Welcome to South Hams

There is a climate emergency, and, while the South Hams contributes an insignificant amount to global warming, and the diffuse nature of local biodiversity loss will mean it has a very small overall effect, we must contribute to the huge challenge of global climate change and to take real action now. There is an opportunity to show what can be done and have a much wider effect. The South Hams can, and should, strive to become an exemplar for what can be achieved.

Providing good quality, genuinely affordable housing is a top priority for the council. We understand the challenges for our residents languishing on housing waiting lists because of high demand and high prices. There are plenty of houses being built across the district, but not enough of them that locals can afford. We’ll be looking to make the best use of existing housing.

We are fortunate to have five vibrant towns in the South Hams, along with several smaller but equally important community centres such as Modbury and South Brent. Our ambition is to transform the South Hams economy into one which leads the way in business decarbonisation, the development of future green energy solutions, and where clean business growth is nurtured and supported.

There are many frontline council services which improve the lives of our residents and enhance public spaces. We will make sure we have the right staff, with the right tools and skills to deliver frontline services that our residents will value. As well as delivering our ambitions around climate, housing, economy, and frontline community services, we need to ensure that all our services, particularly those that are delivered to all households and every community, are delivered efficiently and to a good standard.