TOP STORY
Exeter local elections to go ahead in May after government cancellation U-turn
Secretary of State Steve Reed withdraws decision following legal advice in face of Reform UK High Court challenge, leaving city council leader Phil Bialyk facing electoral oblivion. Read more here.
EXETER IN BRIEF
King George V playing field redevelopment begins
The redevelopment of King George V playing field by Exeter City Community Trust has begun after a scheme to install a full-size artificial football pitch with floodlighting, refurbish and extend a sports pavilion and expand its car park was approved by Exeter City Council last August. More here.
Midas collapse to leave £46 million debt unpaid
Debt amounting to £46 million – including £392,000 owed to former employees – will be left unpaid by Midas Construction Limited following its dissolution, according to documents filed at Companies House by its administrator. More here.
Storm damage prompts Bowling Green Marsh emergency works
Significant storm damage has prompted emergency works to shore up the bank separating the Exe estuary from the Bowling Green Marsh nature reserve at Topsham. More here.
City council approves Clarendon House student accommodation block
Exeter City Council has approved the replacement of Clarendon House on the corner of Western Way and Heavitree Road with a ten-storey 297-bed student accommodation block. More here.
Government to write off most of £200 million Devon SEND services deficit
The government has said it will write off 90% of the SEND services deficit accumulated by Devon County Council to the end of March this year. More here.
Fore Street developer seeks to convert Crankhouse Coffee basement to residential use
The developer of a scheme at 130 Fore Street is seeking to amend the design, height and layout of the building, which extends down West Street towards Grade I listed St Mary Steps church. More here.
ON OUR RADAR
Exeter Seed Swap 2026 // Positive Light Projects
Fourth annual event includes hands-on activities, soil testing and over 5,000 packets of seeds to share. More details here.
Two Short Nights // Exeter Phoenix
Short film festival returns with awards ceremony and more. More details here.
The People of Exeter // St Thomas Church Hall
An afternoon hosted by Love St Thomas focussed on Exeter’s historic multicultural character with talks, conversation and a community lunch. More details here.
From Haydn to The Highlands // St Nicholas Priory
The Orchard Cafe Quartet plays folk and classical music from Scandinavia and Scotland. More details here.
International Women’s Festival 2026 // Exeter Phoenix
A free one-day celebration with live music, dance, workshops, panel discussions and more. More details here.
