Council agrees package of financial support

Posted on 26th January 202426th January 2024 by admin

Tel: 01803 861368

Email: communications@swdevon.gov.uk

Council agrees package of financial support

Issued: 25 January 2024

An aid package full of financial proposals aimed to help South Hams’ residents and businesses has been approved by South Hams District Council’s Executive.

Following the meeting today, Thursday, 25 January, proposals will now be progressed to the Full Council in February for consideration.

The Council continues to help vulnerable residents who need support, through their Council Tax Reduction Scheme (CTRS). Following a public consultation held in November last year, which asked residents what their thoughts were on changes to the current scheme. The Executive listened carefully to public opinion and voted in response to make several changes to further support beginning from 1 April 2024. These are in addition to those already in place, which continue for the coming year.

The new measures included:

The removal of the Minimum Income Floor (MIF) for self-employed workers

This is valuable to self-employed workers in the District, because normally the Minimum Income Floor suggests that these workers are earning a certain level of profit, linked to the national minimum wage, even if they didn’t earn that amount. By removing this, self-employed workers will receive more financial support.

To ignore all the ‘Limited Capability for Work’ element of Universal Credit

By ignoring 100% of the limited capability for work element of Universal Credit, we will be able to support more residents who are only able to work a certain amount of hours due to health conditions and disabilities.

Retail, hospitality, and leisure businesses are also set to benefit from rate relief after the Executive agreed a policy to help traders through the cost-of-living crisis. The national funding was announced by the Chancellor in the Autumn Budget. The new scheme for 2024/2025 will provide eligible, occupied retail hospitality and leisure properties with 75% relief up to £110,000 per business. It is expected that 395 businesses will benefit from the rate relief.

The empty homes premiums are there to encourage empty properties to be brought back into use. It is hoped this will help to ease the pressure on the housing crisis within the district and provide more homes for residents. Money raised from the income gained by South Hams District Council will be used to address local district challenges and aims, linked to corporate priorities.

The Executive voted to approve the following:

Premiums ranging from 100% - 300 % depending on the length of time empty homes have been unoccupied from 1 April 2024
To double Council Tax on Second Homes from 1 April 2025

Cllr Julian Brazil, Leader of South Hams District Council, said: “We are working to address the economic problems our district is faced with due to the cost of living crisis and we are making headway. As always with difficult situations, there is more ground to cover but we’re positive about the changes we’re making.

“We’ve decided on a funding approach, which we feel is best suited to help the residents and businesses and deliver the Council’s key priorities for our communities. Our ambition is to channel as much energy, support and funding into projects that have the community at the heart where we work together to meet those aims, then we’ll be successful.”

To find out more information on each of the reports discussed during Executive, go to: www.southhams.gov.uk/executive

The meeting can be viewed in full on South Hams District Council’s YouTube channel www.youtube.com/@SouthHamsCouncil

Temporary Changes to Dartmouth’s Ferry Services

Posted on 22nd January 202422nd January 2024 by admin

Tel: 01803 861368

Email: communications@swdevon.gov.uk

Temporary Changes to Dartmouth’s Ferry Services

22 January 2024

Those in Dartmouth looking to travel across the River Dart by car are being asked to plan ahead as there will only be a single car ferry service in operation from Monday 29 January.

Due to unexpected, but essential maintenance work, the Dartmouth Lower Ferry will need to continue to run a single ferry service until Monday 12 February 2024.

Unfortunately, during this time, the Dartmouth Higher Ferry also enters its own maintenance period and they will not be running their usual service.

This means there will be one car ferry crossing the River Dart during this period.

South Hams District Council’s Executive Member for Community Services; Operations and Leisure, Cllr Victor Abbott, said: “We know this is going to be a busy time to travel across the Dart and we urge you to plan ahead and give yourself plenty of time for your journey.

“Every year we do essential maintenance on both of our vessels, Tom Casey and Tom Avis as they are over 30 years old. It is very important that we continue to maintain them for the safety of our passengers. That is always, and will always be our top priority, as well as providing an efficient service to all who use the Lower Ferry.

“On our recent inspection, it was found that some essential work needed to happen. Although we are aware this will cause some disruption for our customers, we are relieved to have found the issue early before it became a major problem for the future.

“Be assured that we will do all we can to make journeys as smooth as possible, including extra staff working on our ferry and help to control traffic during peak times.

“This will be a very busy time for our friendly team, please be kind and respectful to them while using our service.”

