Stories by Leigh Curtis

2024-25 SEND overspend rises to £45.8m as government “safety valve” deal target breach doubles to £14.7m in two months
County council breaches Local Government Act by failing to publish budget documents in time for scrutiny and cabinet meetings and councillors complain about missing financial information and being “kept in the dark” about SEND delivery.

Exeter Business Improvement District wins ballot for third five-year term
Just under half of 670 businesses eligible to vote took part, 90% voting in favour of renewal.

St Petrock’s appeals for funds to support its work with rough sleepers
Exeter homelessness charity’s Christmas 2024 fundraising campaign features a short film depicting the fictional tale of a rough sleeper in the city’s streets.

Controversial Exeter bus lane changes approved after three and a half hour County Hall debate
Devon County Council claims £2.4 million “intelligent corridor” upgrades along Heavitree Road and Pinhoe Road routes could save up to “approximately four minutes” journey time and bring “economic benefit of around £2,150,000” each year.