Volunteers rally to renovate vandalised Babbacombe Downs shelter

The St Marychurch & District Community Partnership are about to embark on the renovation and repair of an age-old structure on Babbacombe Downs which has become the target of vandalism and misuse by disrespectful individuals.

The shelter on Babbacombe Downs has provided local people and countless numbers of tourists, an opportunity to sit down and take in the fantastic views of the sea and surrounding area for over 100 years, however, in recent months this quaint building has become the target of vandalism and misuse rendering it ‘out of bounds’ due to being unsafe. The windows have been smashed, graffiti applied and the enclosed seating areas used as toilets.

The damage caused has been the subject of much discussion by local residents and the St. Marychurch & District Community Partnership Group and at a recent meeting it was agreed that something must be done to restore this iconic building to its former glory.

Local councillors were recently awarded £4,500 as part of a Councillors Community Fund, its intended use being to make enhancements or improvements within their wards. Among other suggestions in Babbacombe, St.Marychurch, Plainmoor & Maidencombe, the shelter was of large importance and the CP Group worked with their local ward councillors to ensure monies would be available for all the necessary materials needed to ensure works could commence as soon as possible.

Within weeks, a plan is underway to begin the restoration and redecoration project and will see the shelter on Babbacombe Downs repaired & repainted during the week of 1st – 4th June. Fencing around the shelter will be put in place while the work is safely carried out by a group of skilled volunteers and the good news is that the works will be completed in time for summer visitors to see it fully restored and ready for use.

Chris Davies, Chairperson of the local Community Partnership Group commented: “Babbacombe Downs is a beautiful part of the ward and old structures like the shelter here should be maintained and preserved. Seeing it fall into disrepair has been quite disheartening and we’re pleased we have been successful in securing the funds and some very welcome volunteers who will make it possible for local residents and tourists to enjoy it once again.”