For more information on the ferry, please visit:

www.southhams.gov.uk/dartmouth-lower-ferry

New community composting scheme in Marldon

Posted on 12th January 202412th January 2024 by admin

Tel: 01803 861368

Email: communications@swdevon.gov.uk

New community composting scheme in Marldon

12 January 2024

A new community composting scheme in Marldon has launched, thanks to funding from South Hams District Council.

The Council is supporting the Marldon Community Composting Group to the tune of £9,000, to help with set up costs, that will cover equipment costs and other set up expenses.

Where needed the Council can also provide a resource from its grounds maintenance team to assist with the ‘turning and shredding’ of the green waste.

The group has gone through the application process, providing all the necessary documentation to secure the money, with support from Sustainable South Hams (SusSH), one of the Council’s close partners in the realm of fighting climate change locally.

Cllr Jacqi Hodgson, Executive Member for Community Composting, said: “We are delighted to be able to support the Marldon Community Composting Group in their endeavour to launch this new scheme.

“Schemes like this are a win-win. They offer communities the chance to recycle green waste in a way that is easy to access and take locally produced compost home for their gardens. It also brings people together, promotes the sharing of vital skills and helps reduce our carbon footprint.”

Jane Nichols, CEO of Sustainable South Hams, said: “Projects like this tie in directly to the key aim of SusSH – to support and inspire sustainability projects in the South Hams and wider Devon.

“It is another sign of the close working relationship between the Council and SusSH, a relationship we hope will continue to flourish.”

The ties between the Council and Sustainable South Hams are strong, following the Council’s financial support for the group, and the formation of the Climate Change and Biodiversity Advisory Group, which is using specialist and expert knowledge to support the Council and wider community’s climate ambitions.

The Council is encouraging SusSH to support other composting projects in our communities, so that groups can share knowledge and potentially resources where needed.

District Council makes it easier for residents to understand its finances

Posted on 8th January 20248th January 2024 by admin

Tel: 01803 861368

Email: communications@swdevon.gov.uk

District Council makes it easier for residents to understand its finances

8 January 2024

South Hams District Council has created a short summary of its 2022/23 accounts, so you can see how the authority spent public funds.

This is a new idea which has been brought in this year by the Council’s Audit and Governance Committee.

You can view the summary online here, which offers a straightforward breakdown of how money was spent to deliver Council services.

The Council is in a good financial position. There was a small surplus of £57,000 (0.5%) generated against a net budget of £10.464m for the 2022/23 financial year.

The Council faced additional costs and a shortfall of income of £1.92m during 2022/23. Many of these costs were a result of the current economic climate with high inflation and the cost-of-living crisis.

There was also the exceptional one-off cost of £1.5m for bringing the Council’s waste and recycling service back in-house in October 2022. The £1.5m was funded from reserves. There has been a huge improvement in performance for the waste and recycling service since it was brought in-house. The Council has also now completed the roll out of its full collection service, including collections for food waste across the South Hams, meaning all residents are now recycling the same materials.

The extra costs and shortfall in planning income of £0.35m were offset by the Council generating additional investment income. This income of £1.02m took advantage of high interest rates and came from the careful planning and management of the Council’s cash funds. The Council also received more income from its car parks and the Dartmouth Lower Ferry, along with income from its business units.

Despite all these additional costs and pressures caused by the wider economic situation, the authority has finished the year in a strong financial position.

The Council’s full accounts show all of the precise details. The accounts are currently unaudited and the Council’s external auditors, Grant Thornton, are now in the process of completing the audit of the accounts.

Cllr Lee Bonham, chair of the Council’s Audit and Governance Committee, said: “As a Council we want to be transparent, so having complex information on our finances be summarised in this way makes how we spend your money easy to understand and clear.

“This is the first time that the Council has has provided this information in this way. We want to make it easier for people to understand the way we operate and how we are spending public funds.

“We’re working hard to overcome many of the problems facing the district, including the housing crisis, the cost-of-living crisis, and the climate change and biodiversity emergency.

“To have worked on such a broad series of challenges, to have brought the waste service back in-house and found ourselves in the strong financial position we’re in is a great credit to our Councillors and our staff.”

Cllr Alison Nix, the committee’s vice-chair, added: “So much was achieved in 2022/23. The Council has worked incredibly hard to serve the people of the South Hams, so to end the fiscal year in a good financial position means the future is looking positive for the district.

