Okehampton Town Council have a number of facilities and services which are provided for use by the general public, including the Charter Hall which can be rented for a wide variety of functions and events. The impressive Council Chamber is available for hire and may be used for civil ceremonies. The Committee Room is also available for hire for meetings. Wifi is available in all rooms.
The town of Okehampton is situated on the northern edge of Dartmoor in West Devon. Okehampton is an ancient town and was initially settled in the Bronze Age. It lies at the confluence of the East and West Okement Rivers from which is takes its name. Okehampton has been described as the walking centre of Dartmoor. It is also popular with cyclists and walkers taking the Granite Way, a beautiful trail from Okehampton to Lydford.
The town has many attractions including the spectacular ruins of Okehampton Castle which date back to Norman times and the beautiful expansive parkland at Simmons Park with leisurely river side walks, ornamental gardens and a Swiss style chalet, multi sports facilities and playing areas for all ages as well as the Parklands Leisure Centre. The impressive tower of St James Chapel (15C) dominates the main street which in times gone by was the Old London Road lined with coaching inns which can still be seen today. The Town Hall, a handsome building with granite facade built in 1685 adds a touch of elegance to the town centre which also boasts a number of vibrant shopping arcades as well as the acclaimed Museum of Dartmoor Life.
The Town Hall in Fore Street houses the Council Offices which are on the ground floor and fully accessible. A lift is available for anyone needing to use it to access the Council Chamber and meeting room on the first floor of the building.
Good News - The Council's Grant Scheme for this financial year has reopened as there is a small amount of funding left in the budget.
Local not-for-profit groups and organisations who have not already received a grant from the council during this financial year and invited to apply for a grant of up to £300 to assist with projects and initiatives that benefit the residents of Okehampton.
Applications must be received by 31st January for consideration by the Policy & Resources Committee on 2nd March 2026.
Further information can be found on the grant page of the website or obtained from the Town Hall
Okehampton Neighbourhood Plan
Following failure of the joint Okehampton Town and Hamlets Parish Councils Neighbourhood Plan (NP) Okehampton Town Council has agreed to commence a new NP.
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Allotments
Allotments in Okehampton are owned and managed by Okehampton United Charity and queries relating to them should be directed to the Charity who can be contacted by phone on 07715 621480 or email clerk@okehamptoncharities.org.uk.
Public Space Protection Order for Dog Control - Simmons Park
In 2021 WDBC updated their Public Space Protection Order for Dog Control following a consultation period in 2020 when the Town Council requested the thoughts of residents. Okehampton Town Council has reviewed the Order and the implications for the control of dogs within its outdoor spaces and from 1st April 2021 the following change will come into force and bring Simmons Park in line with the Order:
From 1st April 2022 dogs will be required to be on a lead in the formal garden area of Simmons Park. This is the area on the Chalet/pond side of the river. Full details can be downloaded, obtained from the office or by emailing townclerk@okehampton.gov.uk.
Download details of the Public Space Protection Order for Dog Control - Simmons Park
CCTV
There are currently 10 closed circuit television (CCTV) cameras within the town and Simmons Park. These are used to help tackle crime and antisocial behaviour, and to keep members of the public safe.
Torbay Council monitor and manage the system on behalf of the Town Council.
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