Buckfastleigh Neighbourhood report – November 2012

Over the past month there have been 63 incidents reported to us in Buckfastleigh.

 

We have had 11 crimes reported to us from the town which include 3 assaults,  1  case of  harassment, 1 theft from motor vehicle, 1 possession of cannabis, 2 theft and 3 burglaries.

 

Three empty properties were broken into and property stolen which included antiques, cash and jewellery.   There has been other recent offences of theft and burglary in neighbouring areas and as a result we have had extra police patrolling the areas during the hours of darkness.  These local crimes have all been linked and are being investigated by the CID team at Totnes.

 

With regards to the robbery at Dial Motors, which occurred on October, the two juvenile males have been sentenced.  The first male received a 2.5 year sentence at young offenders institute and the other juvenile male got a 24 month detention and training order.

 

6 crimes were reported to us from the Dean Prior area 5 burglaries which appear to be part of a series in the area and 1 assault. 11 incidents were reported to us 6 related to offences on the roads in the area.

 

From the West Buckfastleigh area we have had 0 crimes reported to us.  There were 2 incidents reported to us, one flood related and a broken down vehicle.

 

From Holne we have had 0 crimes reported to us. There were 4 incidents reported to us one related to flooding, neighbour issues, empty canoes and domestic related.

 

Our local area has unfortunately suffered a number of burglaries of either empty properties or shed/garages. Please be vigilant and report any suspicious activities, persons or vehicles to us as soon as possible as this will give us the best opportunity to try and catch the offenders.. Power tools and fishing equipment are targeted in one series and cash, antiques and jewellery in the other series. If anyone has any information please contact us on 101.

 

The town suffered dramatically from the affects of the weather at the start of the month.  The Environmental Agency is running a drop in surgery to assess the extent of the problems and we would urge all that can go to attend this session.  It is being held in the Town Hall, on Thursday 13^thDecember,  between 12pm and 7pm.

Police surgeries will be held at Buckfastleigh Town Hall, the next one being Wednesday 12^th December 2012 at 7.30pm

 

We can be contacted via the central switchboard no. 101 or via e-mail –Teignbridge@devonandcornwall.pnn.police.uk

 

PC 4939 Alison HOOPER,  PCSO 30577  Tamzin CAMPBELL-MOSELEY

 

ASHBURTON NEIGHBOURHOOD REPORT - NOVEMBER 2012

I would like to update you on Policing matters in the town during November.

 

64 incidents were reported, 13 of these concerned the A38 and a further 6 were traffic related incidents in the town itself.

 

13  incidents of anti-social behaviour were reported, including a number of reports of youths still gathering at the bus stop in West Street. We are continuing to take positive action here, frequently moving on youngsters from the bus stop with suitable words of advice and visiting their parents at home. The Youth Offending Team and Social Services are now also involved in dealing with a number of youngsters in the town who do not know how to behave.

 

We will continue to play our part, being visible and trying to disrupt their activities but are becoming increasingly frustrated at the apparent lack of parental control being applied.  The group, who are aged between 11 and 13, are all on the Teignbridge ‘escalation’ process and will soon be at the stage where an acceptable behaviour contract may be considered.  The stage after this is the consideration of an Anti Social Behaviour Order application.  The behaviour of this group is having a detrimental effect on the quality of life of numerous residents in the town and we are committed to addressing this.

 

16 crimes were reported over the past month. They include-

6 offences of theft

2 offences of assault

5 offences of criminal damage

No burglaries were reported.

2 people were also dealt with for possessing cannabis.

 

In Bickington 9 incident reports were made. These mainly related to traffic problems on the A383. No crimes were recorded.

 

In Widecombe 6 incidents were reported  including 2 reports of house alarm activations which proved to be false alarms.1 crime was recorded – an assault near Dartmeet.

 

Please report any suspicious activity or behaviour at the time on the new non-emergency telephone number of 101 – or use 999 in an emergency situation, ie if a crime is being committed.

 

My next Police surgery at the Ashburton Information Centre is from 10-11am on Tuesday 18^thDecember.

 

I can be contacted at Ashburton Police Station via the Central no. 101 or via e-mail –Teignbridge@devonandcornwall.pnn.police.uk

Alternatively the totally confidential Crimestoppers no.0800 555111 can be used to pass information to the Police.

 

                                                            PC 4486 Dudley

 

Darcy's do not disturb moment

It will fit and I will go to the ball

Buckfastleigh Neighbourhood report – October 2012

Over the past month there have been 49 incidents reported to us fromBuckfastleigh.

 

We have had 19 crimes reported to us from the town which include 1 assault, 1 offence of making off without payment,  2 incidents of harassment, 3 criminal damage reports, 4 offences of  theft from motor vehicles,  5 burglary’s and 1 robbery.

 

With regards to the robbery at Dial Motors two juvenile males have appeared at court and admitted their part of it.  They are still both on remand and will be sentenced at Plymouth Crown Court on the 30^th November 2012.  One of the males has asked for 8 other offences to be taken into consideration and these will form part of his sentence when it is passed.

 

2 offences of arson, to a shed and a recycling bin, have been dealt with by way of restorative justice with the offender apologising for their behaviour.  

