RESIDENTS and business operators in the Newton Abbot area are reminded to comment 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.’

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