This information was sourced from the Torridge District Council Facebook page.
The Pier House in Westward Ho! hosted the latest meeting of the North Devon and Torridge Maritime Network last week, bringing together more than 50 representatives from across the region’s maritime, business, and voluntary sectors. The event was organised and sponsored by ND+ and supported by Torridge District Council and North Devon Council.
Attendees heard a range of updates, including from Rob Braddick on the coastal defence work at the Pier House and the restoration of Jane Hannah McDonald III — an Appledore lifeboat with a proud WWII history. Fiona Henderson (ND+) also shared progress on the construction of the Appledore Maritime Innovation Centre as well as highlighting wider maritime funding opportunities available across the region. Maritime innovation applications were discussed, including low carbon marine technologies, marine autonomy and defence applications.
A strong focus on skills and future talent ran throughout the session. Cognition Learning CIC outlined their exciting STEM-led LEGO League plans for schools across North Devon and Torridge. Navantia UK’s Appledore Shipyard apprentice, Jack Partridge, gave a personal and insightful account of his apprenticeship journey. Updates were also provided on school initiatives from SS Freshspring in partnership with Navantia UK, as well as developments in apprenticeships and the recent merger from North Devon College.
Additional contributions came from EV Parts, Clearworks Coaching, OceanJet, and the Bideford and River Torridge Heritage Harbour, showcasing the breadth of activity across the maritime ecosystem. No sea swim this time—but the session ended with a refreshing, breezy walk along the SW coast path!
