Plans to protect Exeter's green spaces

Plans for the possible transfer of management of some of Exeter’s best known public green spaces are to be discussed at the meeting of the Scrutiny Committee of Exeter City Council.

The meeting to be held on 8 September will consider a proposal that the long term management of parts of Riverside, Ludwell, Mincinglake, Duryard, Belvidere, Barley Valley and Whitycombe Way be transferred from Exeter City Council to the charity Devon Wildlife Trust.

Exeter City Council will continue to own the sites.

Cllr Rob Hannaford, Lead Councillor for Place, said communities and their values were at the heart of the plans.

He said: “This is a huge opportunity for us as a City to make a statement about how we value our greenspaces.

“As a charity, The Devon Wildlife Trust have a wonderful reputation both as guardians and ambassadors. Together we will make sure that our most valuable assets are protected and managed for years to come”.

Devon Wildlife Trust’s Chief Executive, Harry Barton said: “We are in ongoing discussions with Exeter City Council about the transfer of these public greenspaces. Our talks are at an early stage and much of the detail needs to be decided.

“As a charity Devon Wildlife Trust has more than 50 years of experience managing some of the County’s most precious and beautiful greenspaces. Exeter is rightly proud of its countryside sites and if we are to take on their management we will look to improve them still further, working with local communities to enhance their accessibility and showcase their natural and cultural heritage.”