Cash from Chulmleigh development funds town square revamp

Cash from a Chulmleigh development is paying for the revamp of a public area in the town.

It will go towards improvements at Red Lion Corner, known locally as the “town square”.

North Devon Council’s strategy and resources committee has agreed to allocate £37,000 from its public open space fund — money contributed by developers towards community facilities when they secure planning permission for new homes.

For the town square, next to the Grade II listed Red Lion pub, the funding comes from a development of up to 95 homes at Leigh Road, which was granted planning permission on appeal more than a decade ago.

Chulmleigh Parish Council is leading the Red Lion Corner project and will contribute around £4,000.

Improvements will include a shelter, planters, seating, and a cycle stand.

The committee was told there are very few areas in the town centre where people can sit.

Red Lion Corner on South Molton Street was highlighted as an important meeting area, particularly for older residents.

Parish councillors hope more people will use the space to congregate and socialise.