Town centre properties in Barnstaple and Ilfracombe can benefit from free pre-application planning advice as part of a new scheme being introduced by North Devon Council.

The council will be allowing free initial enquiries for commercial use and mixed use developments for a 12-month period from 22 September 2025.

It is hoped the scheme will help encourage investment and development in the towns' high streets, as well as reduce the number of vacant units.

By waiving the fee for initial planning advice, the council hopes to make it easier for businesses and developers to explore the potential of a property without the initial financial commitment.

Enquiries are accepted from properties in Barnstaple and Ilfracombe's town centres. Pure residential schemes are not included.

Councillor Malcolm Prowse, Lead Member for Regeneration, Economic Development and Planning at North Devon Council, said: "Our high streets are at the heart of our communities and we want them to remain vibrant and cherished places for everyone, even as people's shopping habits change.

"This is a fantastic opportunity to get valuable planning advice at no cost and to help us work towards a bright future for our high streets. We hope that by introducing this scheme, businesses can feel empowered to discover what they can achieve with a property."

For more information about the scheme, email planning@northdevon.gov.uk

Information about the council's pre-application service, including charges, can be found on its website.