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Severe drought declared
Despite some recent rainfall, Devon is now in severe drought after months of exceptionally hot, dry weather. Rivers, reservoirs, and groundwater supplies are still under pressure and will take time to recover.
A hosepipe ban is currently in place across Devon, meaning residents must not use a hosepipe for non-essential purposes such as watering gardens, washing cars, or cleaning patios.
The good news is that if we all make some small changes, it can make a big difference. Taking shorter showers, fixing leaking taps and toilets, turning off the tap while brushing your teeth, and using a watering can (instead of a hosepipe), all help save water. Every drop counts.
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Councils need certainty on infrastructure before growth, East Devon Leader tells Prime Minister
Left: Councillor Paul Arnott, Leader of East Devon District Council. Right: Prime Minister, Andy Burnham © House of Commons
The Leader of East Devon District Council has written to the Prime Minister warning that councils are being put in an impossible position when planning for new homes.Â
The letter follows years of concern about wastewater infrastructure in the region. In 2024, East Devon District Council passed a vote of no confidence in South West Water, because of fears about the impact of inadequate infrastructure on local communities and the company's ability to support future development.
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Clyst Meadows officially opens as a new green space for people, dogs, and nature
Clyst Meadows offers open countryside, year-round walking routes, cycle parking, picnic areas, and secure space for dogs to run and play off lead.Â
Following the ribbon-cutting ceremony, visitors were invited to explore the site, meet some of the people involved in the project, watch chainsaw artist Dan Cordell carving sculptures reflecting the wildlife of the area, and find out more about plans for volunteering, community activities, and future events.
Keep in touch with the Countryside Team on Facebook and Instagram.
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Last chance to see 'Yasmin David: The Nature of Light' exhibition
Don't miss this key exhibition of the newly discovered works of post-war British landscape painter, Yasmin David, exploring the light and landscape of Dartmoor.
"A revelatory exhibition places David at the heart of British landscape painting" - The Guardian.
The exhibition is free to visit (donations welcome), Tuesday to Saturday, 10am to 5pm until Saturday 31 October.Â
Thelma Hulbert Gallery, Dowell St, Honiton EX14 1LX thelmahulbert.com
Discover more events in the local area on East Devon Excellence's website.
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Memorial bulb planting at Sidmouth’s Connaught Gardens
You're invited to plant a bulb in memory of a loved one in Sidmouth's Connaught Gardens on Thursday 22 October at 10.30am. The council will be providing the bulbs and overseeing the planting.
If you would like to attend, please ensure you wear weather-appropriate clothing and footwear. When you arrive, say hello to the team who will meet on the lawn by the bandstand, as you enter the gardens.
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Consultation on proposed changes to dog control wording
You're invited to review the current and proposed wording and tell the council whether you agree or disagree with the proposed changes to the sections concerning disabilities. Have your say before the deadline of 4pm on Thursday 12 November 2026.
If you, or someone you know, is unable to complete an online consultation or survey, request a paper version, by emailing engagement@eastdevon.gov.uk. Please submit this request at least four days before the consultation closes, so that the response is received before the deadline.
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Have you downloaded our free East Devon app yet?
Join more than 60,000 residents using our smartphone app and get simple personalised recycling and waste collection reminders, the latest collection updates and tell us about a missed collection. You can download the app through the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
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