The work in Crediton follows a 15-year campaign for alterations

The work in Crediton follows a 15-year campaign for alterations.

The aim is to create a town square which will become a real focal point for the community and a venue for farmers' markets and open-air theatre.

Phase one will involve building a new fire station at Charlotte Street, with new facilities for the local Army Cadet Force.

Once that is complete, the existing fire station in Market Street will be demolished to make way for the new town square.

'Real' confidence

Part of the car park in Parliament Street will be developed into new homes and business units.

Councillor Jane Campbell, Chairman of Mid Devon District Council's Community Services Committee, said: "This is great news for Crediton.

"The project shows real confidence in the future of the town and will encourage new businesses to set up there. "

The town has faced a number of economic and social challenges over the past few years, including foot -and- mouth disease in 2001.

This led to the town's successful application for inclusion in the South West RDA-led Market & Coastal Towns Initiative.