Event bookings on district council land in Sidmouth and across East Devon can be taken again thanks to a relaxation of lock down restrictions from the Government.

The relaxation of lock down rules and new guidelines from the Government has enabled East Devon District Council (EDDC) to agree that the process for hiring EDDC land can commence again from August 3.

The council facilitates over 300 events across East Devon parks, gardens and beaches every year.

In Sidmouth EDDC offers event bookings in the following areas:

-Blackmore Gardens

-The Byes

Events range from local community events, markets, live theatre, fun fairs and weddings. Event Organisers will all be required to adhere with Covid-19 secure guidelines to ensure their event is safe to take place and permissions will be subject to any future changes in guidance.

The Events team at the council can offer advice to any potential event organiser on the safety measures they may need to undertake for their event to take place and a specific Covid-19 risk assessment which shows how social distancing, hand sanitising and the safety of attendees is maintained will need to be completed by all event organisers before permission is given for an event to take place.

Councillor Geoff Jung Portfolio holder for Coast, Country and Environment said: "Our District is renowned for its beautiful countryside. Our pretty parks, gardens and beaches offer the perfect location for hosting memorable events with their stunning backdrops and historic sights and many are situated within Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB)."

"Our main events spaces are spread across East Devon. We have active communities throughout the District and our events programme aims to support them in delivering and participating in local events, promote health and wellbeing opportunities, encourages and improves visitor experience and positively increases tourism by attracting new businesses and events to the District."

Further information about booking at event on East Devon District Council land can be found on the website and any potential event organiser who would like to hold an event on should contact the Events Team by emailing [email protected] to discuss their plans.