Overnight on 26^th/27^th October 5 burglaries to sheds and 4 offences of theft from motor vehicles were reported to us from the Plymouth Road and Gipsy Lane area of the town. This type of crime spree is largely unheard of in the town and could be related either a series of crimes that have occurred along the A38 corridor, or may have been committed by a local opportunist criminal.  We  are keeping an open mind and anyone with any  information with regards to these offences please contact  PC Hooper on 101.

 

We have again received numerous reports with regards to motorbikes being ridden in anti-social manner. A colleague from Ashburton was off duty driving through the lanes when he came across 2 local youths who he recognised on a motorcycle.  That evening when he was at work he attended their address and seized the motorcycle and the driver has been reported for various traffic offences.  We will be applying to the court to get it destroyed.

 

No crime was reported to us from the Dean Prior area.  6 incidents were reported to us all related to offences on the roads in the area.

 

From the West Buckfastleigh area we have had 2 crimes reported to us which was a theft of boiler and theft from motor vehicle at Hembury Woods. A male has been interviewed regarding the theft of the boiler and has denied his involvement in this offence. There were 3 incidents reported to us.

 

From Holne we have had 2 crimes reported to us.  1 related to an assault that occurred near River Dart   Country Park and an offence of drunk and disorderly which related to this initial incident. There were 4 incidents reported to us two suspicious vehicles/people, assault and an accident

 

We have again seen an increase in vehicle crime from beauty spots on the moor, an issue that affects all our rural neighbourhoods.  We are still finding people leaving their valuables on show when they go off for a walk which leaves their vehicles vulnerable to any thief.  We have re-vitalised our old Moorwatch initiative, using members of our Force Support Group in both marked and unmarked vehicles patrolling key locations.  We share our intelligence and crime analyst reports with both the Dartmoor Rangers at their fortnightly meetings and with members of the Environmental Team at Teignbridge District Council. 

 

In mid October we had some success in that a sharp eyed member of the public saw 2 people trying the door handles of vehicles parked at Venford Reservoir.  We were able to get out to that location quickly and arrested 2 people who it transpired had driven all the way to this location from Southampton.  Both were well known for committing vehicle offences and, although we were unable to charge them with any offences in relation to this incident, undoubtedly we stopped other offences being committed that day.

 

Police surgeries will be held at Buckfastleigh Town Hall

 

Wednesday 14^th November 2012 at 7.30pm

Wednesday 12^th December 2012 at 7.30pm

 

We can be contacted via the central switchboard no. 101 or via e-mail –Teignbridge@devonandcornwall.pnn.police.uk

 

PC 4939 Alison HOOPER,  PCSO 30577  Tamzin CAMPBELL-MOSELEY

Follow me on Twitter #vogelphilipc

ASHBURTON NEIGHBOURHOOD REPORT - OCTOBER 2012

I would like to update you on Policing matters in the town during October.

 

63 incidents were reported, 12 of these concerned the A38 and a further 8 were traffic related incidents in the town itself.

 

7 incidents of anti-social behaviour were reported, including a number of reports of youths gathering at the bus stop in West Street. We are continuing to take positive action here, frequently moving on youngsters from the bus stop with suitable words of advice. The District Councils ASB camera has been installed in the town during the month and monitored the activities of those at this location and has helped us identify certain individuals.  We have also brought other members of the local team into the team to concentrate patrols on this area, and North Street during the evening.  It has also become apparent that some of those who initially received letters in relation to their behaviour did not fully take my advice and have come to our notice again.  They will now be sent a second letter, which is one step away from them having to sign an acceptable behaviour contract.  We have also identified another individual who does not even live in the town, yet seems to be causing us issues.  His parents will be advised to keep him in his home town where he can cause as much trouble as he likes..!!!

 

We will continue to move the groups on when they congregate, though this will not solely resolve the issue.  We have been in contact with the council to see if a grill across the front of the bus shelter could be installed, that could be closed in the evening after the last bus has been through the town.  A while ago this piece of equipment resolved a similar problem that we had in Buckfastleigh.

 

15 crimes were reported. They include-

3 offences of theft

3 offences of assault

3 offences of criminal damage

 

 

In Bickington 4 incident reports were made. 2 of these related to traffic problems on the A383. No crimes were recorded.

 

In Widecombe 3 incidents were reported  including a report of males behaving suspiciously, close to a badger set on 14^th October. No crimes were recorded in the village.

 

Halloween passed off peacefully. Many great costumes were on show and luckily the foul weather passed through before the evenings events really got going.

 

Please report any suspicious activity or behaviour at the time on the new non-emergency telephone number of 101 – or use 999 in an emergency situation, ie if a crime is being committed.

 

We have again seen an increase in vehicle crime from beauty spots on the moor, an issue that affects all our rural neighbourhoods.  We are still finding people leaving their valuables on show when they go off for a walk which leaves their vehicles vulnerable to any thief.  We have re-vitalised our old Moorwatch initiative, using members of our Force Support Group in both marked and unmarked vehicles patrolling key locations.  We share our intelligence and crime analyst reports with both the Dartmoor Rangers at their fortnightly meetings and with members of the Environmental Team at Teignbridge District Council. 

