Stories that explore key issues behind the headlines

Council to sell part of Grace Road Fields for heating plant and annexe rest for Water Lane redevelopment
New Exeter Local Plan “strategic mixed use” housing policy allocation to supersede planned campsite and outdoor event space, woodland planting and new canal basin at fifteen acre ex-playing field in Riverside Valley Park.

Revised Water Lane redevelopment plans submitted for outline approval
Application for up to 980 dwellings and up to 320 student bedspaces with 40,000m2 of other uses on ex-industrial site between railway embankment and Exeter Ship Canal obfuscates numerous key issues.

Plan to convert language school to nursery tests credibility of city council active travel policy
Exeter Academy sits near top of steep hill 250 feet above city, far from accessible bus and rail routes, but developer claims local plan compliance in ‘demonstrably sustainable location’ which is ‘conducive to sustainable modes of travel’.

Exeter bucks national trend as Labour support falls 6% and party loses vote share in all but one ward
Independent group, Greens and LibDems all take seats and Conservatives increase share in four wards as Labour stays in control of council after close call in Mincinglake & Whipton, holds in key battlegrounds and third Topsham win.
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