These are challenging times for West Devon.  If 2020 has taught us anything, it is the importance of our homes and where we live.

This week, we've launched a seven-week consultation to find out your views on our proposed Housing Strategy 2021-2026. 

Titled Better Homes, Better Lives, we've set out a series of priorities around housing, which will help support the health and wellbeing of residents whilst recognising the unique qualities of the local area.

Many important local issues are highlighted in the strategy. These include:

• The need for quality, affordable housing
• Access to the Disabled Facilities Grant to fund essential adaptations in homes and to promote independent living
• The role that the planning of housing can play in meeting climate change targets

This is your opportunity to help shape housing priorities for the future of our communities.  Public feedback is vital to the success of the plan and will help us to identify if any significant changes need to be made before it is formally adopted.

This strategy comes at a time of great uncertainty following a year of restrictions and lockdowns as a result of the global coronavirus pandemic. A time when “home” took on a stronger meaning.

As we move forward, it is important that we revisit our priorities and make commitments to change. That’s why we have called our strategy Better Homes, Better Lives.

I urge everyone to spare just a few moments to have their voice heard. By telling us what is most important to you, we can deliver a plan that really will make a difference to our communities.

Cllr Debo Sellis, Lead Member for Homes 

To make sure everyone has a chance to join the conversation, there are several ways to have your say.

Firstly, you can complete the online survey at Housing Strategy | engagementwestdevon

This should only take a few minutes of your time.

A series of super-quick 10-second polls will also run across our Facebook, Instagram and Twitter feeds. These are designed to capture local views on some of the most important elements of the strategy.

To take part, please follow us on:

• Twitter @WestDevon_BC
• Facebook @westdevonboroughcouncil 
• Instagram  @westdevon.boroughcouncil 

Please also share your comments or send us a direct message.

The consultation runs until 10am on 1 February 2021 and alternative formats are available on request.

The Housing Strategy focuses on six important themes:

Housing for Place

• Ensuring sustainable housing growth
• Promote balanced and sustainable communities
• Ensuring that homes support the health and wellbeing of the area

Housing for People

• Homes that support the health and wellbeing of our residents
• Make the best use and improve quality of existing housing
• Ensuring that people can access the support and advice they require

West Devon Borough Council has declared a climate emergency and greener initiatives that deliver on carbon reduction, green energy and improving homes in a sustainable way are key aspects of this strategy.

Download the full pdf document here: 

Housing Strategy | engagementwestdevon