Difficulties finding affordable housing, the increasing cost of living, the new transport hub in Okehampton and supporting business to adapt to the climate crisis - just some of the challenges and opportunities facing West Devon.
Now everyone who lives and works in the Borough is being asked to have their say on what matters to them.
Our Hub Committee agreed, on 21 November, to consult with residents on the ambitions and aims in our draft 2024-2028 Corporate Strategy to make sure we are focusing on the right things to meet the needs of local communities.
Acting as an overarching framework, the strategy outlines some of the main areas that we want to focus on. This includes supporting the economy and delivering frontline services that make a difference to the Borough’s communities, such as street cleansing, planning and enforcement.
The ‘Let’s Talk’ consultation will run from Monday 27 November to Friday 12 January and there are a number of ways to get involved:
- An online survey
- A series of ‘quick polls’ on social media
- Conversations with key partners, including town and parish councils
- Face to face attendance at several locations across the Borough to gain views from residents on our priorities
- A paper survey will be made available on request for anyone not able to provide their thoughts online
The publication of the draft strategy will help create a talking point for further conversations with residents.
Leader, Cllr Mandy Ewings, said: “West Devon is a wonderful place, but like anywhere, it has its own challenges. Housing for local people, the environment and biodiversity are all key priorities, but they’re complicated issues and finding solutions will take time.
“Everything we do at the Council has our communities and the best interests of our residents at the heart of it. We feel our strategy reflects the things that matter most to residents, but we want this to be a strategy everyone gets behind. Talk to us, let us know your thoughts on West Devon and what issues affect you.
“From 27 November, you will get your chance either in person, or online to give your views. You can also contact us for a paper copy if that makes it easier for you.”
The consultation will be open for four weeks. We’ll then look at each and every comment and see if we need to adjust our proposals.
From Monday 27 November, you can have your say when the consultation period opens, or emailing your thoughts to: strategy@swdevon.gov.uk
To read the full report, visit the Hub Committee Page. You can find the minutes and agenda here.
You can also watch the meeting on the Council’s YouTube channel.