Cllr Rob Steemson, Teignbridge District Haytor Ward Councillor

Email Robert.Steemson@Teignbridge.gov.uk

Teignbridge District Council Residents' update: keeping you informed

Resident's newsletter header 2

The latest news in your community

Structural work begins on Newton Abbot's Market Hall

market hall

Structural work on the interior of the Market Hall, Newton Abbot

Structural works have now started on the Grade II listed Market Hall in Newton Abbot. The plan is to reinstate historic features which restore the building’s original charm and transform it into a welcoming and vibrant space.

The first phase of the ambitious £5 million scheme involved the demolition of a section of the 1970s food hall to create a new pedestrian walkway from Market Street to the square. Teams working on the development were excited to uncover a view that had been hidden by the 1970s extension for nearly half a century.

The ongoing refurbishment of the historic Market Hall will create a thriving hub featuring a bar, street food vendors, retail shops, a café, a fresh food hall, and event spaces.

Don't forget, you can still shop at the market while renovation work is ongoing. Traders have been relocated to a temporary indoor market in the Market Walk Shopping Centre.

The main structural works are expected to be complete by the end of the year, with the Market Hall due to open in Spring 2026.

We are keen to hear from anyone who wishes to know more about the opportunity to manage the new Market Hall space as well as prospective new traders who want to know more about the retail space, the Food Hall or the street food stalls. Anyone interested in these opportunities can email economy@teignbridge.gov.uk

Market Hall Illustation

Artist's impression of how the revitalised Market Hall could look


New Visit Newton Abbot website secures funding

Newton Abbot Quay Bridge

More positive news for Newton Abbot was announced this week with funding secured for the creation of a brand-new ‘Visit Newton Abbot’ website, through Teignbridge District Council’s allocation of UK Shared Prosperity Funding (UKSPF).

Businesses located on Queen Street in Newton Abbot are working in partnership with Newton Abbot Town Council to develop the website, which will showcase the heart and soul of the town; promoting local businesses, attractions and events.

If you have a business in the TQ12 postcode and would like to promote it free of charge on the new website, please fill out your details using the button below.

Share your business details

Essential free training for landlords and property managers

To let sign

With the Renters Rights Bill changes coming into effect shortly, alongside Torbay Council we are jointly running a free webinar to equip landlords and property managers with the knowledge needed to navigate the upcoming changes confidently.

Taking place on Thursday 13 March, from 10am – 12pm, the online session will provide a thorough understanding of the Renters Rights Bill, its implications for business and what they need to do to be compliant.

Book your place

Council news

Public sector procurement changes

A person with a hi-vis jacket bent over using a hammer

Suppliers pitching for contracts with Teignbridge District Council are being reminded about significant changes to public sector procurement.

From 24 February the way that the public sector procures and manages contracts is set to change.

The Procurement Act 2023 heralds a significant shake up in procurement legislation and seeks to improve the way procurement is carried out in the sector.

A key change for suppliers bidding for public contracts over certain thresholds will be a requirement to register on a new central digital platform where they will be able to store details so that they can be used for multiple bids whilst seeing bidding opportunities at the same time.

To help prospective suppliers and other stakeholders prepare for this change in the month ahead, the Cabinet Office has now published video guides that give suppliers an overview of the new registration process.


Other news

Fun activities across Teignbridge this half term!

Swimming pool inflatable obstacle course

Whether you're looking for family-friendly activities in the water or on dry land, there's something for everyone to enjoy across Teignbridge this half term.

At our Leisure Centres…

We’ve got lots to keep everyone entertained including family swims, flume sessions, and our Aqua Run pool obstacle course – featuring our new pool inflatable! We also have a variety of sports, exercise classes and junior gym sessions suitable for children of all ages.

silent disco teignbridge leisure

Get ready to dance the weekend away in a whole new way! This half term, we’re bringing the excitement of a Silent Disco to Newton Abbot Leisure Centre and Dawlish Leisure Centre.

This unique, high-energy event lets you choose your vibe with multiple music channels delivered straight to your wireless headphones. It's £5 for adult, junior and aquasize members and £6 for pay as you go and guest bookers. Find out more online - you can book via the Leisure app or by calling 01626 215660.

At our parks and beaches…

Our junior rangers are running FREE sessions to help you explore our parks and beaches:

Bushcraft Skills @ Dawlish Countryside Park, Wednesday 19 February, 1-3pm

For ages 6-16 years. Booking is essential as there are only 20 places available. To book email: greenspaces@teignbridge.gov.uk

Beachcombing @ Dawlish Warren Nature Reserve, Thursday 20 February 1.30-3pm

Join the Dawlish Warren Rangers for a beach walk to search for strandline treasures such as shells, crabs, cuttlefish, or even mermaid's purses and starfish...

For children aged 7-11 years. You may leave your child with us for this event. Please wear warm and waterproof clothing.

To book either of these events email stephen.edwards@teignbridge.gov.uk or call 01626 863980. No dogs, please.

A girl in a pink jacket collecting items on the beach

Fancy a game of tennis?

We have four newly renovated tennis courts across Teignbridge. The all-weather courts at Bakers Park and Forde Park, Newton Abbot, and Duckspond in Buckfastleigh can be booked online through our website. An Annual Tennis Pass costs £36, which covers up to 10 people in a household and provides a 10-day advanced booking option.

Get a hole in one!

Challenge the family to a round of golf and take advantage of our fantastic offer where kids play for just £1 this half term. Our 18-hole golf course in Shaldon is one of the best pitch and putt courses in the South West, with breathtaking views of Teignmouth and the Teign Estuary. Open daily, no need to book, and suitable for all ages and golfing abilities.

Exclusive Offers for Local Residents

And if you live in an EX, TQ, or PL postcode, you can sign up for FREE to access a host of exclusive offers and discounts on dining experiences, tickets to top attractions, and even short breaks from businesses across South Devon.

Stagecoach is also offering some great deals, with single fares from £3 and the fantastic 5 for 2 offer with a Stagecoach group ticket, travelling by bus travel will make it even easier to have a brilliant local day out.


Fire Service consultation on automatic fire alarms

Devon & Somerset Fire Service Consultation

Devon and Somerset Fire crews respond to an average of 16 false alarms every day due to automatic fire alarms, placing an unnecessary burden on the Service’s resources and their ability to be ready and available for genuine emergencies.

In the last five years, they have been alerted to more than 55,000 automatic fire alarms, out of which just 42 needed the hose reel jet from one of their fire engines, which is less than 0.08%.

The fire service is consulting on the proposed changes to how the service should respond to automatic fire alarms, complete the online survey to share your views.

The consultation closes at midday on Wednesday 9 April 2025.


Dawlish Cost of Living event - March 2025
 

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