Letter to the Editor: Devon towns ignored in Government funding scheme
As Prime Minister Sunak announces £1 billion to support towns not a single town in Central Devon receives support
MW
by Mark Wooding
6 Oct 2023
Teignbridge Liberal Democrats improve local environment in Moretonhampstead
MW
by Mark Wooding
20 Oct 2023
Liberal Democrat Cllr. John Farrand-Rogers and Cllr. John Nutley, Teignbridge Council Executive Member for Open Spaces, Leisure, Sport, Resorts and Tourism, recently met with Moretonhampstead Parish Clerk Sam Parkin.
"After a decision at a recent Parish Council meeting there was a community consultation to understand what the local residents priorities were," said John Farrand-Rogers. "Key issues raised were the maintenance of open spaces, the lack of affordable homes, traffic safety in the town, keeping Moretonhampstead tidy and supporting local businesses. I invited Councillor John Nutley to join me to meet Parish Clerk Sam Perkin to hear things first hand."
"Liberal Demcorats are committed to ensuring local decision are made at local levels. Parish Councils have a key role to play in this, so I was delighted to meet Sam," commented John Nutley. "A tour of local facilities highlighted some issues, including some failings in grounds maintenance, and the poor state of the local toilet block. I'll be taking these back to the Council to see how these can be improved."
"Although the grass had been cut they did miss some weeds. It's a small thing but a tidy environment encourages care for the town," obseved John Farrand-Rogers. "The appearance of the toilet block is a disgrace, so I'm delighted Councillor Nutley is seeing what action can be taken."
The possibility of installing Electric Vehicle charging points in the Court Street car park was also discussed, and Cllr. Nutley agreed to explore this possibility with Teignbridge Council staff.
Two other requests from residents were more challenging. A reduction in residents' parking permits charges is unlikely whilst central government keeps local councils short of funding. The same applies to bringing back the annual skip service.
"The message is quite clear," said John Farrand-Rogers. "Teignbridge District Council wants to help the people of Moretonhampstead, but its hands are tied because the present Conservative Government does not believe in decentralising power and resources. The people of Moretonhampstead deserve better. I say to the Conservatives take off the shackles and let us get on with the job."
Related Articles