Barnstaple Foodbank seeks significant move into former Shopmobility Centre
The move could happen
Northern Devon’s busiest foodbank could be on the move to a more accessible and larger premises with space for one-to-one support and debt advice.
The Barnstaple branch, one of seven in the district, needs to relocate from St Johns Community Centre near Tesco in Rose Lane as the building is in a poor state of repair and is due for a roof renovation.
It is proposing to move into the empty Shopmobility Centre adjacent to Barnstaple Bus Station and has submitted a planning application to North Devon Council.
The centre was run by Go North Devon and loaned wheelchairs and scooters to people with mobility problems but closed in 2023.
Planning documents say that the building’s proximity to the bus station and town centre would make it far easier for townspeople and those in the surrounding area to seek help.
It would also facilitate volunteer recruitment and retention.
The building’s entrance was “in a very discreet location and would attract little attention from the general public.”
The designated parking area would provide the space necessary for delivery vans from the foodbank’s main warehouse in Bideford.
Client experience is expected to improve due to the layout and larger floor area of the Shopmobility building as the St Johns premises was “somewhat cramped and awkward”.
In addition the building had two offices where staff could discuss clients’ needs with them in a private space and “would be an ideal setting for a Citizens Advice advisor, who could directly address clients’ problems in key areas such as debt, benefits and housing”.
In 2025/26 foodbank parcels gave meals to 2722 adults and 1284 children in Barnstaple. This is 41.3% of the total provided by Northern Devon Foodbank which is run by trustees and 180 volunteers.
North Devon Council will determine the application at a future date.