Devolution deal capital funding supports affordable homes, jobs and economic growth
A multi-million pound cash injection to provide more affordable homes, sheltered accommodation, green jobs and business growth in Devon and Torbay has been confirmed by Government.
More than £8m will be spent on housing projects in East, North, Mid and West Devon, the South Hams and Torbay.
They are part of the £16m of capital funding from Devon County Council and Torbay Council’s devolution deal.
The funding will now enable 16 projects to progress, accelerating Devon and Torbay’s transition to a net-zero economy and capitalising on the area’s world-leading expertise in green science and technology.
The schemes have been developed by district councils, key business organisations, training providers and other selected organisations who were invited to put forward schemes which could meet the requirements of Devon and Torbay’s devolution proposal.
Projects include:
Torbay Council will repurpose holiday/visitor accommodation to create up to 36 affordable homes
A programme of training at Exeter College to boost practical skills related to green energy
North Devon Council will take control of a number of existing low quality properties in Ilfracombe and improve them to create decent low cost, energy efficient housing in order to re-let them as an ethical landlord
Development of a Green Skills and Energy Centre at South Devon College with the installation of green energy training equipment
Development of modular units known as ‘Cranbox’, to help local businesses set up in Cranbrook and to create a commercial and community hub
Torridge District Council will establish the Appledore Clean Maritime Innovation Centre to create a new global leading R&D space for next generation sustainable maritime initiatives and there will also be the improvement of an existing training facility at the Apricot Centre near Totnes which provides rural and agri-ecological skills for the rural economy.
Two feasibility studies will be undertaken – South Hams District Council will explore an electric vehicle solar canopy for Dartmouth park and ride, and Teignbridge District Council will consider a deep geothermal well at Heathfield near Newton Abbot.
West Devon Borough Council and South Hams District Council are carrying out two essential renovation projects for temporary accommodation to tackle the acute needs of the housing crisis.
A Green Impact Fund is also being launched by Devon County Council to provide capital funding support to enable businesses and community organisations to adopt and implement sustainable products and technologies.