People have flocked to Teignmouth's regeneration offices in Northumberland Place to view Teignbridge Council's proposed plans to redevelop The Den, Teignmouth, this week. During a three-day public consultation, residents gave their views on whether they'd like to see an adventure golf course, street theatre arena or multi-use games area built in place of the now defunct Spirit of Teignmouth Visitor Centre. They also had their say on where they think a skateboard park should be built in the town. 'With regards to the Spirit of Teignmouth site there hasn't been any controversial comments,' said Graham Walker, head of economic development at Teignbridge Council. 'People seem to want to see the Spirit of Teignmouth site developed as soon as possible and we hope to get the area done by May. 'Some have been asking questions about the multi-use games area and whether there would be tennis courts available and also how the wall would look around the area. 'As for the skateboard park, there have been a few more concerns about that with regards to noise and security and nearby housing. 'We are hoping some young people will come in as we need their views,' he said before the end of the consultation.' Last week, Teignmouth mayor, Cllr Geoff Bladon criticised the council for the lack of notice it gave the public about the consultation exercise. However, in support of the council, Mr Walker stated this week that letters about the consultation had been dropped into properties on the seafront and the event had been advertised in the local media. Residents gave mixed reactions. 'The landscape area around the golf course looks very attractive and it would certainly encourage the whole family to come along to Teignmouth,' said Gaynor Blackburn, a Teignmouth resident who lives near the proposed development site. 'There were always people playing on the old golf course on the sea front, and that wasn't anything special. This looks great and would attract people. 'I believe out of the street theatre and multi-use games area, the games area is what is needed. I also think the multi- games area would lend itself well to the nearby play park. 'I really don't think street theatre is essential as the Den could be used for this type of activity.' Roy Ripley, from Shaldon, agreed, and said: 'I don't think this is the right place for street theatre. If people want to see street entertainment they already can in the Triangle in Teignmouth. 'The Spirit of Teignmouth has been a headache all the way through so this is positive for the town.' Teignmouth resident Edward Bush, who has done a study into what youngsters want from a skateboard park, was disappointed by the consultation. 'How can people make a decision on what site they'd like to see the skateboard park when there are no 3D graphics available so people can get an idea of the facilities available. All there is is a map picking out the various skateboard park site options. 'The youngsters need a site where they can develop their skills and the park needs to be challenging and it needs to be professional like in Hayle, Cornwall. 'As for the site where the Spirit of Teignmouth Centre is situated I quite like the idea of having a street theatre. It would give more of an outlet for youth performers and schools. It could really be a great contemporary arts stage.' Town councillor Chris Whitlock also was pleased with what he saw. 'It's an exciting time for Teignmouth,' he said. 'We need to attract people to the town and I think these proposed developments will help. 'What I'd really like to see is an open-air ice rink where the paddling pool used to be. 'In the summer it could be used as a roller blading area.'
