WITH 800 new homes planned and 26 acres of new employment land coming on line, there are exciting times ahead for the development of Okehampton and a unique opportunity has arisen for someone to be at the centre of the action.
A vacancy has arisen on Okehampton Hamlets Parish Council following the resignation of David Terry — and the councillor of seven years' service says there has never been a better time to get involved with local government.
'All future developments in the town will be in Okehampton Hamlets and it's a chance to progress lots of new opportunities,' he said. 'I have enjoyed my time as a councillor, but I feel it is time for a younger person to get involved at such a crucial stage in the development of this area.'
Mr Terry said there were probably as many people employed in Okehampton Hamlets as there was in Okehampton now and he would love to see someone with real interest and enthusiasm get involved and back the hamlets chairman Neil Westlake.
'This is the chance for someone to influence the future,' he added. 'One of the issues the hamlets has been hot on is persuading the borough council to include more recreational areas for children within new housing estates.
'It is things like this and the types of new industry coming to town that we must have an input in from the grass-roots level.'
For a by election to be held to fill the vacancy, ten people from the parish must request it and at least two must put their names forward for the position otherwise it will be filled by co-option.
To find out more telephone the town clerk on 01837 861230.