Herald Express (Newton & Teign Edition)
Securing future of boatyard central to wider regeneration plans – developer
ANEW plan has been drawn up to revitalise a Totnes boatyard and create hundreds of jobs as the area around it is transformed into homes and a public plaza.
Baltic Wharf Developments Ltd – a joint venture between Acorn Property Group and TQ9 Partnership Ltd – has shared plans to revitalise the boatyard at Baltic Wharf, Totnes, including new and expanded marine workshops and office facilities.
The plans for the boatyard form part of a vision to create a vibrant and sustainable mixed-use development at Baltic Wharf, including new homes, a care home and a large public plaza, plus river and hillside walking routes.
The company said that securing the future of the boatyard is central to its proposals, which have been developed in close consultation with existing boatyard tenants.
Workshops and other facilities have been designed with built-in future proofing allowing for expansion and adaptability. Boat storage facilities and purpose-built workshops at wharf level, along with a new reception area/chandlery and marine office space above, are all part of the proposals. Acorn has agreed to offer a 25-year lease for the boatyard tenants, to secure their longterm future.
Edward Lewis, regional director at Acorn Property Group, speaking on behalf of Baltic Wharf Developments Ltd, said: “We recognise how important the boatyard is to the people of Totnes, the character of the town and to the livelihoods of those who work there. Modernising the boatyard so that it’s fit for the future has always been central to our plans to regenerate Baltic Wharf.
“Creating new workshops and business facilities will allow for the creation of up to 350 full-time jobs, compared to the 20 that exist at the site. We’ve met regularly with tenants there as our designs have evolved to ensure our plans meet their requirements both now and over years to come. We’re excited to have the opportunity to breathe new life into the boatyard, securing a sustainable future for this space.”
Martin Fletcher, yard manager at Baltic Wharf Boatyard, has lent his support to the scheme and said: “I have been involved with Baltic Wharf boatyard since 1997 working as a contractor, an employee in the workshops and now the yard manager. There have been many changes to the site over the years and many changes in the marine industry in general.
“The plans submitted by Acorn Property Group address the need for a wellbalanced site that secures the future of the boatyard. I wholeheartedly support this application.”
Steve Mittler, from TQ9 Partnership, said: “The site needs major investment to stop it becoming derelict and the plans submitted by Acorn Property Group address the need for a well-balanced site that secures the future of the boatyard.”
To view the planning application for Baltic Wharf go to https://southhams. planning-register.co.uk