Major plans for historic dock
 | | An artist's impression of the proposed development at Richmond Dock |
EXCITING new plans to reinvigorate the historic Richmond Dock in Appledore - possibly even providing a permanent home for the Kathleen and May - have been submitted to Torridge District Council.
Hidden away from public view in the centre of the village, the listed dry dock is currently redundant. Efforts have been made over a number of years to find a way to pay for the necessary repairs and secure its viable long term future before it becomes beyond repair.
Community facilities, access to the water and repairs to the existing listed dry dock were all part of the aspirations for the site but no public money was available and access to an operational ship repair yard with an empty dry dock was considered risk for members of the public.
North Devon businessman Simon Maunder is the man behind the development plans which have been drawn up following months of discussion with the local planning department.
The proposals, which include a balance of private housing development and retail on the site, will help pay for the dock repairs, new flood defences, public facilities such as a waterside cafe, art gallery and a high quality community delicatessen specialising in local produce.
Appledore's post office would be re-instated and safeguarded in the community building - perhaps the most important issue to local residents.
A new heritage centre is envisaged next to the dry dock to help celebrate Appledore's shipping heritage. New flood defences are also included as, according to the Environment Agency, there is an increased risk of flooding to Appledore as a result of global warming and a rise in sea levels
Simon Maunder, who bought Richmond Dock in 2006, says: "I live across the water and have watched this site deteriorate over a number of years.
"Everybody has an opinion but nobody came forward with viable proposals.
"At last it will be opened to the public and people can wander around and learn a little more about Appledore's historic shipping past or sit and have a drink in a pleasant place and enjoy the stunning views and hopefully see the Kathleen and May if this becomes her new permanent home.
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