A District Councillor’s Monthly Update -March 2022
I plan this to be a regular update on the work I’m doing as District Councillor for the parishes of Newton St Cyres, Shobrooke and Stockleigh Pomeroy.
Development and Planning
Mid Devon Council have recently been consulting on the first part of its new Local Plan. For those of you who don’t know what a Local plan is, it sets out the locations or sites for major new housing and business development over a twenty year period. This Plan is for the period 22/23 The Plan also includes policies that determine the kind of developments that are permitted in particular areas, including how they look and are designed.
The Local Plan is an important statutory document which means that, once it has been agreed, it has the force of law.
The consultation has been about the main planning policies that are to be contained in the Plan. These include important policies on protecting the environment, on development in rural settings and in villages and also policies about development in and around the main towns like Crediton.
As local councillor I’ve been actively promoting a policy in the new Local Plan to promote sustainable rural communities and to ensure a joined up approach to planning larger developments in and around Crediton.
Sustainable Rural communities
In order to be sustainable villages must have a diverse mix of people from different backgrounds, including young and old, rich and not so rich. Ideally villages should be capable of sustaining a school, shop and pub. As we know we face a growing issue of housing affordability. This is linked to many villages having an imbalance of older people over families with children. I’m keen to see policies in the Local Plan that promote community led housing schemes in villages. These schemes would include a high proportion of social and affordable rented houses focussed on the needs of local people. Such schemes would include houses for families and also houses for older people that allow local people to downsize and stay in the community in which they’ve lived. I’m optimistic that we can see such a policy in the new Local Plan. I’m also optimistic that we can get such schemes built in Newton St Cyres and in Shobrooke.
Larger developments in and around Crediton
Some of you will remember the recent Greater Exeter Strategic Plan or GESP. This plan was about imposing many hundreds of new homes along the Creedy valley between Cowley and Crediton in an attempt to compensate for Exeter’s inability to build sufficient new homes to meet its housing targets. These houses would have resulted in destructive and ugly ribbon development without any change to a major road system that is already unfit for purpose.
Fortunately we were able to put a stop to the GESP. However the risk of major development between Crediton and Exeter has not gone away. There are some large and powerful commercial interests keen to build and sell new homes in an area where both house prices and the demand for houses is high.
Planners are keen to meet their targets for new homes.
Next year Mid Devon Council will be issuing, in the next stage of the new Local Plan, its options for the major sites on which it will propose to build hundreds of additional new houses. Some of these sites will, inevitably, be located in and around Crediton. It is also likely the development sites that were proposed for Newton St Cyres in the GESP will find their way back into the site options for the new Local Plan.
Even in the unlikely event that no major housing developments are proposed for the Parishes of Shobrooke and Newton St Cyres more development in Crediton will mean even more pressure on our local roads, our schools and on our health facilities.
Crediton already has several sites for major housing and retail developments that are either in the process of being built out or will soon be built on. These are already imposing a burden on local roads and services. The problem has been a lack of joined up planning and a lot of wishful thinking by both Mid Devon and Devon County Councils.
For example neither the new Tarka View (aka Tesco View) development nor the planned development of another 250 homes at Creedy Bridge have included consideration of the impact on traffic along the A377 between Crediton and Exeter nor the impact of through traffic though Shobrooke. Neither has there been any consideration of the likely impact of these developments on education and health services for communities outside of Crediton who depend on these services in Crediton.
This is unacceptable. I have been working with the Parish Councils, Crediton Town Council and with other local District and County councillors to try to put this right before we get any more proposals for new development sites. We are asking both Mid Devon and the County Council to work with us now to ensure a joined up approach to new development. We are keen to ensure that any new homes meet local need, are in keeping with our villages and countryside and are supported by joined up planning on roads, schools and health services.
All comments on this update are welcome, though some may be more welcome than others! Please send these to me at gbarnell@middevon.gov.uk.
The next monthly update will focus on our local work on improvement to transport, road safety and on the environment.
I plan this to be a regular update on the work I’m doing as District Councillor for the parishes of Newton St Cyres, Shobrooke and Stockleigh Pomeroy.
Development and Planning
Mid Devon Council have recently been consulting on the first part of its new Local Plan. For those of you who don’t know what a Local plan is, it sets out the locations or sites for major new housing and business development over a twenty year period. This Plan is for the period 22/23 The Plan also includes policies that determine the kind of developments that are permitted in particular areas, including how they look and are designed.
The Local Plan is an important statutory document which means that, once it has been agreed, it has the force of law.
The consultation has been about the main planning policies that are to be contained in the Plan. These include important policies on protecting the environment, on development in rural settings and in villages and also policies about development in and around the main towns like Crediton.
As local councillor I’ve been actively promoting a policy in the new Local Plan to promote sustainable rural communities and to ensure a joined up approach to planning larger developments in and around Crediton.
