Mel Stride MP has been shown the site for the new village hall in Widecombe-in-the-Moor (which has recently been given planning permission by Dartmoor National Park) by local Teignbridge Councillor Sarah Parker-Khan. The pair discussed various issues affecting the village including access to superfast broadband and the 27-day ban on wild camping recently imposed in parts of Dartmoor by DNP to protect damage to beauty spots.
Cllr Parker-Khan explained:
“The existing village hall in Widecombe is located in the National Trust building and although well used, is impossible to adapt to modern safety and accessibility standards. Fundraising for the new hall is 50% complete and construction will be dependent on further fundraising - the major element of which will begin once planning is fully finalised. With DNP having granted planning for the application, which includes an electric car charging point, I am hopeful this is just a matter of time.”
Mel said:
“The parish council and everyone who has been involved over many years on this project should be very proud with the progress being made. I was delighted that it was given planning permission by DNP last month and providing the remaining funds can be raised I have no doubt it will be a great community asset for generations to come.”
Mel offered to lobby in support of any grant applications that are made for the project.
