Plympton’s four independent councillors have launched a campaign to create a Plympton Town Council, arguing the community’s 35,000 residents deserve a stronger local voice as the Labour government moves forward with plans for local government reorganisation.
Councillors Patrick Nicholson, Terri Beer, Andrea Loveridge and Sally Nicholson say proposals aired by the Labour Government earlier this year to overhaul councils in Devon make this the right moment for Plympton to take more control over local priorities.
Cllr Patrick Nicholson (Plympton St Mary) said:
“Ivybridge, Tavistock and Totnes are all smaller than Plympton but have their own independent Town Councils and a local voice. Plympton deserves the same and we are calling on local residents to back our proposal.”
Cllr Terri Beer (Plympton Erle) added:
“Plympton has a vibrant local community with many community groups which would all benefit from Plympton gaining some local independence and a local voice.”
Cllr Andrea Loveridge (Plympton Erle) is also backing the proposal:
“As a Plympton business owner, far too little consultation takes place between Plymouth City Council and Plympton businesses, so a Town Council will assist in helping to work together for the benefit of the people of Plympton. A Town Council could also enhance Ridgeway Shopping Centre.”
Cllr Sally Nicholson (Plympton St Mary) added:
“Plympton has seen many Council cuts over recent years which has removed many of the most local service provision. We have also been threatened with car parking charges, the potential loss of Harewood House and the Ridgeway public toilets, under the last Conservative Council. An independent Town Council working with Plympton residents would be a win win for Plympton.”
The councillors say a Plympton Town Council could take on responsibilities including the Ridgeway town centre and car parks, allotments, community facilities, public toilets, some local parks and potentially Longcause Cemetery.
They are urging residents to support the plan so Plympton can secure dedicated, accountable leadership focused on local needs.
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