The following is a press release issued by Newton Abbot CIC. In addition I believe Teignbridge District Council have today cleared the graffiti from the subway walls. It really is a about time that the 2 Councils, Teignbridge and Devon County got on top of this issue and stopped blaming each other. NACIC’s useful intervention is welcomed. Having lived in Twickenham Rd for approx. 21 years and walked through the subway 4 times every weekday , to and from Decoy School for approx. 13 of those years, I am appalled by their current state, the whole area is filthy, overgrown and littered. Let’s hope a solution is finally around the corner.

“Newton Abbot Community Interest Company is launching ambitious plans for improvements at Penn Inn roundabout. The CIC is looking for local businesses and residents to support the plans, which include planting of trees, shrubs and flowers inside the roundabout.

By working closely with Devon County Council, Teignbridge District Council and Newton Abbot Town Council the CIC is planning to provide an attractive greenspace at an affordable cost. Work has already begun on clearing the roundabout which had become very overgrown following the construction of the flyover. The CIC would like to thank Teignbridge District Council for carrying out the initial cut of the grass and weeds at Penn Inn, and for their input to the improvement works so far.

Newton Abbot CIC is looking for public support for its plans, with sponsorship opportunities for local business and organisations, as well as the chance for members of the public to sponsor a shrub for just £5. Those not able to provide sponsorship are invited to get involved and help with the planting and on-going maintenance.

The plans will be launched on Wednesday 31^st January 2018 at 6.30pm at Buckland & Milber Community Centre. The launch event will include a talk by renowned horticulturalist David Howard, former Head Gardener to HRH The Prince of Wales at Highgrove House. The talk entitled ‘My garden life’ which is a tour around all of his workplaces during the last 40 years including Australia, Japan, USA, India and Nepal. Together with local nursery Plant World, David is working with the Newton Abbot CIC to design the planting scheme for Penn Inn roundabout.

Lynn McElheron Chair of Newton Abbot CIC commented that “the CIC’s plans for Penn Inn roundabout will provide improvements which are much needed after the roadworks. We are grateful for the support we have already received from both David Howard and Plant World, but would welcome support from any individual or business who would like to get involved. Anyone is welcome to attend the launch on the 31st January whether you are interested in getting involved or would just like to hear about David’s work”.

Although the launch event is free to attend, donations for the event or towards the planting at Penn Inn will be welcomed.

To find out more visit www.newtonabbotcic.org.uk or contact Emily Farrell on (01626) 206690.”