BUDE Climate Partnership has announced it is pausing projects after Bude-Stratton Town Council stepped back from the organisation.

The Resilient Bude project is undergoing a temporary pause until mid-March, pending the approval of a new lead partner.

A BCP spokesperson said: “This temporary pause in operations is a procedural necessity whilst we regroup after the recent BSTC decision, and it is in no way a reflection of the quality of work being delivered. It’s disappointing to pause progress for now, when almost all our six projects are successfully under way and achieving their goals, and the final one is on the cusp of its launch.

“The situation also presents immediate challenges for the many suppliers who are involved in the projects, and we are actively working with them to ensure continuity and minimise disruption.

Resilient Bude is a suite of six projects designed to raise awareness of the impacts of climate change and help prepare the community and its businesses for the uncertainties that the changing climate is bringing. The work includes a sustainable tourism project, a community growing scheme, energy advice, a library of things, community storytelling and community engagement facilitation.

The spokesperson continued: “We also would like to take this opportunity to thank BSTC for their role as lead partner. The partnership is now able to explore new ways forward and believes this transition will ultimately be for the best. We acknowledge the short-term pause is not ideal, but we are optimistic about the long-term benefits.

“We also understand that recent events have raised questions and concerns within the community. The delivery team and ten remaining partners acknowledge these and remain committed to working openly with local people, businesses, and stakeholders to find the best way forward.”