What is ‘one of the largest economic development projects in the South Hams’ – and why has no-one heard much about it?

Why did South Hams District Council enter into a legally binding agreement with multi-million pound risks and liabilities over a year ago  without asking its tax-paying residents?

Is anyone pulling the strings of our councils and to what end?

And with significant investment into a partnership with private companies whilst council services are cut, what do residents really get in return?

The Plymouth & South Devon Freeport is raising significant concern, not least because of the lack of clarity on its arrangement, integrity and economic effectiveness.

The public have been given a short time in which to express their opinion on South Hams strategic plan (which includes reference to working with the Plymouth and South Devon Freeport) through a public consultation, yet unbiased information is very hard to come by.

Chaired by George Monbiot and with a panel of politicians and citizens, this session is designed to help residents in the South Hams to make informed comment.

We hope to address a range of questions including:
What exactly IS a freeport? Why does the Plymouth and South Devon freeport encompass such a large area, including Dartmoor? What opportunities and threats does it present for our region? There are conflicting views as to the desirability or otherwise of these deregulated, tax-free zones and the official information on them is often opaque while media coverage is either enthusiastic or mistrustful. Some see the freeport as a fantastic opportunity for prosperity and jobs. Others fear that  the combination of tax breaks and deregulation threatens important rights and protections for people and the environment. Others worry about the scope for crime and corruption or about the agenda of politicians looking to turn England into Singapore-by-Sea.  

Where does the truth lie? 

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