ABSTRACT
River Dart. A further mixed-use development with affordable housing is planned as one of a number of sites included in an ‘Enquiry by Design’ masterplan promoted by the town council, supported by South Hams District Council. Totnes’ reputation as the ‘capital of New Age chic’ makes it seem superficial but this is a serious place seeking sustainable solutions to global challenges. The town has created an ethos of creative mutuality, based on a strong philosophy, but also the ethos is commercial and practical. Initiatives include the local currency the Totnes Pound and the Totnes Healthy Futures Project promoting local food production and wellbeing. Fruit and nut trees have been planted and photovoltaic panels installed on homes and public buildings. Indeed, the town is full of practical community-based action as part of a ‘transition’ to a low-carbon future. If it sounds rather worthy, it isn’t; in Totnes the serious business of saving the planet is mixed with fun and celebration. It is this that makes Totnes important. Transition Towns may be a work in progress, but progress there certainly has been. The citizens of Totnes have embarked on a journey that may yet provide the route map for more of us to create a sustainable future.
