Features
Stories that explore key issues behind the headlines
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.
Council to mothball Exeter City Living Vaughan Road flats after first phase leaving £2.75m groundworks fenced off
Twelve year-old plan to rebuild remaining pre-war Laing’s Easiform council houses in Buddle Lane estate to be seen through to completion instead, as undelivered local housing promises finally collide with reality.
Council confirms Royal Clarence Hotel restoration start date still not set
Plans to renew historic building destroyed in October 2016 fire approved nearly two years ago following failure of first reconstruction project but developer has yet to discharge any consent conditions and financial viability of plans remains in doubt.
24 stories for the 2024 summer recess
Catch up with a curated selection of Exeter Observer stories from the past twelve months while the team takes a short break from publishing to carry out essential website maintenance and development work.
Musgrave Row pedestrian zone marred by moving traffic offences
Survey suggests 30,000 prohibited private cars pass through street each year as a result of confusing signage, inconsistent restrictions and lack of enforcement.
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.