, technology, hospitality, the creative industries and local businesses of all sizes.

Drake Primary Academy says it values strong links with its local community and believes early exposure to different careers can help children build confidence, raise aspirations and recognise the variety of pathways open to them.

Jacqueline Stephens, executive headteacher at Drake Primary Academy, said: “Events like this play a vital role in helping children understand the world beyond the classroom.

“Meeting people from different professions helps pupils connect what they are learning in school with future aspirations and possibilities, and begin to see the many pathways open to them.

“We would love to hear from local businesses and professionals who are willing to share their experiences.”

Anyone interested in taking part in the careers fair or finding out more can contact the school office on 01752 567649 or by email at reception@drakeacademy.org.

Wartime airfield building could become nine new homes

Plans have been lodged to turn a former Second World War airfield building on the edge of Winkleigh into nine new homes after more than two years standing empty.

An application has been submitted by Mr Bruce Palmer seeking prior notification approval for the change of use of Unit 1, Bellinster Park, Seckington Industrial Estate, Winkleigh, from commercial, business and service use to nine dwellinghouses.

The planning statement, prepared by Acorus Rural Property Services, explains that the buildings, known as “The Depot”, were “formerly used as Airfield offices, the officer’s mess and Officer’s rooms associated with Winkleigh Airfield” . More recently they were occupied by Elemental Digest for research and development linked to nutrient-rich fertiliser from food waste, before the company went into liquidation.

According to the statement, the site has been “continuously marketed… since September 2023 to November 2025” with “no formal viable offers” . The document adds that the buildings “have now been vacant in excess of two years” and that there has been “no proceedable interest through the two year marketing programme” .

On that basis, the applicant is seeking to convert the property into nine single-storey homes, comprising “8 No. three bed single storey units and 1 No. 2 bed single storey dwelling” . The total gross internal area of the existing buildings is 1,482.32sq m, with the residential element amounting to 900.2sq m.

The site lies around 513 metres north of Winkleigh’s development boundary and is identified as employment land under Policy EC1 of the Winkleigh Neighbourhood Development Plan (2018–2031) . It sits south of the A3124, behind detached homes known as Elklands and Bellinster, with other Class E and B2 units to the south.

The statement notes that the buildings date from the 1930s and were part of a strategically important wartime airfield. They are not listed and are “not in the vicinity of any heritage assets or scheduled ancient monuments” . The site is also within a UNESCO Biosphere Transition area.

In planning terms, the application argues that the proposal complies with Class MA permitted development criteria. It states the property “has been empty since September 2023” and that it had been in Class E use for several years prior, including occupation by Elemental Digest between 2018 and 2023 .

Access to the new homes would use the existing vehicular access from the A3124, with “no changes proposed”. No enlargement of the buildings is proposed, although a canopy on the southern elevation and a roof covering between the buildings would be removed.

Internally, some walls would be removed and new partitions installed to create the nine dwellings, with the report stating that all units would meet or exceed nationally prescribed space standards . Each habitable room would have a window providing “sufficient light into the dwelling” .

The statement also addresses potential impacts. It confirms the site lies entirely within Flood Zone 1 and “is not at risk of flooding from rivers or seas”. On contamination, it says the buildings have only been used for offices, social and dining facilities linked to the RAF airfield and more recently for research and development, and that “none of these uses has involved the use of toxic or hazardous materials and substances”.

Regarding noise, the report acknowledges the proximity of the A3124 and neighbouring commercial units, but states the change from light industrial to residential “will see a decrease in noise pollution emanating from the site” . It adds that sound insulation and double glazing would be used, and that an earth bank planted with native hedgerow is intended to help screen and absorb sound from adjoining commercial buildings.

In its conclusion, the planning statement says the conversion “constitutes permitted development for which the Council’s prior approval should not be required” . It argues that bringing the buildings back into use would enhance “the vitality of Winkleigh and ensures the visual and environmental condition of the site into the future”.

Devon pupils take learning to new heights on London trip

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They swapped school desks for the seat of a coach and turned lessons on democracy into a front-row experience of the real thing during a whistle-stop visit to the capital.