“It’s good that we can present our accounts in a more easily read format, and shows how the Council responds to the feedback we get from you, our residents.”

To read the summary on the Council's Accounts page, click here.

Welcome To Our January Newsletter!

Posted on 4th January 20244th January 2024 by admin

Action on climate change in Devon and dates for the diary

Devon Climate Emergency | January 2024

Welcome To Our January Newsletter!

There are many actions already taking place across Devon that are successfully reducing greenhouse gas emissions and implementing the Devon Carbon Plan. Here are our picks for the month!

You can see more positive actions and stay updated throughout the month by visiting the Taking Action page on our website.

Plymouth City Council Wins Prestigious Award At COP28

A green energy scheme developed by Plymouth City Council has received awards at the world’s largest climate conference.

The network will use waste heat from cooling in buildings like Plymouth Pavilions and Moxy Hotel for heating nearby buildings, reducing emissions. Where necessary this is topped up with other renewable sources of heat.

Read More

Fossil Fuels Down to 35% of UK Energy Supply in 2023

Electricity pylons and clouds of steam from power generation

Several newspapers started the year with announcements of a continued shift in Britain's energy mix. City AM and the Times reported that in 2023 fossil fuels were the source for only 35% of Britain's energy, compared to 43% in 2022.

On top of British renewables, energy imports from France and Norway contributed to the decline in fossil fuels, due to their generation from nuclear and hydroelectric.

Credit: Image by Pixabay on Pexels

Read More

Missing Link Of Tarka Trail Receives Go-Ahead

Bike against a gate with grass and fields behind, with a view of a wooded valley

Devon County Councillors have approved proposals to construct the latest section of the Tarka Trail between Barnstaple and Ilfracombe.

By providing a safe, off-road route more people will be encouraged to walk and cycle to work, place of education or in their leisure time which can help save money, while also improving health and the local environment.

Read More

Orphaned Beavers Rehomed Near Plymouth

Eurasian Beaver swimming with its head above water in a river

Two orphaned beavers are settling into their new home at Poole Farm, Plymouth, after being spared from culling in Scotland. Their introduction is part of Plymouth City Council’s Green Minds project which aims to connect people with urban wild spaces.

The beavers will be monitored to gain an understanding of their behaviour and the resulting landscape changes. It is hoped that their presence will help reduce downstream flooding and increase biodiversity.

Photo by Denitsa Kireva

Find Out More

Plans Approved For New Coastal Defence Scheme for Sidmouth

Visualisation of how rock groynes will look in Sidmouth - an aerial photo with protrusions of rock from the coast

The Environment Agency has approved plans for a new coastal defence scheme for Sidmouth. The scheme will cost £20m and is backed by £16m of government funding, with £2.25m allocated by East Devon District Council (EDDC) and additional contributions from Devon County Council.

The plans include new offshore breakwaters, raising the level of East Beach and new rock groynes.

EDDC anticipate that the project would protect approximately 200 residential and commercial properties from sea flooding and coastal erosion

Find Out More

Work Underway On Tiverton’s Net-Zero Housing

Modular houses wrapped in protective white covering being lifted into place by a crane.

Tiverton’s new net-zero carbon housing development is coming into being at Shapland Place.

The innovative, modular houses, built in partnership with Zed Pods Ltd, have been delivered and lifted into position. Work took place in September of last year on the foundations and services to allow for delivery of the homes in December.

The site, which is owned by Mid Devon Council, used to be garages and car parking and will accommodate eight self-contained residential units of between one-bedroom and three-bedroom. The homes will have triple glazing and solar panel.

Read More

Progress Report On Carbon Plan Actions Updated

Progress reports for all themes covered by the Devon Carbon Plan are now available on the website. Going forward progress reports will be published twice a year per theme.

On the recommendation of the Devon Climate Task Force, from now on all actions will be reported against, not just priority actions, as was initially the case.

Following the publication of the finalised Climate Adaptation Strategy, a progress report on the short term actions in the Adaptation Strategy Action Plan will also be published on the website early this year.

The progress report can be viewed online or downloaded from the website as an Excel file.

Read More

Business Spotlight - Riverford Organics

A Riverford Organics veg box held by a man, whose hands you can see, standing in a field

Local businesses are making great progress on becoming net-zero - Riverford have joined over 120 other businesses, councils, schools and more who have already signed the Devon Climate Declaration to show the growing support for taking action.

