Christmas is coming and so is Dartmouth’s Annual Ferry Refit

Posted on 26th November 202526th November 2025 by admin



Christmas is coming and so is Dartmouth’s Annual Ferry Refit
Issued 25 November 2025
With Christmas just around the corner, Dartmouth’s Lower Ferry is gearing up to keep the festive spirit, and the town, moving! To keep passengers safe and to follow legal guidelines, the ferries’ annual refits and Marine and Coastguard Agency (MCA) inspections will be taking place between November and February. Whether you’re heading to a Christmas party, shopping for those all-important presents, or visiting friends and family, the Dartmouth Lower Ferry team are working hard to make sure your journeys across the Dart are as smooth as possible this winter. Knowing how important it is to keep Dartmouth, Kingswear and the wider area connected during the festive season, they’ll have extra staff on board during single ferry periods, working hard to keep everything running safely and efficiently. Please be patient and kind to the team – they’re here to help you get where you need to go. Winter Service Schedule: Starting with Tom Avis and Hauley VI getting their refits, the services will run as follows: Single ferry service Will run until Monday 8 December 2025. Double ferry service over the busy Christmas period. Will run from Monday 8 December 2025 to Sunday 4 January 2026. It’s then the turn of Tom Casey and Hauley V to have their annual safety updates and checks, but the team will wait until after the New Year to restart. Single ferry service Will run between Monday 5 January to Monday 9 February 2026. Double ferry service Will run from on its usual schedule from Monday 9 February 2026. The full service returns for the rest of winter and into spring with all dates being subject to change depending on MCA availability and inspection findings. South Hams District Council’s Executive Member for Community Services & Operations and Leisure, Cllr Julian Brazil, said: “Christmas is a special time in Dartmouth, and we want everyone to be able to enjoy the festivities without worry. Our maintenance and inspections are vital for safety, but we’re delighted that both ferries will be running for the busiest part of the season. “Whether you’re off to a party, picking up last-minute gifts, or enjoying the magic of Christmas in the town, we’re here to help you cross the Dart with ease.” South Hams District Council’s Dartmouth and East Dart Ward Members, said: “We’d like to express a big thank you to all the crew and staff who provide such an efficient and safe ferry crossing in all weathers.” For updates, information and ferry times, please visit: www.southhams.gov.uk/dartmouth-lower-ferry You can also follow the Lower Ferry’s Facebook page for immediate updates.

South Hams District Council Sows Seeds for New Urban Wildlife Meadows in Ivybridge

Posted on 24th November 202524th November 2025 by admin



South Hams District Council Sows Seeds for New Urban Wildlife Meadows in Ivybridge
Issued 24 November 2025
South Hams District Council is delighted to announce the creation of a series of new urban mini meadows across Ivybridge, as part of its ongoing commitment to enhancing local biodiversity and supporting wildlife. The initiative, delivered in partnership with ParkLife South West CIC and local volunteers, is transforming selected Council-owned greenspaces into vibrant wildflower meadows. The chosen sites have already benefited from relaxed mowing regimes and have been carefully selected to make sure the meadows do not impact formal or informal recreation. The work currently underway includes removing the top layer of grass, moss, and organic matter (scarifying), then sowing a locally sourced perennial wildflower mix, including yellow rattle—a key species for meadow creation. Signage will be at each location to explain the project and encourage community engagement. Once they are established, these meadows will bring life and colour to Ivybridge’s green spaces, providing vital food and shelter for insects such as bees and butterflies, as well as birds and small mammals. The project is funded through Section 106 contributions from a planning development specifically allocated for off-site biodiversity measures to enhance habitats in Ivybridge. Maintenance will be carried out to ensure the meadows get off to a good start, and the meadow can be expected to improve year by year as the perennial flowers get established. Cllr John McKay, South Hams District Council’s Executive Member for Climate Change and Biodiversity, said: “This project is a fantastic example of how we can work together with our communities and partners to create spaces that benefit both people and wildlife. These meadows will not only brighten up our greenspaces but will also provide much-needed habitats for pollinators and other species. We look forward to seeing them flourish and hope to expand the scheme in the coming years.” The meadow areas are being created on land on, or next to: Bridge Park Manor Drive Near Cornwood Rd (towards Spinney) Near Marjore Kelly Way Triangle off Cole Lane Verge alongside Rivers Close Northern end of St Peters Way West side of path alongside B3213 Rue St Pierre Gorse Way Orchard between Blackthorn Drive and Filham Moor Close Corner of Woolcombe and Godwell Lane ParkLife South West Director Keith Rennells, said: "It is great to be involved in such vital work in Ivybridge. Britain has lost 97% of its wildflower meadows over the last century, and those that remain tend to be small and fragmented. So it is important that we create new ones, and these eleven new meadows combine to provide a rich habitat for insects, birds and small mammals. They are dotted all around town, and we've had a really positive response from the community, people are seeing the benefit to local wildlife." The Council hopes that if successful, the meadows scheme can be expanded in future years.