Thirty pupils from Dunsford CofE Academy and All Saints Marsh CofE Academy, both part of the Learning Academy Partnership, travelled 358 miles by coach to explore London’s landmarks and institutions.

Accompanied by five members of staff, the children clocked up 16,000 steps as they took in a ride on the London Eye, a walking tour of the city and a visit to the Houses of Parliament to see democracy in action. The group also enjoyed a meal at The Giraffe.

The trip was fully funded through the Learning Academy Partnership’s 70 Before 7 initiative and the Parliament Education Fund.

It was designed to give pupils first-hand experience of the city’s culture, history and government, helping to bring classroom learning to life and broaden their understanding of the wider world.

Both schools place a focus on extending learning beyond the classroom, aiming to provide experiences that encourage pupils to explore new environments, develop curiosity and see how their learning connects to real-life opportunities.

Mr Liam O’Sullivan, headteacher at Dunsford Community Academy and All Saints Marsh CofE Academy, said: “What an unforgettable day. Our pupils were brilliant ambassadors for their schools from start to finish.

“It was fantastic to see them make the most of every moment, and a huge thank you to everyone who made this extraordinary trip possible.”

Tracey Cleverly, chief executive officer of Learning Academy Partnership, said: “Trips like this give young people a chance to explore beyond the classroom, develop confidence, and experience first-hand the subjects and topics they learn about at school.

“It’s a joy to see pupils from Dunsford and All Saints learning, laughing, and building friendships together.”

Balanced Devon budget for roads, children’s futures, libraries and communities

Roads and children’s services will receive a major cash injection in the first budget of Devon County Council’s new administration.

The County Council’s Cabinet revealed on Tuesday 17 February that highways will receive an additional £15 million of capital investment in 2026–27. This will fund targeted preventative maintenance, resurfacing and patching.

On top of that, £4 million of additional revenue funding will be spent on highway drainage improvements, gully clearance, vegetation management and other preventative work. A further £10 million per year will continue this approach across the remainder of a five-year Medium-Term Financial Plan.

Under the proposed budget, the council also intends to invest £268 million in services for children and young people – an increase of £19.1 million. This covers support for children in care, early help for families, education services, and improved fees and allowances to foster carers to strengthen support for existing carers and expand efforts to recruit new carers.

Funding includes £69 million for SEND support within the Inclusion and Learning budget, with an additional £600,000 investment in SEND to speed up 20-week Education Health and Care Plans (EHCP).

Schools and SEND services also receive a separate ring fenced grant of £843 million.

The Council also reaffirmed its commitment that no libraries are closing. It will restore the book fund to £500,000 by adding £225,000 to it.

There will also be £425,000 to support general library delivery during transition, and plans were announced to establish a £1 million reserve for Libraries and Rural Hubs to support genuine transformation and community-led improvement.

Councillor James Buczkowski, Cabinet Member for Finance, said: “We said we would deliver change. This budget delivers that change responsibly, sustainably and with a long-term view for Devon.

“We are strengthening our commitment to children, young people and the most vulnerable.

“On highways, Devon’s roads have taken a battering. After years of underfunding and “managed decline” we’ve now seen severe storms, sustained rainfall and repeated freeze-thaw cycles that have caused significant structural damage. This investment will improve how we manage schemes, how we communicate with communities and how we hold delivery to account. It is not just about spending more. It is about doing it properly.

“In a tough national funding environment, we have set a balanced and fiscally responsible budget, protected and prioritised children, young people and families, invested in the most vulnerable, strengthened infrastructure and delivery, and remained honest about the financial reality we face.”

The council also plans to spend £395.9 million on Integrated Adult Social Care. This will help support older people and adults with disabilities to live safely and independently.

For Public Health and Communities, the council intends to invest £14.4 million on services that help people stay healthy, such as health checks, support to stop smoking, and drug and alcohol treatment. This is supported by a separate national Public Health Grant of £37.7 million.