Sustainable Rural communities
In order to be sustainable villages must have a diverse mix of people from different backgrounds, including young and old, rich and not so rich. Ideally villages should be capable of sustaining a school, shop and pub. As we know we face a growing issue of housing affordability. This is linked to many villages having an imbalance of older people over families with children. I’m keen to see policies in the Local Plan that promote community led housing schemes in villages. These schemes would include a high proportion of social and affordable rented houses focussed on the needs of local people. Such schemes would include houses for families and also houses for older people that allow local people to downsize and stay in the community in which they’ve lived. I’m optimistic that we can see such a policy in the new Local Plan. I’m also optimistic that we can get such schemes built in Newton St Cyres and in Shobrooke.
Larger developments in and around Crediton
Some of you will remember the recent Greater Exeter Strategic Plan or GESP. This plan was about imposing many hundreds of new homes along the Creedy valley between Cowley and Crediton in an attempt to compensate for Exeter’s inability to build sufficient new homes to meet its housing targets. These houses would have resulted in destructive and ugly ribbon development without any change to a major road system that is already unfit for purpose.
Fortunately we were able to put a stop to the GESP. However the risk of major development between Crediton and Exeter has not gone away. There are some large and powerful commercial interests keen to build and sell new homes in an area where both house prices and the demand for houses is high.
Planners are keen to meet their targets for new homes.
Next year Mid Devon Council will be issuing, in the next stage of the new Local Plan, its options for the major sites on which it will propose to build hundreds of additional new houses. Some of these sites will, inevitably, be located in and around Crediton. It is also likely the development sites that were proposed for Newton St Cyres in the GESP will find their way back into the site options for the new Local Plan.
Even in the unlikely event that no major housing developments are proposed for the Parishes of Shobrooke and Newton St Cyres more development in Crediton will mean even more pressure on our local roads, our schools and on our health facilities.
Crediton already has several sites for major housing and retail developments that are either in the process of being built out or will soon be built on. These are already imposing a burden on local roads and services. The problem has been a lack of joined up planning and a lot of wishful thinking by both Mid Devon and Devon County Councils.
For example neither the new Tarka View (aka Tesco View) development nor the planned development of another 250 homes at Creedy Bridge have included consideration of the impact on traffic along the A377 between Crediton and Exeter nor the impact of through traffic though Shobrooke. Neither has there been any consideration of the likely impact of these developments on education and health services for communities outside of Crediton who depend on these services in Crediton.
This is unacceptable. I have been working with the Parish Councils, Crediton Town Council and with other local District and County councillors to try to put this right before we get any more proposals for new development sites. We are asking both Mid Devon and the County Council to work with us now to ensure a joined up approach to new development. We are keen to ensure that any new homes meet local need, are in keeping with our villages and countryside and are supported by joined up planning on roads, schools and health services.
All comments on this update are welcome, though some may be more welcome than others! Please send these to me at gbarnell@middevon.gov.uk.
The next monthly update will focus on our local work on improvement to transport, road safety and on the environment.
CORONAVIRUS
GRANTS AND HELP FROM 31ST MARCH2021
GRANTS AND HELP FROM 31ST MARCH2021
The Government have notified Authorities with regards to the next round of grant payments for the period 16th February 2021 – 31st March 2021 (44 days).
Funding £2,296,743
BEIS’ have confirmed the money should be transferred at the end of next week, depending on when the funding has been received the team will action a payment run within the same day.
Grant Payment Table
Please Note: The Business Lockdown Payment (top up) made for the period 05th January 2021 – 15th February 2021 will not be paid again for this new period.
Beyond 31st March 2021
Website Link to the Application Form and Grant Information
https://www.middevon.gov.uk/residents/national-lockdown-support-for-communities-and-businesses/business-support-across-mid-devon/financial-support-for-businesses-during-national-restrictions/
If you need any advice please contact any of the following officers and or email: businessgrants@middevon.gov.uk
Dean Emery: demery@middevon.gov.uk
Fiona Wilkinson: fwilkinson@middevon.gov.uk
Chris Shears: cshears@middevon.gov.uk
Best Wishes
Dean Emery
Dean Emery Corporate Manager: Revenues, Benefits & Recovery | Mid Devon District Council | Phoenix House | Phoenix Lane | Tiverton | EX16 6PP
Direct dial: 01884 234945 | Mobile: 07815674627 | Switchboard: 01884 255255 | Email: demery@middevon.gov.uk | Website: www.middevon.gov.uk
Access your Council Tax account online 24/7 @ www.middevon.gov.uk/mycounciltaxaccount
Access your Business Rates account online 24/7 @ www.middevon.gov.uk/mybusinessratesaccount
Access your Housing Benefit and Council tax reduction online 24/7 @ www.middevon.gov.uk/myhousingbenefitaccount
- Government have said they will advise Authorities of any schemes beyond this date near the time, please be aware this could be at very short notice.
- Government are working on end dates for the grant schemes from the November lockdown – updates will follow when known.