Temporary Traffic Notice – ROAD FROM SUNNY PARK TO MARJERY CROSS, HUNSDON, Ermington (TTRO2666333)

Posted on 19th November 202519th November 2025 by admin

Councils to consider final proposals for the future of local services in Devon

Posted on 17th November 202517th November 2025 by admin



Councils to consider final proposals for the future of local services in Devon
Issued 17 November 2025
Final proposals to reshape and reimagine the future of local services in Devon are set to be formally considered by councillors later this month. Reimagining Devon: Believe in Better has been published by seven of Devon’s district councils, outlining a new model for local government to secure a brighter and more prosperous future for the county and its communities. In December 2024, the UK Government announced plans to simplify the structure of local government across England. Areas such as Devon, which currently has a ‘two-tier’ system comprising a county council and district councils, are being asked to develop new unitary authorities. East Devon, Mid Devon, North Devon, South Hams, Teignbridge, Torridge and West Devon district councils have been working together to shape the proposal. Torbay Council has collaborated with the districts in developing the case but is pursuing its own submission which would see it remain as a unitary authority. The districts’ proposal, known as the 4-5-1 model, includes: Torbay and Southern Devon - a unitary authority made up of South Hams, Teignbridge, Torbay and West Devon Exeter and Northern Devon - a unitary authority made up of East Devon, Exeter, Mid Devon, North Devon and Torridge Plymouth City Council remaining a standalone unitary authority The 4-5-1 model has been designed to create three robust and balanced unitary authorities in which services are designed and delivered close to communities, as well as unlocking place-based economic growth that will ensure no community is left behind. It facilitates the transformation of public services and promotes integrated delivery across health, social care, education, housing and community services. Financial modelling conducted as part of the proposal forecasts savings of at least £77.1m from year six, and a cumulative saving of £508m by ten years. The initial investment associated with setting up the new councils would be recouped within three years. In a joint statement, the councils’ leaders said: “We believe this proposal truly delivers the best possible outcomes for all of Devon’s 1.2 million residents, with three authorities that are big enough to be financially sustainable and deliver major services while remaining local and accessible with communities at their hearts. “This proposal has been built by rigorous evidence-based analysis and assessment, and extensive engagement with residents, businesses, partners and community groups. The result, this reimagining of Devon, will give our residents the local services they want, tailored to their needs, and ensures our councils are future-proof and resilient for generations to come.” Each council will formally consider approving the proposal at their own respective meetings between 25 November and the deadline for submission of proposals on 28 November. The full proposal, *Reimagining Devon: Believe in Better*, is available to view at https://www.reimaginingdevon.org.

Christmas Sorted – tick off your festive essentials locally

Posted on 14th November 202514th November 2025 by admin



Christmas Sorted – tick off your festive essentials locally
Issued 14 November 2025
South Hams District Council is delighted to announce the launch of its annual Christmas campaign, designed to encourage residents and visitors to shop locally and support the high street during the festive season. Whether young or old, most people have their own festive checklist. These lists are great to help residents make the most of what their high street has to offer, whether it’s picking up gifts, enjoying seasonal treats, or attending local events. As well as the essential Christmas gifts, the Council is working closely with town councils to promote a packed calendar of Christmas events, from markets and light switch-ons to family-friendly entertainment. Cllr John Birch, Executive Member for Economic Development at South Hams District Council, said: “Christmas is a special time for our communities, and our high streets play a vital role in bringing people together. By choosing to shop locally, we can all help our independent businesses to flourish and keep our towns vibrant. “This campaign is about more than just shopping—it’s about celebrating the spirit of South Hams and making memories with family and friends. I encourage everyone to explore what’s on offer and support our local traders this festive season.” Residents can find more information about local events on the Council’s website and social media, with a handy online guide to all the town’s festivities being available at www.southhams.gov.uk/christmas-events. It also has a link to their Events in the South Hams Facebook group where other local events are posted by the community. Take a look and see what’s on in your area this Christmastime.

