Traders have now reached deals with East Devon District Council for the rental of grassed areas for outdoor seating in the Strand in Exmouth.

It comes after the businesses objected to a 'massive hike' in rental costs to thousands of pounds for the grassed areas - after they had cost just £100 in 2021.

Now, deals of as yet undisclosed amounts have been struck between the traders and the council.

George Nightingale, owner of restaurant 'Spoken' on the Strand, said on social media: "We've all reached mutually agreeable rents, we can now afford to be out here, we can employ more staff, we can just ensure the vibrancy of the town.

"Let's have a great summer, and let's get back to business and doing what we should be doing, and that's providing good food and good drink for you all."

Mr Nightingale also thanked Simon Jupp MP, several councillors, and the public for their support.

East Devon District Council has been contacted for comment.

The council yesterday issued a statement saying it had offered a new rate: "EDDC has always wanted to enable the continued use of The Strand for hospitality businesses to place tables and chairs on council-owned land and to continue the café culture/alfresco environment that has proven so popular.

"The council had been seeking a fair commercial rent and had hoped the traders in this space would have entered into constructive negotiation with our agents as they had been encouraged to do.

"However in light of the unique circumstances of this space with pavement licences also issued by Devon County Council a refreshed proposal has now been made to traders for the 2022 and 2023 seasons (April 1 to 30 September each year).

"EDDC will be embarking this summer on a significant and exciting piece of work around place making in Exmouth with the recent appointment of a dedicated Project Manager. This work will include extensive consultation and engagement on a range of projects and opportunities across the town including The Strand and how we can further improve the offering.

"We hope that the traders will engage constructively in those discussions when they take place."

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