Website Link to the Application Form and Grant Information
https://www.middevon.gov.uk/residents/national-lockdown-support-for-communities-and-businesses/business-support-across-mid-devon/financial-support-for-businesses-during-national-restrictions/
If you need any advice please contact any of the following officers and or email: businessgrants@middevon.gov.uk
Dean Emery: demery@middevon.gov.uk
Fiona Wilkinson: fwilkinson@middevon.gov.uk
Chris Shears: cshears@middevon.gov.uk
Best Wishes
Dean Emery
Dean Emery Corporate Manager: Revenues, Benefits & Recovery | Mid Devon District Council | Phoenix House | Phoenix Lane | Tiverton | EX16 6PP
Direct dial: 01884 234945 | Mobile: 07815674627 | Switchboard: 01884 255255 | Email: demery@middevon.gov.uk | Website: www.middevon.gov.uk
Access your Council Tax account online 24/7 @ www.middevon.gov.uk/mycounciltaxaccount
Access your Business Rates account online 24/7 @ www.middevon.gov.uk/mybusinessratesaccount
Access your Housing Benefit and Council tax reduction online 24/7 @ www.middevon.gov.uk/myhousingbenefitaccount
Please Note: The Business Lockdown Payment (top up) made for the period 05th January 2021 – 15th February 2021 will not be paid again for this new period.
MID DEVON COUNCIL GOVERNANCE REVIEW.
Graeme Barnell, our MDDC councillor writes:- A number of people have recently expressed concerns to me about how democracy in Mid Devon Council works and how the Mid Devon District Council is run. Here's your chance to give your views.
Graeme Barnell, our MDDC councillor writes:- A number of people have recently expressed concerns to me about how democracy in Mid Devon Council works and how the Mid Devon District Council is run. Here's your chance to give your views.
News from Mid Devon District Council
Thurs 7th May 2020
Thurs 7th May 2020
Business Assistance
MDDC, has been working hard in processing Business Grants. To date nearly £16m of business grants have now been issued following 1,383 applications. Work continues with this including extensive cold calling to notify business who have yet to claim.
The Government recently announced the creation of Discretionary Business Grants. The Government considers that this will be essential for many small businesses, including market traders & B&Bs. The scheme cannot go live until the Government issues full guidance next week. This means that the subsequent application processes will need to be developed in partnership with neighbouring Districts once the national guidance is issued to ensure a consistent approach for the business community. This subsequent development of interpretation and assessment criteria will take a few days to complete following the publication of government guidance. As this scheme will require businesses to demonstrate how the pandemic has affected their businesses and the scale of their financial loss, this will result in a great deal of analysis from the GED team which inevitably will be time consuming.
Where businesses are not eligible for these funds the team are signposting them to the Growth Hub. In certain circumstances, where individuals are facing specific hardships, we are directing people to the community schemes set out below.
Community Support
A Shielding Hub has been set up to ensure that the extremely vulnerable are provided for. Whilst the government had set up food packages for the vulnerable, via local wholesalers, there is often a regular two week delay in these deliveries coming through. The District Council has been stepping in to assist to help with provisions during the time before supplies come through. The Shielding Hub has had 86 referrals and 72 emergency food packages have gone out. Of those that are having government food packages sent to them, there are 23 people in Mid Devon who need specialist food supplies which the shielding hub are also providing for. This work has been done in partnership with CHAT whose activities have increased fourfold in the last few weeks. For example on a single day last week they dealt with 61 deliveries. The GED team have led on coordinating the community response to vulnerable residents. This has also included organising the use of the Council’s own vehicles to assist.
The Mid Devon Covid 19 Support Fund (DCC funded £102, 700) is a hardship fund for essential crisis payments which has only recently been set up. To date there have been 15 applications received. It is for those individuals who are in considerable financial distress. It could potentially benefit those that are self-employed, those who are furloughed or have lost their jobs, or are on zero hour contracts and fall outside the scope of the business grants coming from the Government.
Demand is likely to increase in the coming months as some of the longer term economic impacts of lockdown kick in.
A link to our webpage can be found below:
https://www.middevon.gov.uk/residents/coronavirus-support-for-communities-and-businesses/
Recovery
The Government emergency assistance has cushioned the immediate economic effects of the pandemic; however there are significant concerns about business impacts going forward. As referred to above the team has been prioritising its resources to deal with emergency responses and will need to continue to do so; however the team has been embarking upon considering recovery measures and next steps. Given the likely scale of the challenge ahead we recognise that there will need to be increased emphasis on partnership working. Devon County Council has recently set up a Business and Economic Recovery Task Group with a range of organisations (inc. the Heart of the South West Local Economic Partnership, key sector/business representatives etc). We are actively involved with this group and the team continue to have discussions with a range of other partners during this time. We will update members as recovery measures start to become clearer over the coming weeks.
