Time is running out to make suggestions about a replacement for Seafield Gardens’ water feature

TIME is running out for residents to have their say on a new feature for Seaton’s Seafield Gardens.

They have until Friday, October 7, to send suggestions to East Devon District Council.

The plans is to find something to replace the large waterfall and fountain which has been broken for some time and reached the point where the authority cannot afford to maintain it and fix it when it breaks down.

Instead, its budget of �38,000, which was originally allocated to repair the water feature, will now be used to provide an exciting new feature for the area, which residents can help design and choose.

A spokesman said that as the area is designated as a garden, any proposal will need to be sympathetic to its surroundings, and it would also need to take into account future maintenance and restoration costs.

He said: “For example a skate park would not be appropriate at this location due to it being near residential flats. Uses for the area such as an enhanced picnic site, public performance amphitheatre, small cafe concession or similar would be suitable.”

People should put their ideas onpaper – including a picture if they wish – and send them to Communications, East Devon District Council, Knowle, Station Road, Sidmouth, EX10 8HL or e-mail: jbuckley@eastdevon.gov.uk .

They are asked to include their contact details so officials can get in touch if they need to find out more information.

Once all the proposals are in the council will check which ones fit the criteria and could be carried out within the budget. When there is a shortlist of eligible projects people will be asked to vote on which idea they want to happen.