Following continued interest in the public consultation, another drop-in event will be held on Thursday 5 September, between 5-7pm.

The event, which will take place at Phoenix House, will provide a further opportunity to view and find out more about the Council's draft proposals, and discuss these with officers.

Mid Devon District Council is consulting on an update to the existing Grand Western Canal Conservation Area and Management Plan (CAAMP). The draft plan has been prepared to inform future change, development and design in and around the Grand Western Canal Conservation Area, so that its sensitivities and unique character can be preserved and enhanced.

This new draft plan, currently out for consultation, focuses on:

• reviewing the existing boundary of the Grand Western Canal Conservation Area
• identifying key views and open spaces within the conservation area, and its setting
• offering guidance on common concerns regarding conservation areas
• proposing opportunities for enhancement of the Grand Western Canal Conservation Area
• identifying distinct character areas within the conservation area, noting the predominant building styles, forms, building materials, scale, and density
• recognising designated and non-designated heritage assets and their setting within the conservation area
• reflecting changes in law in 2023, and the definition of conservation from the plan adopted in 1994

Councillor Steve Keable, Cabinet Member for Planning and Economic Regeneration said:

"The Grand Western Canal is a vital part of our local heritage, and it's essential that we take careful steps to preserve its unique character for future generations. The draft plan we are consulting on reflects our commitment to protecting the canal while also considering the potential for thoughtful, sustainable development.

"We strongly encourage residents to participate in this consultation, as your feedback is invaluable in ensuring that the final conservation area and management plan reflects the collective vision of our community.”

All comments received within the consultation period will be carefully considered to help finalise the conservation area and management plan before it is adopted by the Council. Once adopted, the plan will be used in the process of determining planning applications and for implementing management proposals.

Any comments must be received by Monday 16 September 2024. Further information about the conservation area and management plan, including the consultation document, can be found on the Council's website.

Comments can be sent in through a number of ways:

• In person at the event on Thursday 5 September
• By email to: planningconsultations@middevon.gov.uk
• By post to: Forward Planning, Phoenix House, Phoenix Lane, Tiverton, Devon, EX16 6PP