UK: Plans have been submitted for the redevelopment of the former police station and magistrates’ court on Heavitree Road in Exeter, proposing more than 800 new homes in a mixed-use scheme for students and local residents.
The application outlines the demolition of the disused buildings to make way for 399 student units and 414 compact, self-contained apartments with access to shared communal facilities.
The revised proposal marks a significant redesign of a previous scheme that was rejected by Exeter City Council and later dismissed on appeal in early 2023.
The new plans aim to address concerns raised in the earlier application, which was criticised for being too dominant and out of character with the surrounding area.
Developers say the revised version presents “a high-quality development that better aligns with the character of the area,” replacing the two large buildings originally proposed with seven smaller blocks ranging from four to six storeys, with the tallest positioned on less sensitive parts of the site.
The application also includes the creation of a new public route through the site, environmental mitigation measures, and the planting of more than 150 trees.
The redevelopment would represent a major regeneration project close to the city centre, providing much-needed student and affordable housing. The site has remained vacant since the police station and court buildings were decommissioned.
Exeter City Council will now review the application.
Highlights:
– Plans have been submitted for an 813-unit mixed-use scheme on Heavitree Road in Exeter
– The site would host 399 student beds and 414 co-living units
– The new design features seven lower-rise blocks, replacing previously rejected taller buildings
