We need your help to shape the future of local government in Devon by letting us know what matters to you.
In December 2024, Government set out its intention that all areas with two levels of local government (District and County Councils) were required to develop plans for a single level of Government.
In March 2025, a proposal setting out our initial thoughts on the future of local government in Devon was submitted on behalf of all the Devon District Councils, except Exeter. Now final proposals are being prepared and are due to be submitted to the Government in November.
Now, everyone with a connection to the South Hams is being asked what matters to them to help shape our final proposals so they reflect the needs and aspirations of people living and working in the area.
The short survey can be found on our website, which also has more information on local government reorganisation, including Frequently Asked Questions.
Over the next few months, a series of engagement events around South Hams will also be taking place with residents, towns and parish councils and other organisations. Details on how you can get involved will be available soon.
Totnes’ new e-bike scheme is now live – and people can enjoy a free 3-hour ride at this weekend’s Transition Town Totnes Midsummer Festival.
The new Catbikes are being introduced from Friday (20 June) as part of South Hams District Council’s commitment to promote cycling, contributing to its ambitions of tackling climate change and supporting our communities. The bikes will provide people visiting and living in Totnes the chance to travel around the town and surrounding areas in a greener, more sustainable way.
The launch coincides with Transition Town Totnes’ Midsummer Festival, a vibrant three-day event celebrating 20 years of climate action and community-led change.
On Sunday 22 March, there will be a community bike ride departing from Totnes Bike Hub at 10 a.m, and you’ll have the chance to try out the Catbikes from one of the six “bases” around the town:
- Shady Gardens
- Rotherfold Square
- Steamer Quay
- Weston Lane, Bridgetown
- Totnes Leisure Centre
- Follaton House
There are bike racks at all six sites, and the e-bikes will be delivered to each base and tested ahead of the launch.
Anyone wanting to hire a Catbike will need to download the Appbike app and register for the scheme on their smartphone before going for a ride; the app is available to download from both the App Store on iPhone and the Google Play Store on Android phones.
Through the app, users can enter the code CAT22JUNE and enjoy a three-hour ride for free on Sunday 22 June as part of the Midsummer Festival.
To find out more about the scheme, visit: www.southhams.gov.uk/catbikes
Did you know there's a simple, trusted way to check if a call or message from your bank is genuine?
Call 159 – it’s a UK-wide phone number that connects you directly to your bank’s fraud team. Think of it like 111 for the NHS or 101 for the police – but for financial scams.
If you receive a suspicious call, text, or email about a payment or your bank account – whether it claims to be from your bank, HMRC, your phone company, or even the police – stop and call 159.
Devon and Cornwall Police have a few tips to stay safe:
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Use a different phone to call 159 if you can, especially if you're returning a suspicious call.
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Only have one phone? Wait a few minutes, then call a friend first to check the line is clear before dialling 159.
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You can also use 159 for peace of mind before making a new financial transaction.
159 is safe, secure, and supported by major UK banks and phone providers.
Important: 159 will never call you. If someone rings claiming to be 159 – hang up.
To report fraud or cybercrime, visit: www.actionfraud.police.uk
Stay safe and protect yourself from scams.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and the Met Office have issued an amber heat-health alert for the South West this weekend until 6 p.m. on Sunday (22 June).
Please look out for people who could be vulnerable to hot weather such as older people, people with long-term health conditions and young children.
Here are some top tips to staying safe in hot weather:
- Keep out of the sun at the hottest time of the day, between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.
- Keep your home as cool as possible– shading windows and shutting them during the day may help. Open them when it is cooler at night
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and avoid alcohol and caffeine
- Don't forget your suncream and a sunhat
- Check on family, friends and neighbours who may be at higher risk of becoming unwell, and if you are at higher risk, ask them to do the same for you
For more advice visit the UK Health and Security Agency website.
Get discounts at all South Hams District Council car parks by using PayByPhone app or if you pay by cash, you will get an extra 30 minutes free on top of the time purchased instead of the discount. Make a saving every time you park.
You can get discounted parking at all South Hams District Council car parks for a £5 yearly admin fee. Remember before you apply, have either one of the following documents handy:
- V5 log
- Motability Agreement
- Leasing Agreement
Find out more and apply online
We’re working with local businesses and organisations to help shape the future of Totnes – and we want to hear from you!
As part of our priority to grow the economy and job opportunities, we are developing a Community Economic Plan for Totnes.
Fill in our quick online survey by 31 July.
Prefer to chat in person? Join one of our business focus groups:
- The Cott Inn – Tues 24 June, 3 p.m. – 5 p.m.
- Totnes Guildhall – Tues 29 July, 5 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Let’s make sure Totnes works for everyone!
Are you looking for a flexible role in a supportive and open culture? Join the Council! We have a number of exciting roles available for the right person.
Click the button below to see our current vacancies.
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