Council invests in warmer, healthier homes

Posted on 23rd October 202523rd October 2025 by admin



Council invests in warmer, healthier homes
Issued 23 October 2025
South Hams District Council is continuing its work to make sure residents have safe, good quality homes that support health and wellbeing. As discussed at their Executive Meeting today (23 October), the Council earlier this year completed the Home Upgrade Grant programme, which helped improve 46 properties across the District with new heating and energy-saving upgrades. Residents are already seeing the benefits, from warmer rooms and reduced damp to lower energy bills. One South Hams resident said: "Definitely much warmer throughout at a constant temperature. There are no cold spots or draughts as before, no mildew or damp anywhere… my whole house is comfortable and keeps to the set temperature from the thermostat." Another added: "My home temperature is now more stable… all areas of my home feel comfortable. My energy consumption has slightly reduced, and I am more confident that I can manage my energy use now." Building on this success, the Council has now launched the Warmer Homes: Local Grant – a three-year Government funded scheme worth over £1.6 million. This programme could help improve up to 80 more homes across South Hams, tackling cold, damp and poor energy efficiency. The scheme is aimed at households who are on a low income, living in homes that are hard to heat, or struggling with issues like damp and poor insulation. Eligible residents will be supported through the process from start to finish. Working closely with community partners such as South Dartmoor Community Energy, the Council will identify and support eligible households to make sure every pound of funding makes a real difference to local families. Nicky Puttick, Project Manager at South Dartmoor Community Energy said: “We’re delighted to continue working with South Hams District Council to make sure this funding reaches the households who need it most. “Our team of local advisors see first-hand what a difference a warm, dry home makes to people’s day-to-day lives. With this new funding, we can help even more South Hams households feel comfortable, save money on their bills, and enjoy homes that are healthy and ready for the future.” Cllr Denise O’Callaghan, Executive Member for Housing, at South Hams District Council, said: "A warm, safe and good quality home is essential for health and wellbeing. “We’re committed to tackling poor housing conditions and ensuring residents can live comfortably and sustainably in the South Hams." New eligible households will be invited to take part in the scheme from early 2026.

Devon councils announce proposal for new local government structure for the county

Posted on 16th October 202516th October 2025 by admin



Devon councils announce proposal for new local government structure for the county
Issued 15 October 2025
Devon’s district councils have collaboratively joined forces to respond to government proposals to reorganise local government in the county. In December 2024, the UK Government announced plans to simplify the structure of local government across England. Areas such as Devon, which currently has a ‘two-tier’ system comprising a county council and district councils, are being asked to develop new unitary authorities. East Devon, West Devon, South Hams, Teignbridge, Mid Devon, North Devon and Torridge district councils, in consultation with Torbay Council, have been working together to shape a proposal. Torbay continues to work on its own submission. The Districts’ proposal, known as the 4-5-1 model, includes: A unitary authority for West Devon, Teignbridge, South Hams and Torbay A unitary authority for North Devon, Torridge, Mid Devon, East Devon and Exeter Plymouth remaining a standalone unitary authority The proposal reflects Devon’s natural communities, travel-to-work areas, and economic geographies, and is designed to deliver more coherent planning, stronger service delivery, and a unified voice for the county for now and for the future. To maintain strong local connections, community hubs will be introduced, supporting access to essential services. Additionally, stronger and better co-ordinated links and relationships with Town and Parishes will be possible, making community involvement easier and more influential. The councils have undertaken a comprehensive, evidence-led process to evaluate options for reorganisation. This has included collaborative analysis and options appraisal, stakeholder engagement, and independent financial modelling to ensure a credible submission to government. The councils have consulted widely with residents, partners, businesses, and other key stakeholders to ensure the proposals reflect the needs and ambitions of Devon’s communities. There were 5,948 responses to the councils’ various public engagement surveys, with strong participation across the county. In a joint statement, the councils’ leaders said: “We are committed to creating councils that are built around people and place, reflecting the unique geography, economy, and identity of Devon and giving its residents services they can be proud of for generations to come. We have worked very hard across a wide geography and a range of political backgrounds to develop this plan. “Our proposal aims to create a more effective and financially sustainable local government for Devon by aligning council boundaries with real communities and local economies. The new structure will deliver better, more integrated high-quality public services, while ensuring decisions are made closer to residents and reflect local needs. “We want to thank our residents, businesses and wider stakeholders for their invaluable feedback throughout this process. Your views have been central to shaping our proposals and ensuring they are grounded in the lived experiences of Devon’s communities.” The councils are continuing to refine their proposals prior to their submission based on ongoing feedback and will be holding further engagement sessions with stakeholders. The full case for change will be submitted to the Government by the deadline of Friday 28 November 2025. A map showing the breakdown of the 4-5-1 plan as it would look across Devon.

