PLANNING approval was secured at East Devon District Council’s Development Management Committee for improvements to Mamhead Slipway and for the construction of a new building on Camperdown Terrace to be used by Exmouth Sea Cadets.

These decisions provide a major boost to the regeneration of Exmouth seafront and the start of the proposed development of Camperdown Creek.

The redevelopment of Mamhead Slipway follows its closure on safety grounds. The new, improved slipway will be realigned and enlarged with better vehicle manoeuvring. The planning permission also provides for a temporary construction compound.

In parallel with the planning application a Marine Licence has been applied for from the Marine Management Organisation. Additional funding will also be sought with the intention to begin the work during 2015.

Timing of the construction will take into account the impact on over-wintering birds and fish migration. Following Cabinet’s approval earlier this month of a £150,000 grant to the Exmouth Sea Cadets, the planning permission means the construction of their new headquarters becomes a step closer.

Permission was given for the demolition of the existing shed and construction of a two-storey sea cadets building with external parade ground and boat storage with access from Camperdown Terrace.

Cllr Andrew Moulding, deputy leader of East Devon District Council and chair of Exmouth Regeneration Board said “These projects are great news for Exmouth – for both local people, tourists and the visitor economy.

"The slipway is important not just for Exmouth, but for East Devon as a maritime district – the nearest similar facilities are at West Bay, in Dorset, and Teignmouth. The improved facilities will be an attraction for water users bringing additional visitors into the town. The sea cadets building is great news for their current and future members and will help to kick-start the revitalisation of the Camperdown Creek area.”

Mamhead Slipway and the development of Camperdown Creek are projects within the Exmouth vision to change Exmouth town centre and seafront to establish the resort as an attractive 21st century destination for residents, businesses and visitors.