 

In mid October we had some success in that a sharp eyed member of the public saw 2 people trying the door handles of vehicles parked at Venford Reservoir.  We were able to get out to that location quickly and arrested 2 people who it transpired had driven all the way to this location from Southampton.  Both were well known for committing vehicle offences and, although we were unable to charge them with any offences in relation to this incident, undoubtedly we stopped other offences being committed that day.

 

Our 2 new PCSO’s, Ben Cattrall and Carolyn Studd, are now with us having finished their period of tutoring.  They will be out and about across the area.

 

My next Police surgery at the Ashburton Information Centre is from 10-11am on Tuesday 20^th November.

 

I can be contacted at Ashburton Police Station via the Central no. 101 or via e-mail – Teignbridge@devonandcornwall.pnn.police.uk

 

Alternatively the totally confidential Crimestoppers no.0800 555111 can be used to pass information to the Police.

 

 

                                                            PC 4486 Dudley

 

 

Teignbridge landlords to benefit from one-day training course - 13.11.12

Believe this is very important for long term landlords, accidental landlords and their tenants, with private landlords soon to account for the majority of the housing rental market. 

http://www.teignbridge.gov.uk/index.aspx?articleid=16812

Follow me on Twitter #vogelphilipc

Darcy's Diary 5

Helped with the gardening to-day sorted the flower pots out.

Darcy's Diary 4

Sock's aren't just for wearing they can be useful outdoor fashion accessories.

Dartmoor Search & Rescue Team (Ashburton)

There are many in our communities who believe that they would like to put something back into there community or volunteer for a service or charity etc. For whatever that reason, one such group of volunteers provides for those who live and work and take recreation on Dartmoor a valuable if not crucial volunteer service - Dartmoor Search and Rescue Team (Ashburton). There many such Teams up and down the country, and I for one have always been grateful as a hill/fell walker, and have in the back of my mind the knowledge that if any accident were to occur it would probably be one of the S&R Teams that would sort it.  it takes commitment, time and a great deal of family understanding, and not a little personal risk to work in some of the more isolated parts of both our Moor and the hills and fells of this nation.

Therefore it was a great pleasure as President of the Rotary Club of Ashburton Buckfastleigh that I presented a cheque to DSRT(Ashburton) for £2k this week. The monies raised came from the generous donations and purchases of pictures at our annual ARTEX exhibition held by kind permission of the Abbot and Community of Buckfast Abbey.

I can do no better that to give the link to their web site:

http://www.dsrtashburton.org.uk/rotarynov12/

Follow me on Twitter @vogelphilipc

Darcy's Diary 3

What a growing dog needs is a half hour 'Puppy Nap' then I'm ready for action:)

Darcy's Diary 2

Big day yesterday. The man took me to the Vets and lots of people admired me. But a very nice man gave me munchies and told me I was beautiful and well, he can give me injections any time!!!!!

Teignbridge free car parking in car parks on Sundays

Free Sunday parking has been re-introduced in Teignmouth and Dawlish car parks for the winter months.

Both resorts have joined the successful scheme which sees all 35 of Teignbridge District Council's car parks free of any charges on a Sunday.

http://www.teignbridge.gov.uk/index.aspx?articleid=16788

Dear Diary 1

Dear Diary I'm Darcy aged 9 weeks a Springer x Norfolk Terrier and I've decided to write a diary.

I discovered two things today - the first if I wee on the floor they come to wipe it up with a cloth - and if I grab the other end we can have a grand game of tug of war.

I actually followed the man outside this afternoon - wow there is a world beyond the window its not just a picture.

#Rotary #ReDistricting

If dear reader you don't understand the title of this Blog, then you are in good company, because I do not either.

Having said that, there may well be Rotarians out there beyond Blog Land who know exactly what it means and the law of unintentional consequences that may well arise from this process. The loss of more members.

Having returned from District 1170 District Council, I am still none the wiser as to what this idea of redistricting is designed to achieve - especially when as I understand there is at least one motion before the forthcoming Council of Legislation that talks about first class travel for life.....

If I have understood the process, Rotary is expanding in some parts of the world and contracting in others, and this has led to an idea regarding rationalisation of districts so that the golden number of 532 Districts world wide - the number currently - remains for financial reasons.

So in the RIBI area there is a proposal to reduce the number of districts from 29 to 22 (sorry if figures, indeed the spirit of what I write is not exactly correct - that just goes to show if I'm confused it can't be simple enough to understand). 

Now it seems the cut is based on districts and the number of clubs as this relates to membership - RIBI lost net 4 last count. So someone has come up with the idea that Devon should be merged with Cornwall (ok that was the case a couple of decades ago) but that a number of the Devon Clubs should go to other adjacent districts being formed and so on and so on doubtless up and down the country. Surely those districts that do not make the cut should be redistributed to those adjacent districts that do make the cut - job done:)

Except..... someone somewhere seems to have forgotten that as we are always being told Rotary is the Club upwards and that if one District does not want to do this, it doesn't happen. Further with the recently enacted Localism Bill the whole thought process in this country is changing - and tailoring solutions to local problems is the new 'one size fits all'.

