TEIGNBRIDGE Council says it has received 150 representations in response to its legal notice about disposing of open spaces.

The outcry to the shock public notice has prompted criticism about the way it has been handled.

And it has sparked a raft of petitions calling for spaces to be protected.

The district council says it has received about 150, a petition with just over 100 signatures and it is aware of an online petition with around 1,300 signatures.

A spokesman said: ‘As part of any asset transfer, the council must comply with relevant legislation, which requires the advertisement of any proposed disposal of public open space for a minimum period of 14 consecutive days.

‘In this case, the notice was published on 28 May, providing the public with 21 days to submit their views.

‘The publication of legal notices is a routine and essential part of the asset transfer process. It ensures transparency and provides the community with an opportunity to comment on proposed changes.

‘We welcome the strong level of public interest in this matter. All representations will be carefully reviewed before any final decisions are made.

‘The council remains committed to keeping residents informed and will provide updates as the process progresses.’

The assets included in the notices are: Cromwell Way, Bovey Tracey; Palace Meadow, Chudleigh; Morningside, Dawlish; Heath Close, Heath Hill, Prince Rupert Way and Naseby Drive, Heathfield; and Ashburton Road and Courtenay Park, Newton Abbot

Newton Abbot Town Council has said it is ‘acutely aware’ of the amount of concern regarding the future of Courtenay Park, one of a number of public spaces listed, and the Figure of Eight Park.

A spokesman said: ‘We have opened talks with Teignbridge Council to explore a deal that would secure public ownership.

‘Although the details have yet to be determined we are confident that a settlement can be reached that will secure the future of the parks for public use. We will ensure that any arrangement has the public’s interest at heart.’

Mayor Cllr Louise Cooke said: ‘The town council recognises the importance of green spaces in terms of physical and mental wellbeing – as well as biodiversity.

‘Rest assured that the two councils are in ongoing discussions about how best to preserve public open spaces for the benefit of the residents of Newton Abbot.’

There was particular anger over the short time available to respond to the notice.

Teignbridge deputy leader Cllr David Palethorpe, Executive Member for Economy, Estates and Major Projects said: ‘I apologise for any confusion caused by the recent legal notices, which may have been interpreted as suggesting otherwise.

‘I understand the strength of feeling around this issue, and I would like to reassure residents that there are no plans to develop any of these sites.

‘The aim is to safeguard these green spaces and community assets for the future. Your parks will still be your parks.

‘The current legal process is simply a necessary step to enable potential asset transfers.’

Newton Abbot councillor Jackie Fry said Courtenay Park was a ‘highly significant public amenity’

She said: ‘It is my firm view that the disposal of this space—whether in whole or in part, or in any manner which would diminish its public value—would represent a failure to adequately safeguard an important community asset.’