The challenges that face West Devon over the next 20 years will be put before the people of the borough through a series of community events over the next few weeks. Views are being sought on West Devon?s draft core strategy which will set out how the borough develops over the next two decades. The strategy explains how we could meet a range of challenges that will face West Devon including climate change, housing affordability, vulnerable rural communities and lack of public transport. The document suggests ways of delivering new housing and land for employment and business that is needed in West Devon. A further document suggesting possible sites where the development could be built is also being published at the same time on Thursday July 26. Council planning officers will be taking the documents out on the road for the people of West Devon to give their views and to suggest other potential sites. A series of community events are being held later this month and in August. The planning team will be at: l The council?s West Devon Connect surgery in North Tawton on Thursday July 26 from 9.30am to noon l The Tavistock Food and Drink Festival on the weekend of Saturday July 28 and Sunday July 29 in Bedford car park where West Devon Borough Council has a stand l Okehampton Show on Thursday August 9, all day l Further Connect surgeries at the Arundell Arms, Lifton, on Wednesday August 1 and Hatherleigh Market on Tuesday August 7, both from 9.30am to noon. l Those unable to attend day sessions, will also be able to make their views known at two afternoon and evening events at Tavistock Town Hall on Tuesday July 31 and Okehampton Charter Hall on Thursday August 23, both from 2pm to 8pm. Further consultation dates for the strategy are being organised and will be publicised over the coming weeks. Cllr Diana Moyse, chairman of the council?s future planning and housing committee, said she hoped that as many people as possible would take the time to attend the events and look closely at the proposals. She said: ?This is the ideal opportunity to get involved in the planning process in West Devon and tell us how you think we could meet these challenges. ?Twenty years may seem like a long way down the line for some but we really need to plan for these eventualities now and this is the chance for people to influence the strategy.?