It also seems somewhat random to down size to 22 districts, why not 10 etc. But, and here's the nub of the problem, to date as a humble Club President I've seen no financial justification for any of this in the papers I've been sent, and its my subscription, like all members, that pays for all this, or not as the case may be....

Follow me on Twitter @vogelphilipc

Ashburton Buckfastleigh the past the future

Attended two events within a couple of days this week end and week, which go to show that the past influences the today, and today is tomorrow's history.

On Saturday Buckfastleigh Town Council and residents of the Town celebrated the 125th anniversary of the Town Hall. Part of the celebration was the Town's retired GP Dr Peter Edwards reminding us of the history of the Town and of those who so generously gave by public subscription monies for the Town Hall and the different opportunities it offered then and now.

The Town Council gave 'Good Citizen and Community' Awards to individuals and Community Organisations that make a difference to the daily lives of residents. History was made and witnessed by all present, not just because a time capsule  was contributed by the pupils of Buckfastleigh Primary School and was buried in the Community Garden, but because the Town Council awarded the first 'Freedom of the Town' honoured to Sandra Coleman. I for one look forward to Sandra driving her flock of sheep through the Town:)

Yesterday I attended a public meeting called by the Ashburton Buckfastleigh Community Hospital League of Friends to listen the CEO of the Torbay NHS Trust talk about the forthcoming review of health facilities and Community Hospitals.

As President of the League of Friends Dr Edwards gave a resume of the 120 year history of our Community Hospital, noting the public subscription base of the hospital, and again making reference to the fact that there are still families in both communities of those who orginally subscribed.

 I would urge all residents to read and respond and consider the review document in due course, and make no comment on its content until I like others have read it.

What was, I feel, most striking was the passion with which residents from both Ashburton and Buckfastleigh spoke about their hospital - not the hospital or your hospital. (And I have to say, every time I've fetched up there the staff & our GPs could not do enough for me or my family). My experience not withstanding, both communities may just be names on a map, they may just be between Exeter and Plymouth on the A38 Expressway, they only be small moorland market towns on the outside, but on the inside they are communities of warmth, strength and character, where the past meets the present for the future.

Follow me on Twitter @vogelphilipc

South Devon UTC Newton Abbot - Find out More

Find out about the proposed South Devon University Technical College for students 14-19years at Coombeshead on Thursday 18th Oct 7.30 -9pm. Check it out at
http://emps.exeter.ac.uk/utc/

Christow Community Land Trust Press Release

Layne Fields Housing Development – Christow – Public Meeting

• A public consultation meeting was held at the Teign Valley Community Hall on Wednesday 19 September 2012 to ask local residents to comment on the draft design and layout of the Layne Fields housing development, which will provide affordable homes for families and elderly and disabled people in Christow. There was also a presentation on Christow Community Land Trust (CCLT) explaining its role as a not-for-profit society with the power to hold land and property for the long-term benefit of the community. Those attending were invited to become members, thereby encouraging wider public involvement in CCLT and its current and any future projects.
• There were 29 local people at the meeting plus 8 members of the CCLT Steering Group. The latter are all Christow residents, representing a range of skills and experience; some are Parish Councillors, providing a link with the wider village community, although they act as independent persons on the CLT. They were joined by the Steering Group’s professional advisers and project partners from Somerset, Devon and Dorset Community Land Trust Project, Teign Housing, the Regeneration Partnership, Mitchell’s Architects and the Gates Partnership. Philip Vogel, a Teignbridge District Councillor and a member of Dartmoor National Park Authority was also present.
• Before the meeting began, there was an opportunity to see representations of the scheme on displays in the Hall lobby, enabling people to see what the scheme will look like through the use of plans and very realistic images.
• Recent surveys have highlighted a need for affordable, rented housing in the village. It was confirmed that, in accordance with legally binding planning conditions, all the homes would firstly be offered to people with a Christow connection and, if not taken up, to those from local villages before being offered further afield.
• There was a great deal of interest in and discussion about the project and, on a show of hands, those attending the meeting unanimously supported the proposals. Similarly there was unanimous support for the application of Passivhaus principles in the development i.e. extra low energy cost, taking very little power to heat the houses and making them efficient to live in. 
• In terms of the layout and design, there was overwhelming support for the planned terraces as they are essential for energy saving at the highest level. There were discussions on the treatment of elevations with a consensus that people liked the render, slate roofs and stone work to the porches.  
• The meeting therefore endorsed the development and the site’s draft layout and design and this will provide the basis for discussions between Teign Housing, Christow CLT and Dartmoor National Park Authority prior to a formal planning application.
• There was also some interest in applying to join CCLT and membership forms were given out at the close of the meeting. CCLT will hold a Special General Meeting later in the year, when more information will be available and members will be invited to elect a Board of Directors, ensuring public accountability. 

If you are interested in applying for membership

 please contact Simon Lee on 01647 252116

 don’t hesitate – we want to hear from you!

