A business owner in Kingsbridge has collected old photos of Kingsbridge to protest the proposed plans for the Quayside.

Hazel Donovan, who runs Donovan’s on Fore Street, said: “I was fortunate enough to grow up in Kingsbridge and spend very many happy hours on, in and around the estuary. It is a very special place and I would like to see future generations being able to enjoy the same opportunities as I had as a child.

“What is proposed will undoubtedly limit access to an area which is currently free to everyone, able or disabled, rich or poor, local or visitor.

“My family are one of the oldest trading families in Kingsbridge and since 1873 we have seen (and weathered) many changes to the town but nothing has taken away our unique character and identity.

“I fear that the proposed development is a step too far and will destroy the very reason why people choose to live here and why visitors come, year on year.”

Hazel has worked with the Cookworthy Museum, to dig out old photos of the Kingsbridge Fair, which would be under threat if the proposals go ahead.

One image dates back to 1897 - which could be part of the Jubilee Celebrations and features a giant champagne bottle in the background. Other show the floral dance and children dressed up the the carnival, ranging in dates from 1900-1986.

Hazel has also been handing out hard copies of the SHDC questionnaire to her customers and those who find getting online difficult, and then handing them into Kingsbridge Town Council at Quay House.

Hazel continued: “It is not in keeping with the rest of the town – for example, why suggest 6-8 storey buildings in one of the most sensitive locations we have when there aren’t high rise buildings anywhere else in town?

“There are so many reasons why I cannot support the scheme as it stands and I hope that faced with so much local opposition and concerns, SHDC will think again – and this time find out what we want first before spending yet more of our money on unsuitable proposals.

“I understand that through Kingsbridge Town Council it would be possible to create low-cost housing with priority for locals without the necessity for the Quayside development so let’s concentrate on making that happen.”

Although the strength of feeling in the town seems to be against the proposals, there are some who would welcome the plans. You can view and comment on the proposed plans until Sunday, July 23, and you can find them here: https://www.southhams.gov.uk/kingsbridgequayside

Thanks to Cookworthy Museum who found the photos and created the captions for them. Check out our Facebook page for more photos we couldn't fit on the website!