Month: August 2015

Dr James Vann has said ‘The situation remains very complex but in essence the battle to keep beds in Axminster is almost lost’. Almost but not quite. He suggests one last bombardment of letters to the Devon Scrutiny (HWOSC) Committee before their next meeting on 14 September .

If you write a letter you should complain about the reduction in Health Care in the area since the closure of the beds in January, initially temporarily by NDHT then permanently by the CCG in July. Try to give examples where care has been more difficult because the beds have been closed. State if you feel patients have suffered during these last 8 months. Any examples of ‘end of life care’ that has been affected in a detrimental way would be very helpful. Also examples of patients staying longer in RD&E because there were no beds in Axminster. The situation of course has meant more pressure on GPs and community nurses.

Address your letter to: Cllr Richard Westlake, Chairman of the Devon County Council Health and Wellbeing Scrutiny Committee,  County Hall, Topsham Rd , Exeter, EX2 4QD

Copy to:  Cllr Claire Wright, Cllr Andrew Moulding and Cllr Paul Diviani at the same address.

NB CCG has been told it can go ahead with making further plans for RD&E Trust to be the next provider for this area.They are expected to make the appointment in November. The Action Group is  aiming to have discussions with the RD&E about how they see the future of community hospitals beds, especially Axminster.

EDDC is reviewing its approach to defining its ‘Built-Up Area Boundaries’ and wants your input.

Built-Up Area Boundaries are lines drawn on maps that define ‘built-up’ areas where planning policies provide for development (subject to other considerations).

The East Devon Villages Plan Consultation document sets out their thinking and how you can get involved. An Update paper on the Villages Plan gives more information.

You can submit your views by either writing to Planning Policy, East Devon District Council, Knowle, Sidmouth, EX10 8HL or sending an email to us at localplan@eastdevon.gov.uk. Please put ‘Villages Built-up Area Boundary Consultation’ in the subject box of the email or at the top of your letter.  It would be helpful if you could respond to the 5 questions set out in the consultation paper.

Please contact the planning policy team on 01395 516551 if you have any queries.

Deadline – If you have any comments on the approach set out, please write on or before Monday 21 September 2015 so that EDDC can consider them before preparing the next stage of the ‘Villages Plan’.

NB .Musbury Parish Councillors are meeting with Planning Officers on Friday 14 August. An open meeting for residents will be arranged after that.