Shocking news Devon County Council has a ‘black hole’ of £40 million, however with ‘offer ledger’ debit it could be almost £160 million. Government cuts in council funding has played its part; However Torbay Council has shown the way strong leadership from elected councillors and officers can buck the trend.
Sadly we lost the vote at Devon County Council to refer the closure of Teignmouth Hospital to the Health Secretary, probably the last chance to save our hospital. New legislation ends the referral power of county councils. Liberal Democrats and Independents voting to save, however outvoted by Labour and Conservative county councillors. Thank you to the public speakers: local Conservative district councillors, Cllr Sylvia Russell, Cllr Chris Chris Clarance, former Lib Dem county councillor John Smith. Hospital campaigner Geralyn Athurs and former surgeon Dr David Harpin for speaking with authority and common sense.

After nearly 17 years at helm as Chief Executive for Devon County Council, Phil Norrey has decided that it is time for me to retire. A tough act to follow.
Phil said: “It has been a huge privilege to serve the elected councillors and people of Devon in this role and to work with so many talented and dedicated Devon County Council employees.”
Phil will be leaving on 31 August 2022 and the Council is taking immediate steps to recruit Phil’s successor and to make an interim appointment should that be necessary.
I sponsored Prom-Prom to paint and renew the second ‘sentry boxes’ at the Pier (thanks to Grand Pier management for permission). Dr Tony Lidington is planning a series of great acts for Teignmouth – last year he got publicity for our town on national TV, BBC Radio 4, the Guardian and the Sunday Times.
I am very concerned the county council has got it so catastrophically wrong on double yellow lines on Mill Lane. I am taking up again (ironically one of the Highways Engineers lives at the top of Mill Lane).
I am looking to get double yellow lines (no waiting) removed from roads they are no longer needed.
Our children and young people are the key. Whilst many already have a great childhood, it is not true for all. Devon County Council want to create the environment where every child has high aspirations and can meet their potential, where there are more opportunities to succeed, and where our young people can afford to live here and want to stay. We also need to do more to tackle discrimination, poverty and disadvantage and increase social mobility so that many more get the chance to succeed and can benefit.