To support economic development and skills, the council has allocated £2.8 million. This will help with business support, apprenticeships and adult learning programmes, alongside more than £8.4 million in national skills funding.

In order to manage those budgets, the County Council’s council tax precept will rise by 4.99 per cent. This represents an additional £89.91 for 2026/27 for Band D properties.

These decisions, says the council, have been guided by evidence and strengthened by the council’s Scrutiny committees as part of the budget setting process.

The proposed budget will now go to Full Council on Tuesday 24 February for formal approval.

Work starts on £2m revamp of Exeter’s beloved King George V fields

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Work will begin this week on a multi-million-pound project to improve and enhance one of the city’s much-loved green spaces for the use of current and future generations.

Exeter City Community Trust (ECCT), the partner charity of Exeter City Football Club, is due to begin work at the 40-acre King George V Playing Fields on Topsham Road.

And the charity has secured almost £2million from the Premier League, The FA and Government’s Football Foundation towards the ambitious project.

Phase one of the work includes two new Football Foundation PlayZones, a 3G pitch and refurbishment to the existing pavilion to include accessible changing rooms and community-use rooms. The project start follows a public consultation last year, which informed the design and direction of the plans.

Will Barrett and Danny Harris from ECCT credit Exeter City Community Trust

The site is a priority within Exeter City Council’s Playing Pitch Strategy, which reviews current and future demand for formal sports facilities. Working in partnership, ECCT and the council will deliver the improvements, with the fields to be leased to ECCT on a 50-year agreement. Work is commencing following approval of the lease by the council.

The fields are one of hundreds established across the UK following the death of King George V in 1936 to ‘promote and assist in the establishment of playing fields for the use and enjoyment of the people’. They are legally protected by the Fields in Trust charity, whose mission is to preserve and safeguard the land for public benefit.

Jamie Vittles, Chief Executive of Exeter City Community Trust, said: “We are delighted to bring this project to life and grateful to the many organisations, including Exeter City Council, Fields in Trust and the Football Foundation, who have worked closely with us to make it a reality.

“The incredible contribution from the Football Foundation brings a serious external investment into Exeter, helping us provide the best facilities for our whole community.”

Jamie added: “We are taking our role as custodians of this valuable green space very seriously. This is about creating an accessible and improved space, which meets the requirements of 21st century lifestyles, whilst preserving a wonderful natural resource and creating a community asset which will be here for many generations to come.”

The Football Foundation helps fund grassroots sports facilities where the need is greatest and impact will be strongest. It will be contributing £1,997,354, towards the new FIFA-quality 3G pitch, refurbishment of the Pavilion and the two PlayZones. The project has been through a full planning process with Exeter City Council, with approval granted in August last year.

As part of the scheme, 65 new trees will be planted in partnership with the council. These will form a community orchard, as well as providing screening and enhancement of the area. The planting will offset the felling of two oak trees. Both trees are in the third quarter of their natural life, and one has been severely damaged by squirrels stripping the bark, causing branches to fail from the upper canopy and resulting in a distorted and unstable upper crown. Historically, part of the site was covered with a traditional orchard. Reintroducing fruit trees will enhance biodiversity while providing long-term benefits for the community.


The second phase of the project is due to include the provision of Padel courts, an extension to the existing pavilion to incorporate a community café and social space, woodland trails and walkways, and further improvements to grass pitches.

Cllr Duncan Wood, Lead Councillor for Leisure and Healthy Living, said: “It’s great news that the major improvements for these much-loved playing fields are about to begin.

“The 3G pitch will allow many more games to go ahead which would otherwise have been lost due to bad weather, while much-needed refurbishment of the changing facilities will also be a major boost.

“I also welcome the woodland trails and walkways that will be created during the second phase for those who simply enjoy walking and being in this beautiful green space.

“The local community and everyone who uses King George V will benefit from the improvements that are being planned by ECCT, and this shows what can be done by working collaboratively with our parters in the city.”

Further details are available at www.kgvexeter.com/

Email any questions or enquiries to kgv@ecct.co.uk