Christow Community Land Trust Steering Group: Tom Archer; Sarah Cann; Tony Cook; Briony Falch; Simon Lee; Mike Rosenbloom; Adrian Sargood; Pamela Woods

Teignbridge Residents - Cosy Devon Scheme

Once this offer is gone its gone

An offer that might sound too good to be true! Teignbridge residents have until the end of November to benefit from completely free cavity wall and loft insulation through the Cosy Devon scheme. There’s even the chance to get your hands on a no-strings cheque for £100! The £100 offer only applies to those who receive Child Tax Credit and have an annual household income of less than £16,190, or anybody who is claiming Pension Credit. However, free insulation is available to all.

To take advantage of this special offer, residents should telephone J&J Crump & Son Ltd on freephone 0800 917 6963. They will arrange a free no obligation survey to make sure their homes are suitable, and if the householder wants to proceed they will book a date for installation.

The photo is of Cllr Kevin Lake (left) and Cllr Philip Vogel (right) with insulation material.

Buckfastleigh Neighbourhood report – September 2012

Over the past month there have been 35 incidents reported to us from Buckfastleigh.

We have had 17 crimes reported to us from the town which include 3 assaults, 1 crime for the possession drugs,  1 harassment offence, 3 criminal damages, 3 arson offences, 4 theft and 1 possession of offensive weapon.  One male arrested for harassment which was domestic related.

On  Sunday 9^th September police received a report of fire at the allotments on Fore Street Buckfastleigh. One male was arrested at the scene for arson, possession of offensive weapon and possession of drugs.  The fire was quickly contained and the only injuries were smoke inhalation to the detained person. He is on police bail pending further enquiries.

On Monday 1^st October at Dial Motors Garage police received a report of a robbery. 2 local males were arrested for this offence a short distance from the scene and shortly after the commission of the crime by officers responding to the call.   Whilst they were detained searches were conducted in the area by one of our dog units, supported by the helicopter and numerous other units, some of whom had come up from Ivybridge.  Local CID officers also attended the scene to begin an investigation. As a result of all the enquiries made on the night, and the result of further searches conducted the next morning one of the males has been charged with the offence of robbery whilst the other has been bailed to allow us progress further enquiries.  The charged male appeared in court on Wednesday 3^rd October and was remanded in custody pending further court appearances. The actions of the cashier cannot be praised enough and almost certainly assisted in the apprehension of those involved. This sort of offence, thankfully, is a rare occurrence across South Devon and more importantly in places like Buckfastleigh.

No crimes were reported to us from the Dean Prior area. 4 incidents were reported to us 3 related to the A38 and 1 was a domestic incident.

From the West Buckfastleigh area we have had 1 crime reported to us which was a theft of a leisure battery. There were 8 incidents reported to us of which 3 related to a possible rave which turned out to be a private party., 2 reports related to suspicious persons/vehicles, whilst 1 was in relation to an allegation of dangerous

From Holne we have had 3 crimes reported to us which include the theft of diesel from a tank and 2 thefts from vehicles in Holne and Vennford, where cash and cards were stolen. We have seen an increase in the number of vehicles being broken into when parked at local beauty spots.  We have increased patrols in the areas and have deployed one of our vehicles that is equipped with a multitude of cameras to catch the offenders in the act of breaking into a car.  Please take time to secure your valuables away from prying eyes when you leave your car and also take steps to ensure that you do not let anyone see you doing this.

Over the next month we will be out and about speaking to local resident s to identify those issues that currently affect people’s quality of life in the area.  From this process we will set our priorities for the next few months, with the updates going on our neighbourhood webpage.

We can be contacted via the central switchboard no. 101 or via e-mail –Teignbridge@devonandcornwall.pnn.police.uk

Police Sgt Ian Stevens, PC 4939 Alison HOOPER,  PCSO 30577  Tamzin CAMPBELL-MOSELEY

Incident at Dial Motors - Buckfastleigh

Thought residents of Buckfastleigh would like to read this extract from a statement about the incident at Dial Motors on Monday nigh I received from the local Police:

...'2 local males were arrested for this offence a short distance from the scene and shortly after the commission of the crime by officers responding to the call. Whilst they were detained searches were conducted in the area by one

 of our dog units, supported by the helicopter and numerous other units, some of whom had come up from Ivybridge. Local CID officers also attended the scene to begin an investigation.

As a result of all the enquiries made on the night, and the result of further searches conducted the next morning one of the males has been charged with the offence of robbery whilst the other has been bailed to allow us progress further enquiries. The charged male appeared in court on Wednesday 3rd October and was remanded in custody pending further court appearances.

The actions of the cashier cannot be praised enough and almost certainly assisted in the apprehension of those involved.

This sort of offence, thankfully, is a rare occurrence across South Devon and more importantly in places like Buckfastleigh. It is for this reason that I have dropped you this note, just to brief you in regards to our response and ultimate result...'

A Randomtorial

A random thought or two on The Draft Submission Plan Teignbridge 2013-2033 document that will shortly be going out for 6 weeks final consultation. The responses will be collated and submitted without further discussion to Department of Communities and Local Government (DCLG) for the Minister to consider, and forwarding to the Planning Inspectorate in Bristol for Examination.

Policies contained within the Draft Submission are considered to carry some weight when Members consider planning applications, and as Examination approaches the weight to be attached to policies proportionally increases until a final decision is made on the status and policies contained within the document.

