ACTION GROUP FORMED TO SAVE MONASTERY

10.54.32am BST (GMT +0100) Mon 3rd Sep 2007

At a meeting of local residents, to which Councillors Ruth Pentney and Ian Doggett were invited, it was agreed to form an action group to help save the Monastery on Berry Road in Paignton.

The Monastery is in the Clifton with Maidenway ward, which the two Councillors represent on Torbay Council. The Monastery is on Torbay Council's 'Asset Disposal List' and is in danger of immediate disposal.

Following the meeting, Councillor Ian Doggett said:

"Local people are very concerned that the Monastery will be sold off. It was one of our main local issues during the recent elections. The Paignton Preservation Society is also worried about the situation, especially as it is a place of local historical interest. We will be working with residents to fight to save the Monastery, and will consult them over its future."

Councillor Ruth Pentney said:

"Selling off this building means selling off part of Paignton's history. Judging by the response of local people, they are against such a community asset being flogged off to the highest bidder. It would also go against current Government policy, as the Government are trying to encourage community centres.

"Asset stripping this building would only be in the interests of the Conservative Mayor and his Conservative colleagues."

If anyone would like to be involved in the action group, please contact Councillor Doggett on 07814 306224 or Councillor Pentney on 07905 512136.