Council helping residents stay warm and healthy with thermal imaging camera scheme

Posted on 16th October 202516th October 2025 by admin



Council helping residents stay warm and healthy with thermal imaging camera scheme
Issued 15 October 2025
South Hams District Council is offering communities across the district the opportunity to use thermal imaging cameras to identify where homes are losing heat, helping residents improve energy efficiency, cut costs, and stay healthier in colder months. The Council is committed to tackling the climate emergency and improving residents’ wellbeing. By addressing the cost-of-living crisis and the health risks of cold, damp homes, the scheme offers practical support where it’s needed most — helping households stay warm, healthy, and financially resilient. Cold homes can contribute to respiratory illnesses, worsen existing health conditions, and increase pressure on health services. By identifying areas of heat loss, residents can take informed steps to make their homes warmer, healthier and more affordable to run. Up to six communities will be able to use the cameras in homes and community buildings throughout the autumn and winter. Applications will be considered on a first come first serve basis. Communities will need to nominate a number of homes in their application to take part. The images will help pinpoint where insulation or other retrofit measures could make the biggest difference, reducing energy bills and carbon emissions. The project is being delivered in partnership with South Dartmoor Community Energy (SDCE), a not-for-profit organisation that helps local people save energy, save money and reduce their environmental impact. Cllr John McKay Executive Member for Climate Change & Biodiversity at South Hams District Council, said: “We know that cold, damp homes can have a serious impact on people’s health and wellbeing, especially for older residents and families with young children. This project gives communities the tools to act — making homes warmer, healthier and more affordable to heat. “At the same time, it’s a practical way to reduce carbon emissions and tackle the climate emergency locally. Every home that becomes more energy efficient is a step towards a greener, more sustainable South Hams. We’re proud to be working with SDCE to help residents make meaningful changes.” Mark Skinner, Home Energy and Retrofit Advisor at South Dartmoor Community Energy, said: “We’re delighted to be working with South Hams District Council on this project, which supports our mission to help residents across the South Hams reduce energy use, lower costs, and cut emissions.” “Thermal imaging cameras are a great tool to show people where energy and heat is being lost in a home and can offer insights into where practical improvements can be made. We hope that communities take up this fantastic opportunity.” The Council is looking to support an “energy champion” in the communities that can take part, who will lead on using a thermal imaging camera in their town, village or area. To apply and find out more, visit www.southhams.gov.uk/thermal-camera-hire

A blooming success for Kingsbridge

Posted on 14th October 202514th October 2025 by admin



A blooming success for Kingsbridge
Issued 13 October 2025
Kingsbridge Town Council and South Hams District Council are proud to celebrate the remarkable success of Kingsbridge in Bloom, who have been awarded a Gold Medal in the ‘Small-Town’ category at the South West RHS Awards Ceremony in Torquay. The town also received the prestigious ‘Champion of Champions Cup’, recognising it as the top-performing town or village under 10,000 population. This achievement reflects the tireless efforts of the Kingsbridge in Bloom team, led by Chair Adrienne Benton, and supported by a passionate group of volunteers, residents, the Town Council and District Council teams. Adrienne said: “This award is a wonderful recognition of the incredible efforts of our volunteer gardeners and Kingsbridge Town Council and South Hams District Council staff. Their commitment and hard work throughout the year have not only impressed the judges but have also made Kingsbridge an even more beautiful place to live and visit “The recognition highlights the continued success of Kingsbridge in Bloom and the town’s dedication to creating welcoming, attractive spaces for residents and visitors alike." Kingsbridge Town Council has proudly supported Kingsbridge in Bloom through funding, promotion, and hands-on collaboration to help the town flourish all year-round. Cllr Julia Wingate, Mayor, Kingsbridge Town Council said: “We’re absolutely thrilled to congratulate the Kingsbridge in Bloom team on yet another spectacular win! Their dedication, creativity, and tireless work continue to make our town a blooming beacon of beauty. Year after year, they show what community spirit and green-fingered passion can achieve — and this year is no exception. Thank you to everyone involved!” South Hams District Council has played a key role in supporting the initiative, with contributions including maintaining green spaces, repairing public assets, coordinating litter collection, and ensuring the town is clean and welcoming for residents and visitors alike. Cllr Julian Brazil, Lead Member for Waste & Recycling; Community Services & Operations and Leisure Centres, at South Hams District Council, said: “A huge congratulations to Kingsbridge in Bloom. This award reflects the dedication of all the local volunteers. “At South Hams, we’re committed to improving the quality of life in all our towns – whether it’s through enhancing public spaces, supporting local initiatives, or investing in cleaner, greener environments. We are really pleased to support Kingsbridge in Bloom, this achievement shows what’s possible when communities work together.” With national recognition now in sight, Kingsbridge continues to blossom. ENDS Photos below: Please credit Gill Matthews. Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/southhamsdistrictcouncil/ X: https://x.com/southhams_dc