Cllr Graeme Barnell
Cabinet responsibility for Planning and Regeneration
Newbrooke Ward
Mid Devon District Council
01392 851308
07564541572
Facebook messaging:- https://www.facebook.com/Graeme-Barnell-District-Councillor-476396543103535/
Web Page:- https://www.newtonwonder.net/mid-devon-district-councillor.html
MDDC, has been working hard in processing Business Grants. To date nearly £16m of business grants have now been issued following 1,383 applications. Work continues with this including extensive cold calling to notify business who have yet to claim.
The Government recently announced the creation of Discretionary Business Grants. The Government considers that this will be essential for many small businesses, including market traders & B&Bs. The scheme cannot go live until the Government issues full guidance next week. This means that the subsequent application processes will need to be developed in partnership with neighbouring Districts once the national guidance is issued to ensure a consistent approach for the business community. This subsequent development of interpretation and assessment criteria will take a few days to complete following the publication of government guidance. As this scheme will require businesses to demonstrate how the pandemic has affected their businesses and the scale of their financial loss, this will result in a great deal of analysis from the GED team which inevitably will be time consuming.
Where businesses are not eligible for these funds the team are signposting them to the Growth Hub. In certain circumstances, where individuals are facing specific hardships, we are directing people to the community schemes set out below.
Community Support
A Shielding Hub has been set up to ensure that the extremely vulnerable are provided for. Whilst the government had set up food packages for the vulnerable, via local wholesalers, there is often a regular two week delay in these deliveries coming through. The District Council has been stepping in to assist to help with provisions during the time before supplies come through. The Shielding Hub has had 86 referrals and 72 emergency food packages have gone out. Of those that are having government food packages sent to them, there are 23 people in Mid Devon who need specialist food supplies which the shielding hub are also providing for. This work has been done in partnership with CHAT whose activities have increased fourfold in the last few weeks. For example on a single day last week they dealt with 61 deliveries. The GED team have led on coordinating the community response to vulnerable residents. This has also included organising the use of the Council’s own vehicles to assist.
The Mid Devon Covid 19 Support Fund (DCC funded £102, 700) is a hardship fund for essential crisis payments which has only recently been set up. To date there have been 15 applications received. It is for those individuals who are in considerable financial distress. It could potentially benefit those that are self-employed, those who are furloughed or have lost their jobs, or are on zero hour contracts and fall outside the scope of the business grants coming from the Government.
Demand is likely to increase in the coming months as some of the longer term economic impacts of lockdown kick in.
A link to our webpage can be found below:
https://www.middevon.gov.uk/residents/coronavirus-support-for-communities-and-businesses/
Recovery
The Government emergency assistance has cushioned the immediate economic effects of the pandemic; however there are significant concerns about business impacts going forward. As referred to above the team has been prioritising its resources to deal with emergency responses and will need to continue to do so; however the team has been embarking upon considering recovery measures and next steps. Given the likely scale of the challenge ahead we recognise that there will need to be increased emphasis on partnership working. Devon County Council has recently set up a Business and Economic Recovery Task Group with a range of organisations (inc. the Heart of the South West Local Economic Partnership, key sector/business representatives etc). We are actively involved with this group and the team continue to have discussions with a range of other partners during this time. We will update members as recovery measures start to become clearer over the coming weeks.
Cllr Graeme Barnell
Cabinet responsibility for Planning and Regeneration
Newbrooke Ward
Mid Devon District Council
01392 851308
07564541572
Facebook messaging:- https://www.facebook.com/Graeme-Barnell-District-Councillor-476396543103535/
Web Page:- https://www.newtonwonder.net/mid-devon-district-councillor.html
A377 Road Safety meeting
8th October 2019 NSC Parish Hall
8th October 2019 NSC Parish Hall
Attended
Cllr Margaret Squires (DCC), Cllr Roger Cashmore (Newton St Cyres PC) , Cllr Graeme Barnell (MDDC)
Jamie Hulland Transport Strategy and Road Safety Manager (DCC) , Tom Vaughan Neighbourhood Highways Manager (DCC), Ian Sorenson Highway Development Control Officer (DCC)
ROAD CROSSING NSC VILLAGE
The meeting focussed on the fourth and most recent proposal for a controlled crossing in the centre of NSC Village (OPTION D). DCC Officers reported that the original proposal had been worked up into preliminary drawings. These were shared with the meeting and various aspects of the design were discussed. it was agreed that the design is much simpler, more affordable and less invasive of public space and private land than the previous options. The meeting agreed that: -
CREDITON TO EXETER CYCLEWAY
JH had offered a meeting to the Boniface Trail Trustees at the beginning of November to discuss how best to support their work. However, it was not clear whether the Trustees would take up this offer. (In the event the Boniface Trustees declined the offer of a meeting.)
GB explained that, as well as making a big contribution to road safety and leisure the proposed cycleway is a key part of the “green infrastructure” required to address the targeted reduction in carbon emissions. Given that DCC have now included the cycleway as an ambition in their forward plan GB will be working with local district, parish and county councillors along the route to ensure the work is given the impetus and the resources it requires.
