New Bovey Tracey primary school plan moves forward, but flood concerns remain

Bovey Tracey could have a new 420-pupil primary school before the end of the decade, if further survey work supports the current plans.

The proposed school would be built on land owned by Bovey Tracey Town Council off Le Molay-Littry Way, and, if it goes ahead, would replace the town’s current 280-pupil primary school on Abbey Road.

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The idea has been discussed for several years, but has moved forward following an initial feasibility study funded by Teignbridge District Council and carried out by Devon County Council.

That study found the proposal could be viable, but confirmed that further surveys are needed before any decision can be made. 

Further surveys, which are expected to take around a year, would gather detailed ecological information and provide a clearer estimate of costs.

In a statement to the town council, Teignbridge District Council said the work so far does not commit either council to funding or delivering the project.

“The completion of this initial feasibility design work does not act as a commitment by Teignbridge District Council and Devon County Council to fund nor deliver this project, however you will be kept up to date on the progress of any such decision making.

“Delivering a new school is a long-term project. If the surveys, design, permissions, and funding can be secured, delivery of a school may be possible by 2029.”

Mayor of Bovey Tracey, Sheila Brooke, said the town was hopeful the next stage of work would support the plans.

“We’re keeping everything crossed that the next survey will deliver the results we want and allow Bovey Tracey to develop the primary school it needs.

“The site, if it can go ahead, would also provide additional outdoor facilities for the whole community so this is a really important project for our town” she said.

ABOVE: The proposed school would be built on land owned by Bovey Tracey Town Council off Le Molay-Littry Way (Image: Google Maps)

Cllr Brooke also thanked both councils for their involvement so far and said the town hoped progress could be secured ahead of any changes linked to local government reorganisation.

She added: “We’re not counting our chickens but are excited for a positive outcome and we’ll keep residents updated as and when any new information reaches us.”

If a new school is built, the existing Abbey Road site could potentially be used for housing for older people, with Cllr Brooke adding the town council was keen to see the land used in a way that benefits local residents.

She said: “We are very keen to see it put to a use that meets Bovey’s needs and not those of a commercial developer. That’s a message we’ll repeat loud and clear for as long as it takes.”

The proposal has prompted a mixed response from residents, with some welcoming the possibility of a long-awaited new primary school, while others have raised concerns about the proposed location.

Several residents have questioned whether the site is suitable due to flooding risk, arguing that a new school should not be built on land they believe could be vulnerable in the future. 

Others have said they support the idea of a new school in principle, but want alternative locations to be properly considered before any decisions are made.

Some residents, however, have said the project is “long overdue” and have expressed hope that the surveys will lead to a positive outcome for the town.