DCE October Newsletter

Posted on 9th October 20259th October 2025 by admin

Discover the latest climate initiatives and how you can get involved this October!

Devon Climate Emergency | October 2025

Welcome To Our October Newsletter!

There are many actions already taking place across Devon that are successfully reducing greenhouse gas emissions, increasing resilience and implementing the Devon Carbon Plan and Climate Adaptation Strategy. Here are our picks for the month!

You can see more positive actions and stay updated throughout the month by visiting the Taking Action page on our website.

Met Office and Network Rail Collaborate

The Met Office and Network Rail have signed a new agreement to speed up research into how extreme weather affects rail infrastructure. This partnership will allow studies to be commissioned in days rather than months, helping the rail network respond more quickly to climate-related challenges like flooding and heatwaves. The collaboration supports the Devon Carbon Plan’s goals for infrastructure resilience and cross-sector action on climate adaptation.

Find Out More

Devon’s City Councils Pledge Universal Food Waste Recycling by 2026

Exeter and Plymouth City Councils have committed to rolling out food waste recycling for all residents by April 2026, aligning with new government legislation. Exeter is investing £8 million in infrastructure, while Plymouth is using nearly £2 million in grant funding to provide caddies and communal bins to over 150,000 households. The collected food waste will be processed via anaerobic digestion, generating renewable energy and fertiliser. This move supports the Devon Carbon Plan’s goals to reduce emissions and standardise recycling services across the county.

Find Out More

Octopus Bloom Sparks Urgent Marine Research Collaboration

A rare surge in common octopus numbers off the South West coast has triggered a rapid research response from Plymouth City Council, Devon County Council, DEFRA, and leading marine scientists. The bloom, which disrupted crab and lobster catches, is being investigated using advanced underwater monitoring and real-time data from local fishers. Led by Dr Bryce Stewart, the study aims to uncover the causes of the bloom and assess its impact on marine ecosystems and coastal livelihoods, highlighting the growing need for climate adaptation in our seas.

Find Out More

Restoring Plymouth’s Central Park Ponds

Plymouth City Council is revitalising the ponds in Central Park to boost biodiversity, improve water quality, and reduce flood risk. The project includes desilting, planting native species, and installing wildlife-friendly features. It also supports climate adaptation by managing surface water through sustainable drainage systems. Community involvement has been key, with volunteers and schools helping create habitats and monitor progress. This initiative aligns with Plymouth’s Climate Emergency Action Plan and the Devon Carbon Plan’s goals for nature recovery and low-carbon recreation.

Find Out More

We’re now collecting Taking Action stories by email!

Have a Climate Story To Share? Send Your Story To: climate@devon.gov.uk

Have you or your organisation taken steps to tackle climate change in Devon? Whether it's reducing emissions, building resilience, or inspiring others to act we want to hear about it.

We’re now inviting submissions directly via email. If you have a story to share, please send it to:

📧 climate@devon.gov.uk

Your story could be featured on our website and social media to help inspire others across the county.

Organisation Spotlight - The Upcycled Glass Company

We’re proud to welcome Ian, founder of The Upcycled Glass Company, a sustainable glass workshop on Dartmoor, as a new signatory of the Devon Climate Declaration.