HALF MOON
RC and GB raised continuing concerns about road safety issues at Half Moon, especially the lack of pavement between the layby and the bus stop, the safety of the road crossing and the lack of pavement beyond PR Cars toward Exeter. DCC officers made is clear that they would not be able to support further expenditure in the Parish at this stage given the likely cost of the NSC Road Crossing. Cllr MS confirmed that, as County Councillor, she has other priorities for road safety measures in the much wider area that she serves.
GB and RC explained that the road safety issues at Half Moon remain pressing and cannot be ignored.
IS agreed to contact Hanlons Brewery to establish whether their planned holiday cottages development would go ahead.
NEXT MEETING
We agreed to meet again in the New Year.
GB 25/11/19
Cllr Margaret Squires (DCC), Cllr Roger Cashmore (Newton St Cyres PC) , Cllr Graeme Barnell (MDDC)
Jamie Hulland Transport Strategy and Road Safety Manager (DCC) , Tom Vaughan Neighbourhood Highways Manager (DCC), Ian Sorenson Highway Development Control Officer (DCC)
ROAD CROSSING NSC VILLAGE
The meeting focussed on the fourth and most recent proposal for a controlled crossing in the centre of NSC Village (OPTION D). DCC Officers reported that the original proposal had been worked up into preliminary drawings. These were shared with the meeting and various aspects of the design were discussed. it was agreed that the design is much simpler, more affordable and less invasive of public space and private land than the previous options. The meeting agreed that: -
- DCC should carry out more design work on this option
- A Stage 1 Road Safety Audit would then be carried out on the design.
- The DCC designer will then respond to any safety concerns or requirements for mitigations coming arising from the Audit.
- DCC will then formally consider the scheme for approval. If approved, it will go forward for implementation in the next financial year (20/21)
- Roger Cashmore (on behalf of the NSC PC) will post drawings of Option 4 on the PC Website and in the Newton Wonder.
- We would meet again in the New Year to review progress.
CREDITON TO EXETER CYCLEWAY
JH had offered a meeting to the Boniface Trail Trustees at the beginning of November to discuss how best to support their work. However, it was not clear whether the Trustees would take up this offer. (In the event the Boniface Trustees declined the offer of a meeting.)
GB explained that, as well as making a big contribution to road safety and leisure the proposed cycleway is a key part of the “green infrastructure” required to address the targeted reduction in carbon emissions. Given that DCC have now included the cycleway as an ambition in their forward plan GB will be working with local district, parish and county councillors along the route to ensure the work is given the impetus and the resources it requires.
HALF MOON
RC and GB raised continuing concerns about road safety issues at Half Moon, especially the lack of pavement between the layby and the bus stop, the safety of the road crossing and the lack of pavement beyond PR Cars toward Exeter. DCC officers made is clear that they would not be able to support further expenditure in the Parish at this stage given the likely cost of the NSC Road Crossing. Cllr MS confirmed that, as County Councillor, she has other priorities for road safety measures in the much wider area that she serves.
GB and RC explained that the road safety issues at Half Moon remain pressing and cannot be ignored.
IS agreed to contact Hanlons Brewery to establish whether their planned holiday cottages development would go ahead.
NEXT MEETING
We agreed to meet again in the New Year.
GB 25/11/19
Newbrooke Ward Report October 2019
Graeme Barnell Mid Devon District Councillor
Mid Devon estates
I am currently dealing with tenants’ requests for action about broken down vehicles being left on the Tytheing estate in NSC. The legal process required to take ownership of and remove vehicles is very time consuming. However Mid Devon Council is doing its best to sort out these problems.
Road and Cycle Way improvements
The A377 Road Safety Group had its second meeting on 8th October. The meeting was as usual attended by Cllrs Margaret Squires, Cashmore and myself together with officers from the County Council Highways Dept. A new option for a controlled (Toucan) crossing in the centre of Newton village was discussed. Unlike the previous options this plan has the merit of simplicity and will not involve either land purchase and/or taking a large piece of the Village Green. The Parish Council will be posting details on its own webpages and on the Newton Wonder Website for information and comment.
Devon County Council will now submit this plan for an independent Road Safety Audit. This is required by law. If all goes well the scheme could be then approved by the County Council for building work in the next financial year. We’ll be looking for good news after Christmas.
We also discussed the proposed dual use cycle/pedestrian path from Crediton to Exeter. We hope to hold a meeting in early November with the Trustees of the Boniface Trail who have been working to deliver this path. The aim is to provide the Trustees with better support from the statutory agencies.
Finally, we agreed that the next priority for the Group should be safe paths in Half Moon for people on foot. To get this work done we will need to identify some money as there is none available at the moment.
