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Exeter Approves 800+ Student & Co-Living Units
9 Dec
Summary
- Over 800 student and co-living units approved for Exeter city centre gateway site.
- Development replaces former police station and court on Heavitree Road.
- Project approved despite concerns over height and impact on local residents.
Plans for a significant development, including over 800 student and co-living units, have been approved for a prominent gateway site in Exeter. Located on Heavitree Road, the project will replace the former police station and magistrates' court with seven blocks of housing, reaching up to six storeys. This approval came after previous similar proposals were rejected due to concerns about the area's character.
The Exeter City Council's planning committee granted permission for the development, which comprises 399 student flats and 414 co-living studios. The co-living units are designed as rental studios for young professionals, offering shared amenities. Developers highlighted the site will be car-free, with ample bicycle storage, and 20% of units designated as affordable.
While the development promises to address rising demand for student and co-living accommodation, some local residents expressed worries about the project's scale, height, and potential loss of light. Councilors were advised to prioritize housing delivery, as the city currently struggles to meet its housing targets under national planning policies.
