Martin Redfern

Martin Redfern is editor of Exeter Observer 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 is an accredited UK press card holder, a member of the Chartered Institute of Journalists and the Society of Editors and holds a masters degree in Journalism with distinction at Birkbeck, University of London.

Stories by Martin Redfern

Pinhoe community hub planning approval granted for second time

The city council has approved a planning application for a new community hub building at Station Road playing fields in Pinhoe for the second time following the lapse of the previous permission that was granted in February 2020.

Exeter City Living holds Glasshouse Lane redevelopment consultation

Exeter City Living is holding a public consultation on its Glasshouse Lane redevelopment plans, which have been revised following public feedback.

St Thomas Library demolition plans withdrawn

Exeter Estates Holdings, a property development company that is controlled by Tony Rowe, CEO and chairman of Exeter Chiefs, has withdrawn its application to demolish St Thomas Library and replace it with a block of thirteen flats following a public outcry in reaction to the plans.

South West Water owner increases dividend despite losses and fines

South West Water owner Pennon Group has increased its shareholder dividend by nearly 11% to £112 million despite making a pre-tax loss of £8.5 million and being fined £2.15 million after pleading guilty to thirteen environmental offences committed across Devon and Cornwall.

Exeter City Council member expenses total £409,000

Exeter City Council member’s allowances and expenses came to a total of £409,000 in the year to March 2023, with council leader Phil Bialyk claiming £28,400 and receiving regular gifts and hospitality at Sandy Park.

Closed doors at County Hall

Closed doors at County Hall for councillor conduct hearings

A survey of local authority approaches to standards committee hearings finds Devon County Council alone in imposing private determination of conduct complaints.

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