Exeter's County Hall Site Could See Affordable Housing Development
The future of the Matford offices site at County Hall in Exeter is set for a pivotal discussion, with Devon County Council's cabinet meeting next week to consider a recommendation for developing affordable housing, care leaver housing, and key worker housing on the land. This move marks a significant step forward for the controversial site, which has been declared surplus but faced opposition from residents over potential housing development.
Addressing Community Concerns and Strategic Goals
Residents had previously expressed fears about the removal of well-established trees and the potential loss of walking routes through the site. However, a cabinet paper aims to alleviate these concerns by stating that there would be no significant tree removal and that any land disposal would allow for the retention of routes frequently used by walkers and dog walkers. The council's land and property committee agreed in January that the land was surplus to requirements, but officers were tasked with exploring how development could support the council's strategic objectives.
As a result, the cabinet will decide whether to prioritize an innovative approach for site development that contributes to the council's strategic plan ambitions, specifically focusing on affordable homes, care leaver housing, and key worker housing. Officers had noted that targeting development for such uses could be challenging, but requiring a certain proportion to be affordable is considered more realistic.
Planning and Procedural Details
Although Devon County Council owns the land, any potential developer would need to submit plans to Exeter City Council, which serves as the planning authority for the city. Additionally, the matter is returning to cabinet because officers initially stated the parcel represented less than 5% of existing public open space on the County Hall site, but it actually equates to 7.4%, requiring correction in the report.
A total of 10 complaints were made following the land and property committee's decision in January, but the decision to discuss the site further at cabinet had been made prior to those queries being lodged. The cabinet will discuss the future of the site on Wednesday, 11 March, potentially paving the way for a development that balances housing needs with community interests.
