Latest News from West Devon Borough Council

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5 December 2025

Latest News from West Devon Borough Council

Revenues and Benefits system is currently offline

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Our Revenues & Benefits system is currently offline for maintenance but will return on Tuesday 9 December.

As a council, we need to be vigilant about the risk of cyber-attacks so to protect and secure data our Revenues and Benefits system is being migrated to the Cloud. 

This work is taking place from midday today until Monday 8 December. During this time, our Revenues and Benefits team will not have access to systems so will be unable to process enquiries and provide their usual support by telephone, in-person or by webchat. 

Thank you for your patience!


We're making a stand against fly tipping

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We have a new strategy to enforce against those fly-tipping in our borough. 

Fly tipping is not just an eyesore—it’s a crime that damages our environment, endangers wildlife, and places a financial burden on local communities. Reporting incidents promptly allows us to respond quickly, remove hazardous waste, and gather evidence to pursue offenders.

Every report helps deter future offences and supports enforcement action, including the issuing of Fixed Penalty Notices (FPNs) and, where necessary, prosecution.

Find out how you can help and how to safely get rid of unwanted waste so you don't get caught by unscrupulous waste collectors.

Find out more


Calling all Okehampton residents

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Share your views on our early ideas for new homes in Okehampton

As part of our ambition to deliver more homes our local people need, we are currently exploring the development of up to 30 new Affordable Homes at Wonnacotts Road, Okehampton.

This is an informal consultation – no planning application will be submitted until early spring. Right now, we want to hear your thoughts on our initial proposals. 

Please join us at our community event tomorrow:

  • Saturday 6 December

  • 10 a.m. to 12 noon

  • Ockment Centre, 31 North St, Okehampton EX20 1AR

Here you can chat with our Housing team and share your views.

Can’t make it? Email us at affordable.housing@swdevon.gov.uk to have your say.


Complete your xmas list on your high street!

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From unique gifts to festive treats, everything you need is right here in West Devon. Support local traders, enjoy the Christmas lights, and make memories with family and friends.

  • Find the perfect gifts for everyone on your list
  • Pick up costumes for the nativity play
  • Discover party outfits for those festive celebrations
  • Order delicious food and drink for the big day
  • Meet friends and family and soak up the seasonal events

Your local high street has Christmas covered. Shop local, celebrate together!

Visit our website for more details. 


Free sustainability support for West Devon businesses

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Would you like to learn about making your small business more sustainable?

On Tuesday 13 January, there will be an in-person workshop on Sustainability for Small Businesses, being held for people all across South and West Devon.

This hands-on, in-person workshop gives you simple, practical actions you can apply immediately to reduce emissions, cut costs, and future-proof your business. No jargon - just real, achievable steps tailored to the realities of running a small or growing organisation. The session will last 90 minutes, with 30 minutes of networking afterwards.

The session takes place on 13 January at Newton Abbot Library at 10 a.m.

You can sign up for the event online here.

For those who are ready for more in-depth information on their business, Libraries Unlimited and BIPC Devon are offering fully funded sustainability consultancy through the Decarbonisation Programme, delivered by Netshift.

Businesses in West Devon can now access one-to-one consultancy, a carbon footprint audit, and a tailored action plan to help reduce emissions and strengthen sustainability credentials.

You’ll also join a growing network of Devon SMEs committed to building a cleaner, greener future - with training, peer learning and practical steps you can start implementing straight away.

Places are limited, so early registration is encouraged.

👉 Apply now: https://bipc.librariesunlimited.org.uk/decarbonisation-plans/


Recycle your cardboard this Christmas

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You'll undoubtedly have a lot of packaging around the house if you're doing some of your Christmas shopping online.

If you have cardboard, cut it up, flatten it and put it in recycling box 2.

Any polystyrene or bubble wrap from your parcels should go in your black bin bag.

Read our online guide about what you can and can't recycle this Christmas.


Job Vacancies

Recruitment Image Jobs Employment


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.

Click here to find out more