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South West Water fined £2.15 million for environmental offences
Martin Redfern
South West Water has been fined £2.15 million and ordered to pay £280,000 costs after pleading guilty to thirteen environmental offences committed between July 2016 and August 2020 across Devon and Cornwall, the largest fine imposed for such offences in the region.
The company allowed toxic chemicals to escape into waterways on several occasions, causing significant environmental damage.
A single spill at Kilmington led to the deaths of thousands of fish in the River Axe, including protected species. It also pumped raw sewage into rivers and Sites of Special Scientific Interest.
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Princesshay seeks permission for outdoor market stalls for four months each year
Planning application follows shopping centre acquisition by Frasers Group which said it intended to enhance the shopping and leisure offer in Exeter city centre.
Honiton Road “Moor Exchange” retail park plans set for approval
Final revised proposals for 12,400 square metre “town centre facilities” with 376 car parking spaces in Honiton Road trigger another public consultation five years after Exeter City Council granted outline planning permission for development.
Exeter is for Everyone event counters anti-migrant city centre march
1,200-1,500 people participate in hope and unity march, outnumbering British Unity nationalists by more than ten to one as significant police presence maintains order except for few minor clashes.
St Petrock’s launches fundraising appeal as number of people sleeping rough in Exeter continues to rise
Campaign film underscores dedicated homelessness charity mission as demand for its support services grows.
Haven Banks retail park use extended as controversial build-to-rent development not expected in next five years
Bowling alley expansion and padel tennis facility to replace temporary evangelical church use of existing buildings as redevelopment decision notice still not published two years after Exeter City Council approved ultra-high density scheme.
Labour and Conservative councillors join forces to block Exeter city centre antisocial behaviour initiative
Rejection of voluntary and community sector calls for more inclusive response follows thirteen-year council failure to comply with legal duties under crime and disorder legislation in relation to Exeter Community Safety Partnership.
On Our Radar
SATURDAY 6 DECEMBER 2025
Magdalen Road Christmas Fair
Community-run market returns for thirteenth year with festive food, music and gifts.
MAGDALEN ROAD
SATURDAY 13 DECEMBER 2025 TO SUNDAY 4 JANUARY 2026
The Wintertime Hotel
An immersive family-friendly production by Theatre Alibi and Angel Exit Theatre.
EMMANUEL HALL
SUNDAY 14 TO SUNDAY 28 DECEMBER 2025
Ernie and the Sea of Ice
Quirk Theatre presents a festive family-friendly adventure set in the snowy South Pole.