Teignbridge’s last Local Plan was delivered in 1996, and with the finding of the 2007 plan as Unsound there has been an interregnum in which there has been, in many peoples’ minds, piece-meal development and planning by appeal.

Plan Teignbridge 2013 - 2033 is about addressing this, and having policies that are equitable and sustainable across the District. The consequence of this is a change in the way applications will now be dealt with, which will of necessity affect Members, Officers and Applicants.

Members have, through the Plan, given a clear view as to where and what is acceptable in planning terms, and how they wish to see Teignbridge develop across all aspects of life in the District. It is a draft submission, and amendments, alterations, additions and removals may still occur through the Examination process - that’s the democratic way. 

There has been more extensive consultation that ever before, and at the end of the day, it is a District wide plan, about meeting the hopes and aspirations of residents now and for the future  in a manner that is equitable and benefits all residents across the District.

South Devon University Technical College Newton Abbot

The BID for the South Devon University Technical College (14-19) to be located in Newton Abbot was launched on Friday 28th September.

Details of what a UTC is, the BID & events for parents and pupils can be found by following this link or contacting South Devon College or Exeter University:

http://emps.exeter.ac.uk/utc/

Draft Submission Plan Teignbridge 2013-2033 :)

Long time no write - the various committee stages of Plan Teignbridge have taken I estimated some 20hrs of time in Chamber and umpteen out. But it can now go forward to a period of 6 weeks consultation before being sent to the Planning at Bristol for their consideration, and Examination.

The debates in Committee enabled all Councillors to participate, although the number of absent Councillors at the Special Council Meeting to finalise the Plan was, I have to say, disappointing for such an important document.

The full amended Plan details will be appearing on the TDC website, and in case readers have difficulty downloading, here is the press release:

http://www.teignbridge.gov.uk/index.aspx?articleid=16658

Teignbridge's 20 year vision for homes, employment, leisure, infrastructure and the environment has been approved by a special meeting of the Full Council on Friday 21 September.

The decision followed seven hours of debate and amendment of the Plan, with Teignbridge's councillors considering the draft and changes proposed by previous committee meetings earlier in the month.

It signals a hugely important step forward in the council's plan making process, and means that Teignbridge will now be able to submit Plan Teignbridge for a full inspection by an independent Planning Inspector working on behalf of the Government.

It's anticipated that this will happen in Summer 2013, with the council hoping to adopt the completed Plan by the end of 2013 if the Inspector finds it 'sound'.  Once adopted it will provide a comprehensive planning blueprint for Teignbridge between 2013 - 2033, directing where new things go and offering much better protection for places the council does not earmark for development.

Before the inspection there will be a fresh public consultation where people can formally support or object to aspects of the Plan.  The purpose of the consultation is for any group, individual, or organisation to make comments on the 'soundness' of the Plan, and these will be submitted to the Government and Inspector along with the Plan.

Full details of this consultation will be announced by Teignbridge in coming months, and people can stay up to date at www.teignbridge.gov.uk/planteignbridge,www.facebook.com/planteignbridge or on Twitter @PlanTeignbridge.

Cllr Philip Vogel, Teignbridge Executive Spokesperson for Housing and Planning said:

"Much like a tapestry, the complex strands of many policies in Plan Teignbridge weave together to create a comprehensive picture of Teignbridge's economic and housing future.

"This isn't paint by numbers, it's about a detailed balancing of needs and setting the foundation for the next twenty years and beyond for housing, economy and environment.  This includes the mix of retail and rental homes, including custom-build; encouraging employers into the District; promoting cycle and green and leisure facilities; promoting carbon reduction and environmental issues; all the while ensuring that the infrastructure and community benefits are available for the whole community of Teignbridge.

"Plan Teignbridge 2012-2033 is a vision for future generations, not just our immediate future.  The Inspector will welcome local views on the final draft, and we'll be letting people know how they can have their say soon."

33 recommendations were put to the Full Council, including those made by the council's Executive and its Overview and Scrutiny (O&S) Committee, both of which debated the plan earlier in September.  The report to the council noted all of these recommendations, including details of where the Executive and O&S agreed and disagreed.  Members were also able to put forward their own suggestions for changes, which were voted on as the Council worked policy by policy through the 127 page document.

Among the changes made to the Plan were a reduced allocation of 250 homes (down from 280) for Penn's Mount, Kingsteignton; the removal of part of Osbourne Street Car Park in Newton Abbot as a site for 40 homes; amendments in Dawlish to reduce the size of a sites at the south of Shutterton Lane and west of Southdowns Road and concentrate housing on a site north west of Secmaton Lane; the removal of the Bradley Bends site in Bovey Tracey; a new policy relating to Ashburton and Buckfastleigh, where Teignbridge cooperates with planning authority Dartmoor National Park; and a five hectare additional buffer of farmland by Seale Hayne farm.

A debate was also had on the merits of requiring affordable housing from builders, set against the need for them to be able to afford contributions to local infrastructure such as roads, parks, schools, leisure centres and more.  This resulted in the plan requiring:

• 20% affordable housing for developments in Newton Abbot and Kingsteignton
• 25% affordable housing in Dawlish, Teignmouth and the South West of Exeter
• 30% affordable housing elsewhere.

