Budleigh group wants to buy fire station

It's going to auction

A redundant East Devon fire station is to be auctioned - and local people want to buy it.

Budleigh Salterton's fire station closed last year after a century of service. The town is now served by a modern facility between Budleigh Salterton and Exmouth. 

A group called the Budleigh Community Workshop wants to turn the centrally located building into their base. But it's thought they're going to need around £200,000 to realise their dream.

The good news is that they've broken the back of their target, with £150,000 of donations and pledges. It does mean there's £50,000 still to raise, through a crowdfunding campaign. With just days to go, they need another £9,000.

East Devon MP Simon Jupp is supporting the idea. He says: "I’m proud to support this project which is clearly backed by many people in Budleigh. It would be a big boost for the town and help bring people together to improve their skills and confidence. This is a brilliant opportunity and I hope the project is successful.”

Community Workshop trustee Marc Jobson says: “Budleigh Community Workshop will be a dedicated space for practical and creative activities, support and learning for all people in are community, especially those who may be felling lonely, isolated or anxious.”

The auction is on 10 September. To read more about these plans, or donate, go to www.crowdfunder.co.uk/budleigh-salterton-community-workshop-bid