Zac Goodall, Head of Sustainability at Riverford, told us:

"Riverford is aiming to achieve net-zero operational carbon emissions by 2030. Our major decarbonisation activities target transport, electricity use, and refrigeration.

We're progressing by electrifying our diesel van fleet, targeting 50% electrification over the next year, with 100% by 2026. We have been installing solar panels on rooftops around the business, with 420 kW installed in 2023, and plans for an additional 280 kW in 2024. Combined with our existing solar array, this powers the equivalent of 350 UK homes yearly.

Addressing refrigeration's impact, we're replacing standard equipment with CO2-charged alternatives, reducing emissions by minimizing refrigerant gas leakage. On Riverford farms we have been establishing new hedgerows, planting woodlands and agroforestry, and trialling methods to reduce tillage of the soil, to enable greater carbon sequestration.

In 2022 we kicked off a carbon sequestration initiative with Ripple Effect, our charity partner, which involved a community tree planting initiative, planting 45,000 fruit trees across smallholder farms in Ethiopia, which will sequester 27,000 tCO2e over 15 years."

Image credit: Riverford Organics

Endorse the Devon Climate Declaration

Find out about upcoming events across Devon below.

Energy Advice Drop-In Sessions

January 10th & 17th, 2024, 9:30 - 12:00

Old School Community Centre Sustainability Hub Totnes Rd, South Brent.

Worried about the rising cost of energy? Get free impartial advice from South Dartmoor Community Energy.

Find Out More

FREE Training for East Devon Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise Organisations

January 11th, 10:00 - 11:30

Are you uncertain about what legal structure is best for your organisation? At this upcoming workshop, Devon Communities Together’s Hannah Reynolds will take you through the different structures, such as Charity and Community Interest Company; choosing the right one could have a significant impact on the success of your organisation!

Find Out More and Register

Net-Zero Exchange: Kickstarting Your Collaboration

31st January, 14:00 – 16:00, Sustainability Hub, University of Plymouth

The Net-Zero Solutions Fund enables businesses to team up with researchers to take on a carbon challenge or harness their industry’s low-carbon possibilities. It’s an opportunity for enterprises to take evidence-based, targeted climate action with the help of researchers applying their specialist knowledge and maximising the real-world impact of their work.

Meet potential project partners at this networking event, hear about previous similar collaborations and ask the team any questions you have before applying.

Find Out More

Totnes Bike Hub Winter Evening Workshop Classes

Adjusting Brakes Part 1 and 2 - Winter Evening Workshop Class, 11th and 25th January - FREE

Would you like to learn how to repair your bike? Then check out this winter programme of learn-to-fix events! These are funded by Cycling UK and are aimed at beginners, and people returning to cycling.

Booking for the evening workshops is essential.

Email Totnesbikehub@gmail.com, phone or pop into the shop to book your place!

Find Out More

Bike Kitchen - Self Supported Use of Workshop Space and Tools

Totnes Bike Hub 'Bike Kitchen' - Self Supported Use of Workshop Space & Tools, 13th January, 10:00 am - 12:00 pm - FREE

Get your bike ready for 2024 and make use of the Hub's tools and space. Knowledge of bike maintenance required as this session is self supported.

No booking is required for the Bike Kitchen.

Find Out More

white sheep with one horn looking at camera

Agri-Innovation Programme Expressions of Interest reopening: 8th to 31st January, Business Information Point

This project is helping farm businesses maximise their potential and productivity through regenerative and innovative methods and practices. Running in West Devon Borough Council and South Hams District Council areas only, the project works with farmers who are open to and enthusiastic about embracing new ideas, methods, equipment, and processes. They are supported to identify their farm’s unique potential, viable opportunities and undertake actions to develop and deliver an Innovation Plan.

Places are limited in this project: any farmers interested in taking part must complete an Expressions of Interest form.

Photo by Trinity Kubassek, Pexels

Find Out More

Change Makers: Thermal Imaging Cameras

10th January, 2024, 10:30- 12:00

The Mansion, 36 Fore St, Totnes, TQ9 5RP

Are you considering how to engage your group and community with issues around home heat loss? Dan Parnell, who has been leading on Sustainable South Brent's thermal imaging camera training and loan scheme, will be supporting our discussion on the topic of using these fantastic tools for further understanding.

Space is limited for this free event, so please do book at the Eventbrite link.

