MORE trees and public art, stronger cultural and heritage, and better travel and parking options are among the priorities for Newton Abbot.

The plans are being taken forward after Teignbridge Council members approved the next stage of proposals to improve the town centre.

Members of the Executive Committee approved six work areas to shape the Newton Abbot Town Centre Masterplan, being developed in partnership with Newton Abbot Town Council, Devon County Council, local organisations and community representatives.

The six priorities reflect views of more than 1,100 residents, local businesses, schools, community groups and voluntary organisations which took part in surveys and workshops over the last year.

Responsibility for working on the project will be shared between Teignbridge District Council, Newton Abbot Town Council and Newton Abbot Rotary.

Among the six themes is Vision, creating a ‘shared identity for Newton Abbot through consistent branding, digital content and promotional materials’.

Economy and Activity will support the town centre economy by bringing empty buildings back into use, improving shopfronts and exploring new leisure opportunities, including work around the Cattle Market, multi-storey car park and surrounding area.

Culture and heritage will strengthen links between the cinema and museum and support events, sports facilities and heritage projects.

Greening and street scene will make the town centre more attractive through tree planting, public art and environmental improvements.

Travel and parking will include a sustainable travel hub, better walking and cycling routes, and improved public transport links.

More homes will be created by progressing the Bradley Lane site and identifying other brownfield sites and opportunities above shops.

Cllr David Palethorpe, Executive Member for Strategic Delivery and Economy, said: ‘The consultation showed how strongly people care about Newton Abbot and its future.

‘Residents, businesses and community groups have helped shape these priorities. We are now turning those ideas into practical projects.’