The district council’s proposed relocation from Sidmouth moved a step forward this week after authority leaders unanimously backed the move.

The green light from East Devon District Council’s (EDDC) cabinet was the first of three hurdles the project must clear before it can proceed.

Yesterday’s (Wednesday) meeting heard from EDDC’s deputy chief executive, Richard Cohen, who said that all other options had been considered - including staying in Sidmouth - but moving represented the best value for council tax payers.

Members of two council watchdogs will scrutinise the proposals tonight (Thursday) ahead of a final vote on March 25.

See the full story in this week’s Herald.