Independence for Plympton idea is 'gaining support'

A CALL for Plympton to become independent from Plymouth and have its own town council is gaining support in the community.

- By ALISON STEPHENSON Local Democracy Reporter

Plympton's four Independent councillors - Patrick Nicholson, Terri Beer, Andrea Loveridge and Sally Nicholson - are proposing the move as the government seeks to improve local engagement between councils and communities under local government reorganisation.

Green councillor for Plympton Chaddlewood Ian Poyser also "totally supports" this proposal and says there is scope under the government's plan to adopt this level of neighbourhood governance.

Plympton's population is around 35,000 residents and it once had a parish council for over 70 years but in 1967 administration passed to Plymouth City Council.

Cllr Patrick Nicholson (Plympton St Mary) said it's time Plympton gained its independence back. He claims residents and businesses will all benefit from having a town council which is closer to the community with better "community cohesion".

"Plympton needs improved neighbourhood engagement," he said. "Ivybridge, Tavistock and Totnes are all smaller than Plympton but have their own independent town councils and a local voice.

"Plympton deserves the same and we are calling on local residents to back our proposal."

He said so far he had not spoken to anyone who was against the idea but was keen on getting a lot more feedback.