Book now

Knowledge Transfer Partnerships Business Information Sessions

19th January, 12:00 - 13:00, Online

The University of Plymouth’s Innovation Funding Team together with Enterprise Solutions are hosting a series of free, business-information sessions. These online events will show how different businesses can benefit from a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) project and explore other services for business that are available from the University. Registration open to UK businesses only.

Find Out More And Register

A Greener Way for our Bay for all of Torbay to be happy and healthy, we need to plan for a changing world. Trees, cyclist and someone walking.

A Greener Way for Our Bay – Have your say - Survey Now Live

If you live in Torbay then Torbay Council want to hear your views to help them plan for a changing world.

The new consultation aims to engage with local people on the Torbay Climate Partnership’s new plans for reducing the Bay’s carbon footprint and preparing for a changing climate.

Find Out More

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Trading Standards Consumer news

Posted on 19th December 202319th December 2023 by admin

Toy safety advice; e-bike and e-scooter safety; avoid loan sharks; and much more

Heart of the South West Trading Standards Consumer news

Watch: how to ensure toys are safe this Christmas

To help you ensure that the toys and electrical items you buy this Christmas are safe, watch our two short videos in which a Trading Standards Officer shares top tips and advice on what to look for and what to avoid.

E-bike and e-scooter warning

We're advising consumers and businesses to ensure that e-scooters and Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycles (e-bikes) are safe and compliant with the correct safety regulations before they are purchased, sold or hired out.

And businesses are reminded that it is their responsibility to inform customers that e-scooters are not currently legal for use on roads or other public highways unless a specific scheme is in place.

This warning follows a market surveillance operation on electronic vehicle safety by our Service and a recent safety message by the Office for Product Safety and Standards which highlights the steps people should take when owning or thinking of buying an e-bike or scooter.

Protect yourself from loan sharks

The lead up to Christmas can be an expensive time and knowing where to go to get the right help can be tricky. We want you to know the red flags of loan sharks, so you can protect yourself. Loan sharks:

can pose as your friend and draw you in with a loan, no questions asked.
often don’t provide any paperwork or receipts and will add huge amounts of interest on what you owe.
can become aggressive and threaten you and your family if payments are missed or late.
can take valuables or personal documents as security.

If you recognise any of these signs there are people to help. Stop Loan Sharks are here to provide help and support for anyone involved with a loan shark. Contact them on 0300 555 2222.

Avian influenza - latest situation

Visit our avian influenza webpage to learn about the latest situation in the Heart of the South West, disease control measures in place, and how to spot and report the disease in your birds.

‘Crime doesn’t pay’; Rogue builder told to pay back over £200,000

Heart of the South West Trading Standards Service prosecuted a rogue builder earlier this year, and now that builder could be paying out for ‘the rest of his life’.

Read full story: ‘Crime doesn’t pay’; Rogue builder told to pay back over £200,000.

Tradesman who pressured vulnerable customer fined

A tradesman who pressured a vulnerable pensioner into paying £2,000 to have loft insulation removed and then bombarded her with aggressive calls demanding she pay the £5,000 balance, has been prosecuted.

Read full story: Tradesman who pressured vulnerable customer fined.

Rogue trader ordered to repay elderly victim £27,500

A rogue trader has been ordered to pay almost £40,000 after convincing a pensioner to let him carry out roofing work that wasn’t needed.

Read full story: Rogue trader ordered to repay elderly victim £27,500.

Illegal tobacco seized

Illegal tobacco and vapes worth almost £100,000 have been seized from five premises across Plymouth.

Read full story: Illegal tobacco seized.

‘Toolkit’ will help protect students from scams

A recent survey (2022) found that a third of students had a personal experience of being scammed – and across the South West last year young people aged 18-22 lost a total of £73,361,101 to fraudsters.

The Student Scams Toolkit: Empowering Students with Awareness and Knowledge has been produced by Trading Standards South West in conjunction with our service and aims to give young people the tools to protect themselves from fraudsters.

Read full story: ‘Toolkit’ will help protect students from scams.

Trading Standards South West's '12 Days of Christmas Safety'

In the run-up to 25 December, Trading Standards South West are featuring the '12 Days of Christmas Safety' to help everyone have a safe and happy Christmas. Follow them on Facebook and X to get their tips.

Action Fraud's 12 Frauds of Christmas

During the festive period, Action Fraud are highlighting a different fraud type every day to help you keep your money safe and out of the pockets of criminals. Follow them on Facebook, X and Instagram to learn how to stay safe from fraud this Christmas.

