With a selection of Exeter Observer stories from the past twelve months to keep you ticking over during the summer recess.
NEWS & ANALYSIS
Devon and Cornwall PCC defies Police and Crime Panel to appoint former Torbay colleague as deputy
Police and Crime Commissioner Alison Hernandez announced decision to hire Mark Kingscote on same day panel voted against appointment because ‘candidate does not meet the minimum requirements of the post’. Full story here.
Musgrave Row pedestrian zone marred by moving traffic offences
Survey suggests 30,000 prohibited private cars pass through street each year as a result of confusing signage, inconsistent restrictions and lack of enforcement. Full story here.
Devon & Cornwall Police inspection finds force underperforming in half of areas assessed
His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary Fire and Rescue Services has ‘serious concerns’ over investigations management and says force still needs to reduce response times despite ‘significant efforts to improve’. Full story here.
24 STORIES FOR THE 2024 SUMMER RECESS
The Exeter Observer team is taking a short break from publishing over the summer recess to carry out essential website maintenance and development work.
We’ve picked 24 stories from the past twelve months to keep you ticking over until our return in September. More details here.
Exeter Observer is owned and funded by its readers instead of remote shareholders or individuals beholden to corporate advertisers or those in power.
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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.
Five-day hospital doctors strike follows failed talks on pay and training provision
British Medical Association calls thirteenth round of industrial action in ongoing dispute with the government.
Exeter homeless death rate highest among English cities featured in annual Museum of Homelessness campaign charity report
21 people died while homeless in Exeter in 2024, nearly three times as many as previous year, but council says nothing despite report publication during city homeless awareness week.
Heavitree Road police station student accommodation and “co-living” scheme consultation extended
Developers revise application for full planning permission for 813-bed seven-block complex submitted in May as similar proposals proliferate across city centre.
Unique retro games arcade to create new Sidwell Street venue after long search
Boneyard arcade seeking permission to change use of empty Brighthouse retail unit after making way for “co-living” block at previous Red Lion Lane location.
On Our Radar
EVERY OTHER WEDNESDAY
Exeter Stories
In-depth audio interviews with individuals from organisations and initiatives across the city.
PODCAST
SUNDAY 23 NOVEMBER 2025
Winter Fore Street Flea
Market selling vintage items, handmade craft, food and drink with live music from local artists returns for a winter edition.
FORE STREET
THURSDAY 27 NOVEMBER 2025
Reclaim the Night 2025
Annual protest against sexual violence and harassment of women and girls in public space.
