Design work and feasibility studies were undertaken in the early part of the year. Architect’s sketch designs for the proposed school and community buildings were discussed with school and community representatives; the Devon Association for Renewable Energy carried out pre-feasibility work on renewable energy options; and a Viability Appraisal was prepared by Head Projects (Project Managers).

An Exhibition of amended proposals, through the use of a scale model, PowerPoint presentation and paper plans, was held over a weekend in July 2007. This drew an attendance of around 110 people. Comments made during the Exhibition were then considered by the design team and where appropriate and possible have been taken into account in the design of the final scheme.

In August an independent Local Housing Needs Survey was conducted by the Community Council of Devon. Survey forms were delivered to all households in the parish and to people living elsewhere but with a connection with the parish who were known to have a wish to return to live in the parish.

In November Devon County Council’s Executive considered a report on the High Bickington project and agreed that [subject to certain specified conditions] approval be given to:

1. the sale of the County Council’s land and property required for the project to the High Bickington CPT at a nominal value;
2. provision being made in the capital programme for the Council’s share of infrastructure costs, currently estimated at £850,000;
3. provision being made for a cash flow grant of £100,000;
4. confirmation of a grant of £100,000 to assist with planning costs.

The Design Team met for the first time in December with a view to drawing up a detailed planning application for the revised scheme.