Christmas and New Year opening times

Our offices will be closed over Christmas and New Year. Find out how to get consumer advice and about contacting us for business support during this period.

What do you think our priorities should be? Let us know in our short survey.

This newsletter is produced by the Heart of the South West Trading Standards Service. Commissioned by Devon, Plymouth, Somerset and Torbay Councils.

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Office hours
9am-4.30pm (Monday to Thursday).
9am-4pm (Friday).

For consumer advice, call the Citizens Advice consumer helpline on 0808 223 1133.

For immediate, straightforward guidance on a range of consumer problems, read our free online consumer guides.

For business advice, visit our website or contact us.

For Trading Standards Approved Traders visit Buy With Confidence.

Changes to Dartmouth Lower Ferry service

Posted on 18th December 202318th December 2023 by admin

Tel: 01803 861368

Email: communications@swdevon.gov.uk

Changes to Dartmouth Lower Ferry service

18 December 2023

Despite best laid plans to trial a two-float service for the entire festive period, Dartmouth Lower Ferry will now unfortunately have to reduce to one float for the last few days over New Year. This will happen from Thursday 28 December and continue for five weeks.

This is due to the Higher Ferry’s own maintenance period needing to be juggled with the essential maintenance of the Lower Ferry’s Tom Casey float. Both Higher and Lower ferries work together to ensure there is enough capacity to support communities crossing the River Dart at all times.

The Christmas double running as promised does continue at all other times.

Dartmouth Lower Ferry’s two-float service will begin again on Monday 5 February 2024.

The reduction in service also means the Lower Ferry can fully support Maritime Coastguard safety inspections. These essential inspections on each of the tugs and floats make sure they are first and foremost safe and fit for all passengers, but also that the annual passenger certificate continues.

The new single and double ferry timetable will be as follows, so please make a note:

Double ferry running

Monday 11 December – Wednesday 27 December

Single ferry running

Thursday 28 December to Sunday 4 February

Double ferry running

Monday 5 February onwards

South Hams District Council’s Executive Member for Community Services; Operations and Leisure, Cllr Victor Abbott, said: “While we are disappointed to not be able to complete the trial for the New Year part of the festive period, we’re pleased that we can continue to offer double running still over the important Christmas and Boxing Day when family and friends are more likely to gather. Our team will be working as quickly as possible over the New Year to make sure your celebrations are not slowed down by the single running ferry.

"This essential maintenance will mean we can continue to offer a smooth-running service in the new year, as well as support with the demand when the Higher Ferry enters its own maintenance period.”

Local Dartmouth District Ward councillors, Cllrs Jonathan Hawkins, Ben Cooper and Ged Yardy, all agree: “We are very lucky to have such a hard-working team that always make sure that our ferry service runs efficiently and professionally in all weathers, and we thank them for their dedication and support.”

For more information on the ferry, please visit:

www.southhams.gov.uk/dartmouth-lower-ferry

ENDS

Temporary Traffic Notice – ROAD FROM SUNNY PARK TO MARJERY CROSS, Ermington (TTRO2454579)

Posted on 14th December 202314th December 2023 by admin

District Council Discuss Freeport Report

Posted on 14th December 202314th December 2023 by admin

Tel: 01803 861368

Email: communications@swdevon.gov.uk

District Council Discuss Freeport Report

Issued: 14 December 2023

Following a Full Council meeting today, Thursday 14 December, South Hams District Council discussed recommendations from the Task and Finish Group on the Plymouth and South Devon Freeport.

Following a lively and robust discussion for and against the recommendations, which can be viewed in full on South Hams District Council’s YouTube channel, it was agreed to support the 17 recommendations proposed.

South Hams District Council’s Executive Member for Economic Development, Commercial Strategy and Governance, Councillor John Birch, said: “The Task and Finish group have made some sensible suggestions which the Council have endorsed. We can now get on with the business in hand, which is to make the most of the Freeport for the residents and businesses of South Hams.”

The Audit and Governance Committee’s Task and Finish Group report, detailing all of the 17 recommendations, can be found at: www.southhams.gov.uk/fullcouncil Follow the links to the correct meeting and date and the public report pack.

The meeting can be viewed in full on South Hams District Council’s YouTube channel www.youtube.com/@SouthHamsCouncil

Further information about the Plymouth and South Devon Freeport can be found at www.southhams.gov.uk/freeport

Welcome To Our December Newsletter!