Twenty is Plenty in West Town
With the help of neighbours, I put letter out to 70 households from the A377 turn in NSC along West Town Lane and up to Sherwood seeking views on whether residents support or do not support a proposed: -
There will soon be a meeting with those who are offering help so we can work out a proposal to the PC for the cost and placement of informal signs and the application to DCC for a formal 20mph zone. It has been noted that in neighbouring communities Bramford Speke already has a formal 20mph zone along the main street through the village.
Shobrooke Parish Council are now asking me how they might take forward a similar scheme.
Langford Lorry Traffic
Residents of Langford are asking for action because their lives are being badly affected by a large volume of heavy lorry traffic through their village. I’ve been working with Devon County Councillor Margaret Squires to in an attempt improve matters. These matters are still ongoing.
Climate emergency
I am interested in setting up a local Climate Emergency Action Group across both NSC and Shobrooke. The idea is to bring local people together to: -
Mid Devon Planning and Regeneration
I have the lead role in Cabinet for Planning and Regeneration. This continues to involve me in a lot of work in and around Cullompton and Tiverton where there are major developments planned. At the moment there are no new developments planned in Newbrooke Ward. The Greater Exeter Strategic Plan (GESP) may have implications for our Parishes but this continues to be delayed
Graeme Barnell
District Councillor
Newbrooke Ward
Mid Devon District Council
Halses, West Town,
Newton St Cyres,
Devon,
EX5 5BS
Landline 01392 851308
Mobile 07564541572
Website Page https://www.newtonwonder.net/mid-devon-district-councillor.html
Facebook Page and Messages:- https://www.facebook.com/Graeme-Barnell-District-Councillor-476396543103535/
Mid Devon estates
I am currently dealing with tenants’ requests for action about broken down vehicles being left on the Tytheing estate in NSC. The legal process required to take ownership of and remove vehicles is very time consuming. However Mid Devon Council is doing its best to sort out these problems.
Road and Cycle Way improvements
The A377 Road Safety Group had its second meeting on 8th October. The meeting was as usual attended by Cllrs Margaret Squires, Cashmore and myself together with officers from the County Council Highways Dept. A new option for a controlled (Toucan) crossing in the centre of Newton village was discussed. Unlike the previous options this plan has the merit of simplicity and will not involve either land purchase and/or taking a large piece of the Village Green. The Parish Council will be posting details on its own webpages and on the Newton Wonder Website for information and comment.
Devon County Council will now submit this plan for an independent Road Safety Audit. This is required by law. If all goes well the scheme could be then approved by the County Council for building work in the next financial year. We’ll be looking for good news after Christmas.
We also discussed the proposed dual use cycle/pedestrian path from Crediton to Exeter. We hope to hold a meeting in early November with the Trustees of the Boniface Trail who have been working to deliver this path. The aim is to provide the Trustees with better support from the statutory agencies.
Finally, we agreed that the next priority for the Group should be safe paths in Half Moon for people on foot. To get this work done we will need to identify some money as there is none available at the moment.
Twenty is Plenty in West Town
With the help of neighbours, I put letter out to 70 households from the A377 turn in NSC along West Town Lane and up to Sherwood seeking views on whether residents support or do not support a proposed: -
- Official 20mph speed limit along West Town Lane.
- Informal interim “20 in Plenty” signs along West Town Lane.
There will soon be a meeting with those who are offering help so we can work out a proposal to the PC for the cost and placement of informal signs and the application to DCC for a formal 20mph zone. It has been noted that in neighbouring communities Bramford Speke already has a formal 20mph zone along the main street through the village.
Shobrooke Parish Council are now asking me how they might take forward a similar scheme.
Langford Lorry Traffic
Residents of Langford are asking for action because their lives are being badly affected by a large volume of heavy lorry traffic through their village. I’ve been working with Devon County Councillor Margaret Squires to in an attempt improve matters. These matters are still ongoing.
Climate emergency
I am interested in setting up a local Climate Emergency Action Group across both NSC and Shobrooke. The idea is to bring local people together to: -
- Share information about good practice and other local schemes aimed at reducing greenhouse gases.
- Plan local action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
- Engage with local authorities, businesses and local people to reduce carbon release.
Mid Devon Planning and Regeneration
I have the lead role in Cabinet for Planning and Regeneration. This continues to involve me in a lot of work in and around Cullompton and Tiverton where there are major developments planned. At the moment there are no new developments planned in Newbrooke Ward. The Greater Exeter Strategic Plan (GESP) may have implications for our Parishes but this continues to be delayed
Graeme Barnell
District Councillor
Newbrooke Ward
Mid Devon District Council
Halses, West Town,
Newton St Cyres,
Devon,
EX5 5BS
Landline 01392 851308
Mobile 07564541572
Website Page https://www.newtonwonder.net/mid-devon-district-councillor.html
Facebook Page and Messages:- https://www.facebook.com/Graeme-Barnell-District-Councillor-476396543103535/
Newbrooke Ward Report August 2019
Road and Cycle Way improvements
I’ve been continuing work to get improvements in road safety, include highway improvements along and adjacent to the A377 and to reduce the need for car use and journeys. Many local people share my belief that we cannot continue with road traffic dividing and dominating our communities in the way that it now does. We need safer road crossing points, more pavements, and dedicated cycle ways.
