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Exploring a greener future for the Newhay in Dawlish, with new habitats, outdoor learning opportunities and spaces for everyone to enjoy
Exploring a greener future for the Newhay in Dawlish, with new habitats, outdoor learning opportunities and spaces for everyone to enjoy
Turn the Tide is working with SocieTree to develop a vision for the Newhay, a green space next to St Gregory's Church in Dawlish.
The proposal includes new microforests, a community orchard and wildflower areas, creating opportunities for wildlife, environmental education and community involvement.
These are early-stage plans, and we want local people to help shape what happens next.
Why the Newhay?
Why the Newhay?
Owned by the Diocese of Exeter, the Newhay has previously been leased by Teignbridge District Council. With its future management uncertain, local residents have come together, with support from Dawlish Town Council, to explore ways of protecting it as a community space.
Turn the Tide supports the Friends of the Newhay, a community group working to bring together local ideas, skills and resources, with the longer-term ambition of establishing a community-led social enterprise that could work with the Diocese to care for the land.
Our vision in numbers
Our vision in numbers
To support the Friends of the Newhay's ambitions for the site, Turn the Tide and SocieTree have developed a proposal to enhance biodiversity, create outdoor learning opportunities and provide a welcoming space for people and wildlife.
Figures are indicative and subject to consultation, funding and approval.
3,600 native trees
Across three proposed microforests.
590 m² of wildflowers
Four meadow areas supporting pollinators and wildlife.
16 fruit trees
Apples, pears and plums in a community orchard.
2 school microforests
Plus a smaller, accessible woodland learning area.
What could the Newhay look like?
What could the Newhay look like?
Microforests and outdoor learning
Three microforests would introduce native trees and shrubs, planted using the Miyawaki method. Two would involve local schools in planting and caring for the trees, while a smaller microforest would provide an accessible outdoor learning space.
A community orchard
Sixteen apple, pear and plum trees would create opportunities for fruit picking, seasonal activities and community involvement.
Wildflowers and wildlife
Four wildflower areas would introduce native plants suited to local conditions, providing food and habitat for pollinators and other wildlife.
Keeping the Newhay open
All existing trees, perimeter paths and open grassy areas would be retained, allowing people to continue enjoying the Newhay for walking, recreation and relaxation.
See the full plan:
See the full plan:
SocieTree - Dawlish - Newhay Concept Design 26_261022_112938.pptx
Working with Societree
Working with Societree
SocieTree is an environmental organisation that works with schools and communities to create microforests and inspire young people to connect with nature.
Through its My Wacky Forest initiative, SocieTree combines native tree planting with hands-on environmental education. The Newhay proposal builds on this approach, bringing together woodland, wildflowers and community spaces.
Have your say: Do you care about the Newhay?
Have your say: Do you care about the Newhay?
Friends of the Newhay is hosting a free community event on Saturday 14 November 2026, inviting local people to come together, celebrate the Newhay and share their hopes for its future.
Here, Turn the Tide and SocieTree will present their vision for the site and welcoming feedback from residents.
Visitors can enjoy live music, children's activities and refreshments, alongside opportunities to share memories and contribute ideas for the Newhay's future.
Saturday 14 November 2026 | St Gregory's Church, Dawlish
12:30pm: Community procession from Dawlish Lawn to the Newhay.
1pm–4pm: Community event, including music, children's activities and opportunities to share your ideas.
What happens next?
What happens next?
The proposals are at an early stage and will depend on community feedback, landowner agreement, funding and further planning.
To learn more about the wider community campaign or get involved, visit the Friends of the Newhay Facebook group.
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