Date fixed for Teign Estuary Partnership's annual forum

From major coastal engineering works and sand movements through to charismatic wildlife and hidden heritage, a wide range of coastal topics is being covered at 2018’s Teign Estuary and Coastal Partnership’s Annual Forum.

This free public event is being held at Pavilions Teignmouth on Monday 26 February at 7pm. Guests will be able to sample some local ‘Taste of the Teign’ produce which has been kindly sponsored by Associated British Ports.

The Partnership, led by Teignbridge District Council, co-ordinates the management of the Teign Estuary and the open coast between Dawlish Warren and Torbay, with other statutory agencies including Teignmouth Harbour Commission, the Environment Agency, Associated British Ports and Devon County Council, as well as Town Councils and around 100 local organisations.

The Forum comes at a time when the coastal landscape around the Teign Estuary is on the silver screen. Teignmouth is featured in the film The Mercy starring Colin Firth and Rachel Weisz and tells the tale of novice sailor Donald Crowhurst who attempted to complete the arduous Golden Globe Race.

Impacts on marine life through the use of plastic is also under the spotlight following a hugely successful Blue Planet 2 series fronted by David Attenborough.

The Forum is a place where groups are encouraged to share ideas, network and collaborate on ways to promote the use and sustainable management of the Teign Estuary, its coastline, wildlife and surrounding landscape.

Cllr Humphrey Clemens, Teignbridge District Council’s Executive Portfolio Holder for Coastal Services, said: “As host authority, we love to see the energy and commitment of over 100 different local groups and other interested individuals working together for the benefit of everyone on the coast. From scientific research, major engineering projects through to art projects, ‘Taste of the Teign’ local produce promotion and the brilliant work undertaken by local voluntary and sports groups, the Forum event offers something for everyone with an interest in this diverse area.

“We are also offering ‘three minute soapbox slots’ so if you would like present a project or activity to the Forum audience please do get in touch.”

Partnership Chairman, Commander David Vaughan said: “The Partnership always looks forward to the Annual Forum because it invites the widest audience to help play a role in local coastal management, or simply find out more about this special area.

“Whether its economic grant schemes creating new jobs or simply encouraging local children out onto the water for perhaps the first time, the Partnership covers a huge range of opportunities and it’s a real pleasure to be able to showcase a few of our recent activities. As part of the event we are also keen to hear the views of local residents so that we can help make the most of our coastal assets and the way we all use the beach and the water.”

Booking is essential and tickets are available through www.teignbridge.gov.uk/coastalforum

For more information on the soapbox slots email: coastal@teignbridge.gov.uk