These requirements would apply to all developments of five homes or more homes, with developers also paying a Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) on full market-rate homes, helping to fund local infrastructure.  The council's plan for CIL is being created separately, and will be subject to a separate consultation and inspection.

The Full Council also agreed a new monitoring framework to check progress against the Plan's goals and a five yearly review of the Plan to take account of progress and new information.  A note was also added, making clear that the agreed level of affordable housing could still not fully meet local need as that would require rates of 40%, but that the rates reflect what the council considered realistic and practical to deliver.  These rates will be part of the five yearly review.

A full list of changes to the Plan will be available online through a link atwww.teignbridge.gov.uk/planteignbridge within two weeks.  A final version of the Plan which reflects these changes will be written and published in coming months.

ASHBURTON NEIGHBOURHOOD REPORT - AUGUST 2012

Apology for the lack of Police reports from the local team over the past couple of months.  It has been a very busy summer for us, what with the Olympics and local incidents of flooding.  Hopefully now that the dust has settled we will get back to updating you monthly what we are doing.

 

Over the past month 81 incidents were reported to us from Ashburton of which 15 of these concerned the A38 and a further 8 were traffic related incidents in the town itself.

 

7 incidents of anti-social behaviour were reported, 5 of these were complaints of youths gathering at the bus stop in West Street in the evenings causing distress to neighbours and passersby. Matters are in hand to prevent further ASB here. We have increased patrols in the area and have requested extra support from colleagues from Newton Abbot. 2 local youngsters were taken home to parents when one incident was witnessed by local officers and a crime is being investigated whereby damage was caused to the bus stop roof. We have been speaking to the Town Council to see if steps can be taken to secure the bus stop in the evenings.  We would urge local residents to call us when the issues are occurring so that we can respond promptly.

 

We received 4 calls to the swimming pool when youngsters had gained entry after it was closed.  This is an annual issue, which hopefully will now be resolved now the summer has finished and the evening is getting darker.

 

15 crimes were reported to us from the town.  They include

1 offence of burglary which was to the Bank Youth Project, where a 16yr old male was arrested. We have had 6 offences of theft reported to us, including 3 crimes of shoplifting were the offenders have been dealt with.  A local male was also arrested for being drunk and disorderly in the town centre, after refusing to leave a shop having already been removed from the same store ½ hour before hand.

 

In Bickington 5 incident were reported to us, including 1 where a spaniel dog was reported chasing sheep – the dog owner has been dealt with for this.  2 crimes were recorded from the area. A male was also cautioned for possessing a shotgun without a licence following a warrant at an address.

 

In Widecombe 5 incidents were reported, including a barn fire at Ponsworthy on 2^nd August and an injured walker needing help on Mel Tor on 6^th August. No crimes were recorded.

 

Please report any suspicious activity or behaviour at the time on the new non-emergency telephone number of 101 – or use 999 in an emergency situation, ie if a crime is being committed.

 

 

My next Police surgery at the Ashburton Information Centre is from 10-11am on Wednesday 26^thSeptember.

 

 

I can be contacted at Ashburton Police Station via the Central no. 101 or via e-mail –Teignbridge@devonandcornwall.pnn.police.uk

 

Alternatively the totally confidential Crimestoppers no.0800 555111 can be used to pass information to the Police.

 

 

                                                            PC 4486 Dudley

 

Buckfastleigh Neighbourhood report – August 2012

Apology for the lack of Police reports from the local team over the past couple of months.  It has been a very busy summer for us, what with the Olympics and local incidents of flooding.  Hopefully now that the dust has settled we will get back to updating you monthly what we are doing.

Over the past month there have been 68 incidents reported to us from the Buckfastleigh area.  9 of these related to domestic incidents at the same address.  As a result of these incidents a male has been arrested and given bail conditions that hopefully will prevent further issues. 4 incidents relate to calls about local youths riding a mini moto or quad bike in the Gipsy Lane area.  We have increased patrols in this area in order to catch those involved with a few to seizing the vehicles and dealing with those riders for any traffic offences that are detected.  Youngsters often find riding these vehicles fun, and they probably are as long as they are used in the proper environment.  Insurance cover is needed when they are used on the road to protect other road users in the event of accidents and if we find a rider without insurance they may find themselves liable to a hefty fine and 6 penalty points being put on their licence.  This may in turn affect their ability to obtain insurance in the future.

We have had 14 crimes reported to us from the town which include 4 assaults, 1 offence of possession drugs, 2 offences under the communications act (often linked to either making malicious calls or sending malicious messages), 1 burglary, 4 theft offences.  The burglary offence was to a business unit where entry was gained by forcing the door and cash taken. 2 of the theft offences related to Charity boxes being stolen from The Mill Shop and the South Devon Railway Station.

One male was arrested for dangerous driving after a police officer witnessed him driving through a no entry sign and wrong way along one way street. On stopping the vehicle he was subsequently found to be over the alcohol limit and was also arrested for this offence.

1 crime was reported to us from the Dean Prior area which relates to credit card fraud offence. 5 incidents were reported to us all related to the A38.

