The West Devon Hub Committee meeting on 11 June 2024 covered significant topics including the launch of the West Devon Housing Offer, the establishment of a Community Development Framework, and a review of long stay pay and display charges. Key decisions were made to support affordable housing, enhance community development, and amend parking regulations.

The West Devon Housing Offer

The committee approved the implementation of the West Devon Housing Offer to support community housing development. The initiative aims to facilitate the creation of Community Land Trusts and self-build projects. The Head of Housing highlighted that the offer would align with Neighbourhood Plans to address affordable housing needs identified in the Housing Parish Profiles. A specific focus was placed on the progress of the Princetown site, jointly owned by the Council and the Dartmoor National Park Authority (DNPA). An amendment clarified that a grant of £173,000 from DNPA's Section 106 receipts would be used exclusively for affordable housing in Princetown.

The setting up of these community-led trusts will be supported, and money will be available, said the Head of Housing.

The committee resolved to launch the housing offer, note the initial budget of £50,000, and utilise the DNPA grant for Princetown.

Working with Our Communities – Our Framework for Community Development

The committee endorsed a new Community Development Framework aimed at supporting community initiatives across West Devon. The framework includes re-establishing Parish Links meetings and forming a new Community Development Team. The discussion emphasised the economic benefits of arts and culture and recognised the hard work of staff in bringing the team together.

Community Development cuts across all portfolio areas, noted a member during the discussion.

The committee resolved to endorse the framework and note the establishment of the new team.

Long Stay Pay & Display Charges Consultation Review

The committee reviewed the results of a public consultation on proposed amendments to the West Devon Borough Council Off Street Parking Places Order 2022. The majority of objections came from Tavistock, likely due to recent on-street parking issues. The committee approved several amendments, including changes to pay and display charges, extending the maximum stay at Abbey car park, and removing Brentor and Lydford car parks from the order.

Devon County Members should be copied into any future consultation responses to ensure a response is given, suggested a member.

The committee resolved to approve the amendments and request proactive consultation from Devon County Council on future on-street parking changes in Tavistock and Okehampton.