News in Sidmouth

Following long-awaited changes to funding eligibility for flood and coastal risk projects from the Department for Environment, Farming and Rural Affairs (DEFRA), the funding gap for East Devon District Council's Sidmouth and East Beach Management Plan (BMP) is now fully bridged following our assessment as confirmed by our consultant.

This allows the project to proceed to the next stage, subject to DEFRA approval.

The latest message from Devon and Cornwall Police, explaining how the local force is adapting as lockdown eases for people living in the Sidmouth area.

Chief Constable Shaun Sawyer said: "In England, there has now been an easing of Covid-related restrictions and amendments have been made to the legislation, following the Prime Minister's address to the nation on Sunday night.

A popular water sports business, which operates off Sidmouth beach during the summer months, may not open this year due to concerns around social distancing in the wake of Covid-19.

In a recent post on social media, owner Guy Russell said: "With social distancing still being the main tool in fighting this pandemic we cannot really even consider opening unless things get dramatically better.

After weeks of Coronavirus lock down Sidmouth Golf Club has reopened today.

The club reopened for play at 8am this morning (Wednesday, May 13).

In what was probably the final Ofsted inspection of a school before lockdown, school inspectors have confirmed that Colyton Grammar School has maintained its 'Outstanding' rating while praising its students, staff and wider school community.

Colyton Grammar School is a state school with 954 students who come from across Devon, Somerset and Dorset, with many from Sidmouth.

Connaught Gardens in Sidmouth will reopen again tomorrow, at the same time as the The Clock Tower café starts serving takeaways - meaning customers can enjoy 'a little piece of heaven' with a slice of cake.

Owner Justine Fraser said: "We are beyond excited to be opening up the café for takeaways to all of our friends and customers.

The two remaining East Devon District Council gardens in Sidmouth, which have been closed since the coronavirus lock down began, will reopen from tomorrow (Wednesday, May 13).

Connaught Gardens and Blackmore Gardens will both reopen tomorrow. Jacob's Ladder in Sidmouth will remain closed, as will all playparks, skate parks and outdoor gyms.

The number of deaths attributed to the Coronavirus in East Devon has risen slightly despite the average number of deaths across Devon and Cornwall falling by a quarter.

The figures, published today, relate to all deaths that occurred between April 25 and May 1 but were registered up to May 9.

'Frankly irresponsible' is how a Sidmouth councillor has described the Government's decision to ease coronavirus restrictions.

Sidmouth district councillor Cathy Gardner is concerned the lack of clarity on travel restrictions will lead to an influx of people coming to Sidmouth to use the beach and how that may cause a spike in infections.

Senior politicians have renewed their appeal to holidaymakers and second homeowners to stay away from Sidmouth and the rest of the county despite the easing of lock down restrictions.

From Wednesday, coronavirus lock down rules have been adjusted so that people are able to travel for exercise and that those who cannot work from home in an industry that is still open should return to work.