RESIDENTS and business operators in the Newton Abbot area are being asked to comment further on a revised plan to help improve the quality of life in the coming decade.

The latest draft of the Newton Abbot and District Community Plan 2022-2033 has been published by the Town Council (NATC) ahead of its likely adoption this November.

But before signing off the final version, officers are wanting to ensure they’ve fairly represented public comments made earlier this year.

‘Our last District Community Plan contained big ticket items like the new museum and community hub we developed at Newton’s Place,’ said Town Clerk Phil Rowe.

‘This time people have asked for much less specific schemes such as making the town greener and tidier, improving our cultural facilities and recovering from the pandemic.

‘I think this is because we asked very open questions in our consultations, rather than seek responses to particular proposals.

‘Once the Plan is adopted it will provide a focus for the Town Council’s activities so we want to double check that we listened carefully and responded appropriately.’

Much of the project has been coordinated by NATC Outreach Worker Kate Green and Emily Farrell of the Newton Abbot Community Interest Company, the group which operates facilities such as The Courtenay Centre and The Buckland Centre.

Emily said: ‘Many comments have been prompted by issues such as the town’s growing population and need for better facilities.

‘While controlling the number of new homes is outside the Town Council’s control, we can represent residents by expressing their feelings in the District Community Plan.’

‘Another hot topic has been the future of the Alex Theatre, owned by Teignbridge District Council.

‘I believe we’ve captured people’s thoughts on this and other matters and what we publish in the Plan will be evidence that more senior authorities will, at least, need to respect.’

Kate added: ‘Newton Abbot Town Council will always champion residents and businesses so please, take one more look at our draft Plan and speak up before the September 18 deadline.’

The draft, without illustrations and yet to be proofread, can be viewed at https://www.newtonabbot-tc.gov.uk/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2022/07/NATC-Community-Plan-Review-Proof2.pdf.