I am aiming to get a local highways and transport plan agreed by Devon County Council and the Parish Councils. I hope this will give us away forward with the large number of road and transport issues that have been waiting for progress. It should help the local authorities involved to respond to local people who are asking for action.
In July I met with Officers from Devon County Council and County Councillor Margaret Squires together with Roger Cashmore Newton St Cyres Parish Councillor. I am meeting them again in September to discuss how to get this plan done. Like all such plans it will need to be costed with a timetable for implementation. It will also need to be the subject of discussion and consultation with local people
I will be keeping local people informed and updated on progress. If you have views or proposals let me know.
Twenty is Plenty
Some residents along West Town Lane and in Sweetham have told me they want to see a change in speed limits in their locality. The are concerned that 30mph is too fast in narrow country lanes where people live, walk and where children play. The know that this takes time to achieve so they are also asking for informal “Twenty is Plenty” signs along the roads that are causing concern. I agree with this but, before I take this up, I need to ensure that it has the support of most people in these localities. starting in West Town Lane and West Town in September I will be putting a letter in our mailbox asking for your views. Please can you do our best to answer m questions and return this to me.
Langford Lorry Traffic
Residents of Langford are asking for action because their lives are being badly affected by a large volume of heavy lorry traffic through their village. I’ve been working with Devon County Councillor Margaret Squires to in an attempt improve matters.
Climate emergency
I am interested in setting up a local Climate Emergency Action Group. The idea is to bring local people together to: -
- Share information about good practice and other local schemes aimed at reducing greenhouse gases.
- Plan local action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
- Engage with local authorities, businesses and local people to reduce carbon release.
Graeme Barnell
District Councillor
Newbrooke Ward
Mid Devon District Council
Halses, West Town,
Newton St Cyres,
Devon,
EX5 5BS
Landline 01392 851308
Mobile 07564541572
Website Page https://www.newtonwonder.net/mid-devon-district-councillor.html
Facebook Page and Messages:- https://www.facebook.com/Graeme-Barnell-District-Councillor-476396543103535/
Climate Emergency and the local Parish Councils in Shobrooke and Newton St Cyres
Although the PCs have no premises and few assets they do support and sponsor a number of activities and organisations locally. They are also an important source of leadership in engaging with local businesses, schools and householders.
I hope that the PCs will pass their own climate change resolution along lines of that passed unanimously last week by Mid Devon Council. We need to achieve carbon neutral impact on our environment by 2030.
I would also hope the PCs might also set up their own local Climate Emergency Network and invite local businesses, schools (where there's one locally) , voluntary organisations and residents to join. The idea would be to share information about successes in reducing carbon emissions and examples of good practice both locally and in s imilar communities elsewhere.
Graeme Barnell
District Councillor
Although the PCs have no premises and few assets they do support and sponsor a number of activities and organisations locally. They are also an important source of leadership in engaging with local businesses, schools and householders.
I hope that the PCs will pass their own climate change resolution along lines of that passed unanimously last week by Mid Devon Council. We need to achieve carbon neutral impact on our environment by 2030.
I would also hope the PCs might also set up their own local Climate Emergency Network and invite local businesses, schools (where there's one locally) , voluntary organisations and residents to join. The idea would be to share information about successes in reducing carbon emissions and examples of good practice both locally and in s imilar communities elsewhere.
Graeme Barnell
District Councillor
From Graeme Barnell
Climate emergency—doing our bit
Climate emergency—doing our bit
Mid Devon District Council has vowed to be carbon neutral by 2030 and that all decisions will be considered in light of the climate crisis.
Councillors voted unanimously in favour of declaring a climate crisis and adopting the Devon Climate Change Declaration on Wednesday, June 26. Further to that, the Council has agreed to work to the Devon-wide target or new-zero emissions by 2050 but will aim for Mid Devon to be carbon neutral by 2030, an amendment on the original 2050 date as set out by county council.
The Council will also lobby the Government for the finances and powers to act effectively to undertake the necessary measures to ensure the climate crises can be limited to 1.5 degrees and be carbon neutral by 2030.
As District Counccillor for both Newton St Cyres and Shobrooke I will be reporting to these decsions to the Parish Councils and suggesting the suportthe Mid Devon intiative. we can work together with local peoplle to do out bit in meeting the climate challenge.
https://www.devonlive.com/news/devon-news/decisions-consider-climate-crisis-mid-3035878
Graeme Barnell Newbrooke Ward Councillor Report June 2019
Since my election in May I’ve been busy finding out more about my new responsibilities. I’ve also tackling some of the issues that were raised with me during my campaign.