With support from the Back the Future Devon Climate Challenge, Ian has developed ground-breaking techniques to transform PV panel waste and end-of-life building glass into beautiful, functional products, including solar concentrator prototypes presented to UK Research and Innovation.

His workshop is now near carbon neutral and could soon become carbon positive.

Read the Case Study or Endorse the Declaration

Draft Devon Local Nature Recovery Strategy - Public Consultation NOW LIVE!

We’re excited to share that the draft Devon Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS) is now open for public consultation!

This is your chance to help shape a strategy that will guide nature recovery across Devon, including Plymouth and Torbay. The draft LNRS:

Sets out priorities and actions to support nature recovery
Includes detailed information on Devon’s habitats and species
Is designed to be for everyone - individuals, communities, landowners, and organisations

Explore the draft and have your say by 5th November

Join a Public Webinar to Learn More

Want to learn more before responding? Join one of the free public webinars introducing the draft LNRS:

🗓️ Monday 13th October
🕧 12:30–1:30pm

Book your free ticket here

Shape the Future of the North Devon Biosphere: Strategy Consultation Now Open

The North Devon Biosphere Partnership has launched a public consultation on its new 10-year strategy (2025–2035), and your input is vital. The draft strategy sets out 19 ambitious targets covering nature recovery, climate resilience, sustainable tourism, local food, education, and more, all under the theme “Living up to world class by nature.”

Consultation closes Monday 20 October 2025.

If you have questions or need help accessing the documents, please contact: biosphere-mailbox@devon.gov.uk

View the strategy and take part in the consultation

Have Your Say: North Devon Coast National Landscape Management Plan 2025–2030

Last December, the North Devon Coast National Landscape team asked for your views on what their priorities should be over the next five years. Thanks to your input, alongside feedback from partners, stakeholders, local organisations and experts, they’ve now drafted a new Management Plan for 2025–2030.

Public consultation is open until Monday 27 October 2025, and they’d love to hear your thoughts on the proposed policies, aims and objectives.

If you have any questions or trouble accessing the documents, please email: aonb@devon.gov.uk

View the draft plan and complete the questionnaire

Barnfield Road Improvements - Have Your Say!

Proposed improvements to Barnfield Road in Exeter have been suggested to make it safer and more welcoming for everyone. Plans include wider pavements, new cycle lanes, better crossings, and a one-way traffic system between Western Way and Barnfield Crescent. These changes aim to reduce traffic, improve safety, and support walking and cycling in the city centre.

Fill out the online questionnaire by 31st October 2025 to have your say

Chat in person:
📍 Princesshay (outside the former Debenhams)
📅 Tuesday 21st October
🕒 11:30 AM – 6:30 PM

Have Your Say!

Train4Tomorrow: Free Green Skills Bootcamps Now Open

Looking to upskill or switch careers into the green economy? Train4Tomorrow’s Green Skills Bootcamps offer free, flexible training for adults aged 19+ in Devon, Plymouth and Torbay. Courses include Ecology and Conservation, Regenerative Agriculture, and Climate Leadership, with options for both beginners and advanced learners.

Delivered by expert providers like Petroc and the Apricot Centre, these bootcamps run for 12–13 weeks and include hands-on fieldwork, business skills, and pathways into roles such as park ranger, conservation officer, or sustainable farming specialist.

Explore courses and apply now

South Hams Energy Assembly

Join Sustainable South Hams and South Dartmoor Community Energy for the 2025 South Hams Energy Assembly on Saturday 18 October, 9:30am–3:30pm at Kingsbridge Community College. This event brings together community groups, councillors, businesses, and energy experts to accelerate the transition to energy resilience in the South Hams. Expect workshops on fuel poverty, retrofit, renewables, and community energy projects, plus exhibitions, networking, and a tasty lunch.

Find Out More

Step inside the homes of tomorrow - today!

Plymouth Green Open Homes on Sunday 19 October, is offering a unique chance to tour real-life retrofitted homes across the city. From solar panels and heat pumps to rainwater harvesting and insulation, discover how local residents are making their homes more energy efficient and sustainable.

Whether you're a homeowner, renter or just curious, this is a hands-on opportunity to learn directly from those who’ve done it and get inspired to take action in your own space.

Find Out More

Climate, Cake & Conversation: Farming the Flood

Join an evening of film, discussion, and community connection on Wednesday 22 October, 7–9pm at Tavistock Library. The event features Farming the Flood, a locally made film showcasing nature-based flood management on Dartmoor farms. After the screening, share ideas and chat over refreshments about local climate and nature action. Free entry, donations welcome.