Posted on 6th December 20236th December 2023 by admin

Strategy to help the region prepare for a warmer world launched

Devon Climate Emergency | December 2023

Welcome To Our December Newsletter!

There are many actions already taking place across Devon that are successfully reducing greenhouse gas emissions and implementing the Devon Carbon Plan. Here are our picks for the month!

You can see more positive actions and stay updated throughout the month by visiting the Taking Action page on our website.

Multimillion Pound Investment Into Region’s Hydrogen Ecosystem

Aerial photo of the University of Exeter

Funding has been obtained to maximise the potential of the South West’s hydrogen ecosystem, driving the development of hydrogen skills, infrastructure and technology.

The GW-SHIFT: Great Western Supercluster of Hydrogen Impact for Future Technologies project, led by the Universities of Bath and Exeter, has secured £2.5 million from the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) as part of their Place Based Impact Acceleration Account awards (PBIAA).

The Western Gateway Hydrogen Delivery Pathway calculates that investing in hydrogen infrastructure within the area could create up to new 40,000 new jobs and safeguard a further 60,000 existing jobs

Read More

Rail Improvements To Be Delivered In The South West

Government has confirmed that it “will deliver rail improvements in the South West”, including Devon County Council’s project to reinstate five miles of track and deliver a new single platform station at Tavistock, which would serve communities in Tavistock, Horrabridge, Lamerton, and Mary Tavy.

Other projects mentioned include making the route between Exeter and Plymouth through Dawlish more resilient in the face of extreme weather, and Mid Devon District Council’s work to reintroduce rail services to Wellington and Cullompton.

Read More

Devon Pension Fund To Create Jobs In Renewable Energy

Devon County Council’s Investment and Pensions Fund Committee, which oversees management of the Devon Pension Fund (the county’s largest single pension fund) has decided to commit investments to renewable energy technologies.

The Devon Pension Fund is therefore playing a major part in helping to create local jobs in renewable energy and associated infrastructure, while providing clean energy to the national grid.

The Committee decided in June 2023 to commit £60 million to a new Local Impact Fund focused on the South West called Greencoat Wessex Gardens fund, managed by Greencoat Schroders.

Five other Local Government Pension Schemes in the South West, in addition to the Devon Pension Fund, have also committed to the Greencoat Wessex Gardens fund, totalling £330 million in commitments.

Read More

Future-proof Your Career with Green Skills Bootcamps

Man smiling train for tomorrow your career elevated

Train4Tomorrow Skills Bootcamps are offering free training that is co-designed with employers to meet local skills need.

Gain industry-specific skills to future-proof your career with Skills Bootcamps in regenerative agriculture, ecology and conservation, electric vehicle and future of construction.

Find Out More

Fund for Climate Adaptation Innovation Opens

Are you working on climate adaptation? ARSINOE has opened its second fund for climate adaptation innovation and one of the regions selected for the project is Torbay.

They are looking for innovative solutions which help enhance European regions enhance their resilience to climate impacts such as flooding and extreme heat. Selected innovators may receive up to EUR 50,000 for demonstration activities.

Deadline 8th January 2024

Read More And Apply

Website launch: Improving Resilience to Flooding in Communities Across Devon

Find out how the Devon Resilience Innovation Project (DRIP) is installing natural flood management measures, trialling new technologies and progressing with innovative projects to improve flood resilience in 26 communities across Devon, on the new DRIP website.

Check out the latest news on the website, where you can find more detailed information on the projects and the communities we are working with, and don't forget to sign up to the newsletter and follow DRIP on social media.

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Climate Adaptation Strategy Launched

John Galt Photo of fire engine in flooded road

The Devon, Cornwall and Isles of Scilly (DCIoS) Climate Adaptation Strategy has now been published and will help to ensure that the region can make the changes needed to cope with the worst effects of climate change.

Its publication comes after a consultation earlier this year in which 76% of respondents expressed concern about climate change and 69% said they have felt the effects of climate change already.

Climate change will continue to impact Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. Critical infrastructure, community assets like schools and hospitals, homes, the environment, businesses and public services are all sensitive to weather and climate. Taking a proactive approach to adapt to climate change will result in many benefits, creating a fairer, healthier, more resilient and prosperous society now and into the future.

The Adaptation Strategy has been developed by the DCIoS Climate Impacts Group - a partnership of strategic organisations, including local authorities, that is chaired by the Environment Agency - with the assistance of RSK, an engineering and environmental consultancy.

