CONSTRUCTION of a new ‘eco’ fence in Newton Abbot has signalled the move towards a sustainable relationship between the town council and a fledgling environmental group.

The structure has been built at Vicary’s Field allotments using local chestnut and larch, neither chemically treated.

Both timbers have naturally long lives and their production safeguards jobs in the south Devon economy.

Installation was carried out by volunteers with Green Futures Newton Abbot, a community group launched a year ago by residents Andrew Rothery and Simon Heath.

The pair intend to marry green issues with wellbeing and social cohesion by encouraging individuals to care for their neighbourhood.

‘This project is part of a longer term environmental management programme, we want to engage local people in looking after their surroundings and help Newton Abbot become more environmentally friendly,’ said Andrew.

‘One of our aspirations is to work with people around relationships and communication skills. ‘People have a lot of feelings about what is going on with our environment and we’re determined to bring that into the process.

‘This is about more than building a fence and in our fast-paced society sometimes that can get lost. The town council has been really supportive and we both think there are lots of opportunities moving forward.’

The work was commissioned by Newton Abbot Town Council which owns the allotments.

Ward member Cllr Mike Hocking said: ‘Andrew and his mates came up and wanted to do something and I’ve fully supported them from the word go, giving them some of my district community fund to help them set up,’ he said.

‘It’s an important issue, we really do need to be looking after the environment. The allotment needed a new fence and using this local chemical-free timber is one way of demonstrating our commitment.’

Town Clerk Phil Rowe defended the £1,200 cost of the fence, slightly higher than had he bought treated timber from a national supplier

‘It’s local and sustainable, everyone’s a winner,’ he said.

‘It will have an aesthetic appeal too, this is a statement of what can be done.

‘What’s not to like about all the emotional elements, and we’ve got a practical solution.

‘It’s a no-brainer.’