Find Out More

Plymouth Net Zero Expo is coming soon!

This is Plymouth's only business-to-business climate event, on 13 November at Boringdon Golf Club. The Expo will bring together businesses, innovators and community leaders for a day of collaboration, inspiration and action.

If you're looking to discover net zero solutions, this is your chance to connect with like-minded organisations and lead change locally.

Find Out More

AI x Sustainability: Unlocking Business Potential Responsibly

Join the University of Plymouth on Tuesday 19 November, 2–4pm at the Sustainability Hub Forum for a free, in-person panel exploring how artificial intelligence can support, or challenge, sustainable development. Experts from business and academia will discuss AI’s role in solving complex sustainability issues, its risks (like energy use and bias), and real-world case studies. Open to professionals, policymakers, academics, and anyone curious about the future of tech and sustainability.

Find Out More

Free Home Energy Upgrades Available

Devon County Council is offering free energy-saving improvements to eligible households, including insulation, heat pumps, solar panels, and more. Grants are available across most of Devon and tailored to help reduce bills and improve comfort.

✅ For homes with EPC rating D or below
✅ Income under £36,000 or receiving benefits
✅ Includes a full energy assessment

📞 Call 0800 999 1439 or email energysavingdevon@devon.gov.uk

Find Out More & Apply

£100,000 Rewilding Challenge Fund Now Open

Rewilding Britain is offering a £100,000 grant for one large-scale rewilding project in Britain. Projects must cover at least 1,000 hectares (10 km²) and be mostly contiguous land or sea proposed for rewilding.

Priority will be given to:

Projects restoring natural processes, habitats, and missing species
Community-led or co-designed initiatives with lasting local benefits
Collaborations between landowners, sea-users, organisations, and communities

📅 Apply by: 10 October 2025

Find Out More & Apply

Beyond the Bin Fund: Grants for Paper Cup Recycling Innovation

Grants of up to £45,000 are available for projects that improve the recycling or reuse of on-the-go paper cups. Funded by the National Cup Recycling Scheme and administered by Valpak, this fund supports:

Awareness campaigns
Infrastructure improvements
Research into scalable recycling solutions

Open to businesses, local authorities, universities, startups, and social enterprises. Collaborative projects are welcome.

📅 Apply by: 31 October 2025

Find Out More and Apply

SUEZ Communities Fund: Grants for Local Facility Improvements

Grants of up to £50,000 are available for capital improvements to public amenities such as village halls, community centres, playgrounds, sports facilities, and historic buildings.

📍 Projects must be within 2.5 miles of a qualifying SUEZ site (e.g. Woodbury Salterton or Brynsworthy near Barnstaple)
👥 Open to charities, community groups, parish councils, and social enterprises
🚫 Not available for new builds or schools
📅 Next deadline: 11 February 2026

Find Out More and Apply

Funding Available: Farming Innovation Programme

DEFRA and UKRI are offering grants through the Farming Innovation Programme to support innovation, research, and development in agriculture. Open to farmers, growers, and foresters in England, the programme includes:

Feasibility Studies – test if a research idea works
Small R&D Partnerships – develop new products or services
ADOPT Grants – support farmer-led trials and experiments

Projects must be collaborative and led by UK-registered businesses. Funding aims to boost productivity, sustainability, and climate resilience in farming.

📅 Deadlines vary by competition

Find Out More & Apply

Grassroots Grants: £500–£2,000 for Small Community Groups

Small, local organisations making a positive impact in their communities can apply for unrestricted grants of £500 to £2,000. Funding can be used flexibly, including for core costs, and supports projects such as:

Access to food and essentials
Improving local greenspaces
Cultural, wellbeing, or support activities
Volunteering and environmental action

👥 Open to not-for-profit groups with income under £25,000
📍 Priority for projects in deprived areas or supporting vulnerable communities
📅 Applications open from 15 September 2025

Find Out More and Apply

Mid Devon Business Refresh Grant: Up to £2,500 for Premises Improvements

Independent businesses in Bampton, Crediton, Cullompton, Tiverton, and surrounding villages can apply for grants of up to £2,500 to improve their commercial premises. The grant covers up to 80% of project costs and aims to enhance customer experience and support local economic vitality.

Eligible applicants include: