Plymouth animal charity praised as land up for sale

A Plymouth animal charity has been recognised by a local Labour councillor. Councillor Daniel Steel is asking the next meeting of full council to join him in celebrating the work of Gables Farm Cats and Dogs Home.

The Plymstock Radford ward councillor is bringing the motion after it was revealed National Highways is selling a 0.3 acre grass verge at the entrance of Gables at Merafield Road, Plympton, sparking widespread concern over its future.

“Gables is a brilliant and much loved local charity in my ward,” said Cllr Steel, whose motion at full council on 25 November will be seconded by Ham ward councillor Kate Taylor.

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“Plymouth residents are rightly proud of their work caring for and rehoming dogs and cats from across Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and the Isles of Scilly. Gables are also an important partner of Plymouth City Council as they board the pets of Plymouth residents when ill in hospital and support the rehoming of stray pets.”

Cllr Steel has met the team at Gables and also written to the CEO of National Highways to express his concern about the sale. His motion also calls on all current and future local stakeholders to support the charity in its “vital” work caring for thousands of animals.

“The sale of the strip of land next to Gables’ premise is a serious concern for Gables, myself and the residents of Plymouth,” said Cllr Steel.

“Ensuring Gables can continue their work caring for thousands of animals is incredibly important, that’s why I’m hoping the whole council will back my motion so we can send a clear message about how much we value the charity’s work.”