Martin Redfern

Martin Redfern is Exeter Observer’s editor and a director of its publisher Exeter Observer Limited.

He writes many of our news stories and features, leads on investigations and maintains the Exeter Observer website.

Martin holds a masters degree in Journalism with distinction at Birkbeck, University of London.

He is an accredited UK press card holder and a member of the Chartered Institute of Journalists and the Society of Editors.

Stories by Martin Redfern

Our Land documentary film poster crop

SATURDAY 25 APRIL TO THURSDAY 14 MAY 2026

Our Land

Documentary exploring the right to roam campaign for access to the countryside.

EXETER PHOENIX

Centre for Cities Outlook 2026 chart comparing best and worst performers on economic growth and living standards since 2013

Centre for Cities finds Exeter economic growth and living standards performance among worst in country’s 63 largest places

Council leader Phil Bialyk celebrates rapid Exeter population rise but fails to mention think-tank findings on falling disposable incomes, declining living standards, low wages and unaffordable housing – or impact of student numbers on population figures.

Phil Bialyk speaking at Exeter City Council 13 January 2026 Guildhall meeting

Exeter City Council leader Phil Bialyk hides behind flimsy CEO capacity claims to contrive local elections cancellation

Labour councillors plumb new depths to cling to power – and personal financial gain – as government-backed contempt for democracy enables seven of eight executive members to avoid ballots in their wards until council abolition in 2028.

Devon County Council confirms plan to sell 1.5 acre Matford huts County Hall plot for redevelopment

Devon County Council has confirmed it intends to dispose of a 1.5 acre plot in the grounds of County Hall despite the submission of 180 objections in two rounds of public consultation.

Royal Clarence Hotel redevelopment to go ahead without affordable housing

Exeter City Council has accepted extensive historic fabric damage and foregone a £2.4 million affordable housing contribution to enable the redevelopment of the Royal Clarence Hotel site as luxury flats and commercial space.

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