From the West Buckfastleigh area we have had no crimes reported to us. There were 4 incidents reported to us, 1 of which related to four males seen riding motorbikes in private fields and on the road with no helmets.  2 related to a domestic and incident between neighbours whilst another related to a male who had got stuck in some mud.

Holne was crime free. 3 incidents were reported, one relating to  card cloning and two relating to people who had got themselves lost, and needed our help to find them..

We can be contacted via the central switchboard no. 101 or via e-mail –Teignbridge@devonandcornwall.pnn.police.uk

PC 4939 Alison HOOPER,  PCSO 30577  Tamzin CAMPBELL-MOSELEY

 

Holidays Are Over - Its Official

Holidays over its back to the grindstone at Teignbridge. The Draft Submission Local Plan Teignbridge 2013-2033 is up and running, with the document being issued in August at http://www.teignbridge.gov.uk/index.aspx?articleid=1626 

Overview & Scrutiny have had the opportunity to go through the document and made recommendations  to the Executive due 13th September 2012 http://www.teignbridge.gov.uk/index.aspx?ArticleID=16630

The Executive will go through the document and make recommendations to Full Council due Friday 21st September. 

Plan Teignbridge 2013 -2033 is the document that captures and encapsulates the aspirations for houses, jobs and green infrastructure for the next generation and beyond.

Pictures from Godolphin National Trust Cornwall

Pictures from a visit to Godolphin an NT property in Cornwall. The garden being an example of C13th lay out. The view from the top of Godolphin hill is amazing across the Cornish coast.

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Teddy Bear Picnic Photos

It might have rained a little at Venford yesterday but it didn't stop all the little Teddies and their both junior & senior 'minders' enjoying a lovely day out. And the light breeze enabled the bubbles to show us the way to the picnic basket full of goodies.


Teddies made teddy masks, had a treasure hunt, blew bubbles made a giant teddy called 'Darty' and had a sing song.


Thanks to Rangers Bill & Ella and all the adults who came along and made it all possible.


It is hoped to make this an annual event.

Pictures from an Art Exhibition Preview at Buckfast Abbey

The 13th Annual Rotary Club of Ashburton Buckfastleigh Art Exhibition held at Buckfast Abbey, by kind permission of the Abbot,  runs from today 2nd August until 13th August. 

Exhibits, housed in the Mediaeval Guest House located in the grounds of the Abbey,include paintings, photos, cards and prints are to raise funds for Childrens' Hospice South West, Shelterbox and Dartmoor Search and Rescue (Ashburton) and other Rotary charities.

The centre-piece of the exhibition is the raffle prize a picture of a Devon Fruit Clipper painted by Brixham artist John Turk.

The 'Chain Gang' Cllr. Peter Bromell( Vice-Chairman Teignbridge District) Council, Rtn. Philip Darby (Portreeve of Ashburton), John Turk (Artist and donator of the raffle prize), Rtn. Philip Vogel (President Rotary Club of Ashburton Buckfastleigh), Cllr. Denise Rudgeley (Mayor of Buckfastleigh), Rtn. District Governor Graham Smith.

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#vogelphilipc

Teddy Bears Picnic in Dartmoor National Park 2012

The second annual Teddy Bears' picnic organised by Dartmoor National Park Rangers takes place this Thursday 2nd August 11.30am to 1pm at Venford.

Details and whom to contact on the flyer reproduced below:)

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Twitter  #vogelphilipc

Rotary Club of Ashburton Buckfastleigh Artex 2012

The Rotary Club of Ashburton Buckfastleigh 13th annual Art Exhibition - ARTEX - is again being held by kind permission of the Abbot at Buckfast Abbey.

Thursday 2nd August - Monday 13th August

Again the exhibits are in the splendour of the Mediaeval Guest Hall, and set in the beautiful gardens of the Abbey.

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With AnneMarie Morris MP visiting ODE True Food Cafe Shaldon

Joined 'Fiesty' MP for Newton Abbot Constituency AnneMarie Morris today at ODE True Food Cafe Shaldon, Tim Bougard's latest catering venture in Shaldon. It is an eco sustainable venture with views over Teignmouth. Thanks for the welcome guys.

New Video Highlights Teignmouth And Shaldon's 'Moment To Shine' (published 18.07.12)

Teignbridge District Council press release which includes a video of MUSE running with the Olympic Torch

http://www.teignbridge.gov.uk/index.aspx?articleid=16243

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P3OprKTvc-s&feature=player_embedded

Closure Update Buckfastleigh Post Office Raid

I reproduce below a copy of a letter I have received as a Ward Member for Ashburton Buckfastleigh from the Post Office regarding the temporary closure of Buckfastleigh Post Office following the raid on the building. Sorry for the poor quality. Please pass on details to those Members of the Community who do use the internet.  Thanks.

Rotary Artex Exhibition August 2012 Buckfast Abbey

The Rotary Club of Ashburton Buckfastleigh is holding its 13th annual Art Exhibition - by kind permission of the Abbot - at Buckfast Abbey between Thursday 2nd August and Monday 13th August 2012.

If you are a local resident or visitor come along and support us - even buy that special picture.

for updates, news, views and general random thoughts follow me on Twitter at #vogelphilipc