Stories that explore key issues behind the headlines
Australian multinational is biggest council lottery winner as 92% of local causes receive less than £500
Operator collects £26,000 and city council £16,000 in first nine months as public support for Exeter voluntary and community organisations turned into private profit.
Auditor broadens inquiry to include Exeter City Futures and ex-CEO secondment to liquidated company
More “significant weaknesses” found in city council governance and financial and performance management arrangements while St Sidwell’s Point valued at £7 million less than build cost and £370,000 ex-CEO final year pay and benefits confirmed.
£1+ million for Wonford community hub project development but £7 million build finance not yet found
City council presented £750,000 “feasibility proposal” as progression of existing plans despite having to start again after three years to cut costs, with Exeter City Living awarded £550,000 project contract.
£50 million county council 2024-25 service delivery cuts concealed by £93 million costs increases
Figures essentially unaffected by budget scrutiny process during which councillors sought details of where and how cuts would fall but received few proper answers.
Stagecoach South West posts largest losses in sector despite greatest growth in journey numbers
Lowest year on year revenue rise compounded by above average staffing costs increase as £2 bus fare cap continues to prop up passenger demand.
Liveable Exeter Placemaking Charter consultation skewed towards only one of five “core tools”
Private developers’ forum and other major components of new charter not mentioned in council communications, but transparency and new “culture of openness” to “help build trust in the planning system” emphasised throughout.