One of my first actions as your new MP, was to arrange to meet with the Sherford Consortium to raise residents' concerns about the new town of Sherford. I am very grateful to your South Hams District Councillors - Councillor Julie Carson and Councillor Alison Nix for Brixton, Wembury and Sherford who I know have been working closely with residents to assist them with their concerns over the past twelve months. I was pleased that Julie and Alison could also join me for that first meeting.
"Earlier this month, Rebecca Smith MP and the Sherford Consortium met to discuss how the new town of Sherford is progressing, exchange information and share updates. The Sherford Consortium was glad to have the chance to meet and build a working relationship, following Rebecca’s appointment as the MP for South West Devon.
It was clear that all parties – elected representatives, Sherford Consortium and Sherford Community Trust – are working hard to make Sherford a great place to live now and in the future. In the spirit of collaborative and constructive conversation, we plan to meet regularly to share resident feedback and address issues.
Rebecca expressed her strong support for Sherford and her commitment to working alongside the Consortium to address strategic matters including enhancing transport, Plymouth and South Devon Freeport, accessible primary healthcare facilities, and the timely delivery of community amenities.
Community pride for Sherford shone through in Rebecca’s survey, and the Sherford Consortium, local Councillors and Sherford Community Trust are keen to offer their support to ensure Sherford is a vibrant and sustainable community.
Our meeting provided a useful platform to raise residents’ views and queries. We are grateful for those residents who took part in my survey, as the insights helped shape our discussions. We covered several key areas of importance to residents and are pleased to provide some positive updates in turn:
Key Updates from the Consortium & Trust
- Local amenities: It is hoped that the temporary convenience store will open in the next month. The Sherford Consortium is also actively progressing plans for the local centre, with updates to be shared in the near future.
- Sports and leisure facilities: A brand-new partnership with Plymouth Argyle Community Trust has been agreed, which is an exciting step forward that will see the all-weather, grass pitch and tennis courts available for community use as soon as next week. Discussions on indoor facilities are ongoing with Plymouth City Council. The Consortium remains committed to delivering high-quality sports and leisure amenities.
- Housing & Social Infrastructure: The next phases of development are well underway to create new homes at Sherford. Each phase includes the provision of affordable homes, which includes shared ownership and social rent options.
- Healthcare provision: Sherford is set to have a permanent healthcare facility in the town centre – and a temporary solution is being sought ahead of this to support the community. Discussions are in progress with the NHS regarding a GP facility.
- Roads and parking: Driving and parking safely at Sherford is a priority for all parties, and came through as a key issues in the survey responses. The Consortium and local authorities are working towards adoption of the roads, which will enable enforcement measures to be introduced. Communications have recently gone out from the Consortium to urge caution and consideration, especially when parking along Hercules Road.
- Transport links: Sherford already has bus links via Stagecoach services and school transport, but better connections are always welcome. Sherford has been designed with good public transport connections in mind – as well as foot and cycle paths throughout.
We are pleased with the progress made to date and look forward to sharing further updates with the community as we work to deliver on these shared goals. Moving forward, we will continue to work together to ensure that Sherford meets the expectations of its residents and becomes a flagship development for the region."
Keep up to date with Sherford news via the website (www.sherford.uk)