I have been asked to take on lead responsibility for Planning and Regeneration within the new governing Cabinet of Mid Devon Council. The Cabinet will soon be reviewing our responses to the Government on the Local Plan and our involvement in the Greater Exeter Plan.
At the moment I understand that the Parish is not identified by Mid Devon Council for additional housing. However, I will obviously be keeping a close eye on this and I will update if there is new information. I am committed to involving local people in early discussions about any new housing development plans in the Parish
Cllr Graeme Barnell
Newbrooke Ward
Mid Devon District Council
01392 851308
07564541572
Facebook messaging:- https://www.facebook.com/Graeme-Barnell-District-Councillor-476396543103535/
Web Page:- https://www.newtonwonder.net/mid-devon-district-councillor.html
I am very happy to arrange a private meeting either in your home or his if this is needed.
- Communal areas maintenance at Tytheing Close, Court Orchard, Shuttern Close, and New Estate Sweetham
- Road safety and the environment
- Safe(r) road crossing points across the A377 at Smallbrook (bus stop), Newton Village, Tytheing, and Half Moon.
- Pavements/pathways in Half Moon and along Station Rd (between the school and the Bridge).
- Cycle paths particularly the planned Boniface Trail.
- 20mph speed limits on roads where children play especially those without pavements.
- The safety of the crossroads in Newton Village (A377 junction with Church Lane and Station Rd).
- Extending the Park and Ride service in Crediton
- Speeding along the A377 including Newton Village and Half Moon (Average Speed Camera plans)
- Pollution levels in Newton Village
- Planning and Development
I have been asked to take on lead responsibility for Planning and Regeneration within the new governing Cabinet of Mid Devon Council. The Cabinet will soon be reviewing our responses to the Government on the Local Plan and our involvement in the Greater Exeter Plan.
At the moment I understand that the Parish is not identified by Mid Devon Council for additional housing. However, I will obviously be keeping a close eye on this and I will update if there is new information. I am committed to involving local people in early discussions about any new housing development plans in the Parish
- Contact
Cllr Graeme Barnell
Newbrooke Ward
Mid Devon District Council
01392 851308
07564541572
Facebook messaging:- https://www.facebook.com/Graeme-Barnell-District-Councillor-476396543103535/
Web Page:- https://www.newtonwonder.net/mid-devon-district-councillor.html
I am very happy to arrange a private meeting either in your home or his if this is needed.
2nd May Mid-Devon Council Election Results:
Graeme Barnell wins the election for the Newbrooke Ward with 274 votes
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Graeme Barnell, your new Mid Devon District Councillor, can be contacted on 01392 851308 or on his mobile number 07564541572.
Email: gbarnell@middevon.gov.uk He can also be contacted on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Graeme-Barnell-District-Councillor-476396543103535/ He will be providing details of regular surgeries in the near future. In the meantime please contact him if you need help. |
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TWENTY IS PLENTY -WEST TOWN LANE Newton St Cyres
Since my election as District Councillor for Newbrooke I've been asked by several residents who live along West Town Lane what can be done about speeding traffic along the Lane. This is a typical narrow village road with no pavements, housing abutting the road along its length, children playing on the street and people walking along the road to get to the bus stops and the village shop. Elderly people often cannot hear cars approaching.
In my view Twenty MPH is more than plenty but there are often cars, farm traffic and delivery vans driving much too fast down the lane.
I think we should be asking for an official 20mph limit or zone along the length of West Town Lane. In the meantime, it’s been suggested we put up our own unofficial "Twenty is Plenty" and also ""children playing" signs along the lane. Many villages have done this and have reported success in reducing speeding.
Are you a resident of West Town Lane, Woodlands, Meadowlands or Marsh Lane? What do you think about these ideas? Please let me know. If you think this is not a good idea let me know too. Do you have any other suggestions to make? Read more about Twenty is Plenty in different parts of the country and send me a message me on my District Councillor Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/Graeme-Barnell-District-Councillor-476396543103535/
You can also Email me at gbarnell@middevon.gov.uk, Alternatively call me on 01392-851308.
Graeme Barnell
District Councillor
In my view Twenty MPH is more than plenty but there are often cars, farm traffic and delivery vans driving much too fast down the lane.
I think we should be asking for an official 20mph limit or zone along the length of West Town Lane. In the meantime, it’s been suggested we put up our own unofficial "Twenty is Plenty" and also ""children playing" signs along the lane. Many villages have done this and have reported success in reducing speeding.
Are you a resident of West Town Lane, Woodlands, Meadowlands or Marsh Lane? What do you think about these ideas? Please let me know. If you think this is not a good idea let me know too. Do you have any other suggestions to make? Read more about Twenty is Plenty in different parts of the country and send me a message me on my District Councillor Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/Graeme-Barnell-District-Councillor-476396543103535/
You can also Email me at gbarnell@middevon.gov.uk, Alternatively call me on 01392-851308.
Graeme Barnell
District Councillor