In response to unauthorised encampments at two of its leisure sites, Mid Devon District Council is installing new preventative measures at both Active Crediton and Active Cullompton.

Height barriers will be installed at both sites to help prevent unlawful vehicle access while still allowing regular users, such as leisure members, schools, and clubs, to continue accessing facilities.

Councillor Josh Wright, Cabinet Member for Service Delivery and Continuous Improvement said:

“We have looked at a number of different options and while there is no straightforward solution, our priority has been to find a balance between preventing unauthorised access while still ensuring our facilities remain accessible for those who use them legitimately. This includes school buses, clubs, and of course our loyal leisure members. We also need to make sure that emergency vehicles can access our sites when required. We completely understand the frustration our customers feel when they are unable to use our facilities, and we hope these measures will act as a strong deterrent to those looking to use our land without permission. Ultimately, we want to minimise disruption and keep our leisure services running smoothly.”

As part of these measures, low-level fencing has already been installed around the Cullompton site, and a new entry system will be introduced at both leisure centres to further support managed access.

These additional security arrangements form part of the Council’s ongoing work to protect its community facilities, while ensuring they remain accessible to those who rely on them.