The Diocese of Exeter has confirmed the next steps for The Newhay in Dawlish, as it seeks a new occupier following Teignbridge District Council's decision not to renew its lease.

Several options for the future occupation of the land were outlined by the Diocese in a meeting with Dawlish Town Council last December and subsequently provided a written summary in January 2026.

However, as no proposal has been agreed, the Diocese has now confirmed that the next step is to openly market the land for sale or lease in accordance with its legal and charitable obligations and the statutory procedures associated with its designation as an Asset of Community Value.

The marketing process will provide an opportunity for interested parties, including local authorities, community organisations and private purchasers, to put forward proposals.

Should an eligible community group wish to pursue an acquisition, the Asset of Community Value regime provides a mechanism to seek a moratorium period in accordance with the legislation.

The Venerable Andrew Beane, Archdeacon of Exeter, said: "The Newhay is glebe land, which is governed by ecclesiastical (Church) law. The land is held for the purpose of contributing to the mission and ministry costs of the Diocese and, in particular, paying the stipends of parish priests. The Diocese, which is a charity with limited resources, is not in a position to operate a public space of this nature.

“It is a valued green space in Dawlish, and we are keen that it continues to benefit the local community and wildlife. However, the Diocese is obliged under ecclesiastical law to manage the land for best value and cannot dispose of the land (through lease or sale) for less than open market value. Should the community wish to bid, they can officially apply for a six-month moratorium to give time to raise funds and submit an offer.

“Equally, we would very much welcome an approach from either the Town Council or District Council to take a further lease of the land should they decide this is desirable.”