The Meet Your Councillor initiative saw council members and officers engaging with passers-by, inviting questions and comments about Newton Abbot. Residents, visitors, and traders were asked to share what they felt was good and not so good about the town, and to offer suggestions for change.
The event also highlighted the Town Council's ongoing role in the area's future governance, irrespective of any changes brought about by the Local Government Reorganisation (LGR). Attendees were encouraged to consider standing as candidates in the May 2027 election.
Town Clerk Phil Rowe commented on the public's understanding of council roles, noting that the LGR process may have added complexity. He assured the public that the Newton Abbot Town Council would remain active. 'The reception we’ve been getting is very good with residents pleased to see us putting our faces in front of theirs with no place to hide,' he stated.
All comments received will be reviewed and incorporated into council business or passed to relevant bodies. The council expressed gratitude to everyone who participated, noting that the event facilitated more interaction in one day than a year of council meetings.
This was not the first time the Town Council has set up a stall in the town centre; a previous event was held earlier this year for the Annual Town Meeting. This weekend's event also included participation from the Museum, Community Transport, and Teignbridge District Council.
“"The Town Council kindly invited us to show what we’re doing and explain what we’re for, how we can help if people have any issues such as benefits, debt or housing. We’re also looking out for volunteers to act as advisors or help with administration. It’s good to be here when the town is busy and we could always do with more opportunities like this so we’ll be back in November to plug our energy campaign when bills will be going up again."
