I note the letter in your paper concerning Danby House and Exebank. These properties belong to Devon County Council and it is for them to decide on their use.

I and my officers at East Devon District Council were in discussion with Devon County Council to try to build a ‘Care Village’ on the site, in combination with adjacent land in our ownership.

Unfortunately, this fell through due to the economic situation. East Devon has left the door open for discussions and it is my view that it would be beneficial to Exmouth and both authorities if we developed all the land together.

I have to inform you that, due to the excellent work of officers at East Devon District Council housing department, we have spent �28,500 on ‘bed and breakfast’ accommodation so far this year, which is a very last resort.

East Devon works in partnership with housing associations, private landlords, ‘Night Stop’ and others, to do our best to help many people who are in a crisis situation and need a ‘roof over their head’. We have 29 households in temporary accommodation at the moment.

It is important to remember that East Devon is from The Exe to The Axe and includes the towns of Exmouth, Budleigh Salterton, Sidmouth, Seaton, Axminster, Honiton and Ottery St Mary.

Jill M Elson

EDDC Cabinet Member for

Sustainable Homes and Communities,

EDDC Member for Halsdon Ward,

23 Hazeldene Gardens, Exmouth.