Over the last year, I have been meeting regularly with the Sherford Consortium to monitor progress and raise the concerns of constituents about the delivery of facilities they were promised in the new town. At my most recent meeting, we discussed a wide range of issues affecting the community, and I wanted to share an update:
Leisure Centre:
As some of you will know, the leisure sector is under real pressure at the moment and attracting investment is tough. The Consortium is in talks with Plymouth City Council to see what funding options might be available, and I’ll keep a close eye on this.
Shops and Neighbourhood Square:
I am pleased that plans are moving forward here, with a planning application already submitted. The proposals include a supermarket, three other retail units, a nursery, and 40 flats. If approval comes through next year, work should begin in 2026. You can find out more here: https://sherford.uk/.../planning-application-submitted.../.
Road Improvements:
The long-awaited improvements to Sherford Road are still waiting on a legal agreement with Plymouth City Council. This agreement is essential before any work can be scheduled, so I am keeping in close contact with both the Consortium and the Council to make sure there are no unnecessary delays. Once this is finalised, the Consortium will be able to book road space and begin planning the works.
Secondary School:
I know how frustrating this remains for many residents. Devon County Council still maintains their position that the numbers don’t justify a secondary school yet. But many families moved to Sherford expecting one, and I will be writing directly to the Leader of the Council to ask for a clear update.
Transport:
Bus services continue to be a problem, and I know this is something many of you contact me about. I will keep raising it with Stagecoach.
GP provision:
This is not happening as quickly as I had hoped. Although a location has been identified, the NHS has yet to commit to the funding required to deliver the GP service we need. I am writing to the NHS locally to press them on making progress as a priority.
I’ll continue pushing on all of these issues to make sure Sherford develops into the thriving, well-supported community that residents were promised. Please don’t hesitate to get in touch with me directly if there’s something you’d like me to raise on your behalf!