Read the Strategy, learn about how climate change will impact the region, and see resources for individuals, communities, organisations and local policy makers at climateresponse.org.uk

Photo credit: John Galt

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Devon at Risk of Exceeding Current Carbon Budget

Devon Emissions by sector (including Torbay and Plymouth), 2021

Each year the University of Exeter calculates Devon’s carbon footprint - the amount of greenhouse gases emitted to the atmosphere by activities within Devon, Plymouth and Torbay’s boundaries. Due to the time taken for the data sets used to be released, there is usually a two year delay. The latest available data is for 2021, when Devon's carbon footprint was 7.67 million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent. Emissions have bounced back 6 % in 2021 compared to 2020 when emissions reductions were heavily shaped by COVID restrictions.

In order to track progress Devon has a carbon budget, outlining the emissions which can occur whilst remaining on track for a 50% reduction by 2030 from 2010 levels and net-zero by 2050 at the latest. However, the latest figures suggest emissions are likely to exceed the current budget period by 9%, highlighting the need for urgent action on emissions.

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Find out about upcoming events across Devon below.

Woodland Creation Grants and Incentives,

6 December - 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm - FREE

This workshop takes you through a step-by-step guide to help you to understand the advantages and application processes when considering planting trees on your farm as part of a diversification plan.

This workshop is available to any farmer or land manager in Devon, Somerset, Dorset, Cornwall, or the Isles of Scilly currently in receipt of BPS payments.

Find Out More and Register

Energy 361 at Holsworthy Hub

6th December, 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm

361 Energy CIC are attending the Holsworthy Monthly Hub at Holsworthy Hospital on 6th December 2-4pm to give free energy advice to those worried about their energy bills or are interested in learning how to be more energy efficient.

For people living with or beyond cancer

Find Out More

Exploring SFI Options for Your Farm in 2023

7 December - 11:30 am to 2:00 pm, FREE

This workshop will look at the options available under the Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI), including a deep dive into the six new standards being introduced in 2023, and how these can be applied on your farm.

This workshop is available to any farmer or land manager in Devon, Somerset, Dorset, Cornwall, or the Isles of Scilly currently in receipt of BPS payments.

Find Out More And Register

Getting to Grips With Gears - Winter Evening Workshop Class, 7th December - FREE

Booking for the evening workshops is essential.

EmailTotnesbikehub@gmail.com, phone or pop into the shop to book your place!

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Totnes Bike Hub 'Bike Kitchen' - Self Supported Use of Workshop Space & Tools, 9th December, 10:00 am - 12:00 pm - FREE

No booking is required for the Bike Kitchen.

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Wrapping Workshop

The Torbay Climate Action Hub, Sunday 10th Dec, 10am-12pm (drop-in)

Join us for another Christmas wrapping workshop in collaboration with Play Torbay, saving beautiful scrap paper and ribbons from the bin and spreading some festive cheer. Ideal for children and adults alike 🎁

Learn More about Play Torbay

Exeter Green Circle sign pointing down path

Have your say on Exeter's Green Circle,

till 20th December

Exeter City Council want your views on the Green Circle – a 12 mile circular route of footpaths and cycle paths around Exeter.

Understanding how it is currently used will help ensure that more people know about it and are able to use it in the future.

All survey respondents are eligible to be entered into a prize draw to win one of 10 X £35 InExeter vouchers. Simply opt-in to the draw once you’ve completed the survey.

Respond to the Survey

Monday Morning Mends

Mondays throughout Dec 2023 at the Torbay Climate Action Hub 9am-12pm (drop-in)

Join fabric mending extraordinaire, Anna, each Monday morning and learn basic techniques such as darning and patching, to keep your threads lasting longer 🧵

TCA fabric mend event every Monday 9am - 12pm drop in tools and refreshments available or bring your own

Find the TCA Hub Here

A Greener Way for Our Bay – Have your say - Survey Now Live

If you live in Torbay then Torbay Council want to hear your views to help them plan for a changing world.

The new consultation – ‘A Greener Way For Our Bay’ – aims to engage with local people on the Torbay Climate Partnership’s new plans for reducing the Bay’s carbon footprint and preparing for a changing climate. The Partnership is made up of a wide range of organisations in Torbay from the public, private, community and voluntary sectors.

Find Out More

Devon Climate Emergency
County Hall, Topsham Road
Exeter, Devon EX2 4QD

devonclimateemergencyorg.uk | media enquiries | contact