Exeter faces a pivotal moment as plans for a large housing project could impact its maritime future
Exeter: Big changes are on the horizon for the city. A massive housing project is in the works, and it could really affect shipbuilding and maritime activities.
The city council is set to meet next Monday to discuss this project at Water Lane, near the Quay. They’re planning to build up to 1,000 new homes, including student housing and fancy apartments with water views.
But not everyone is on board. There are loads of objections, and the planning report is nearly 120 pages long. That’s a lot of info to sift through!
The developers, part of Cilldara Group, want to tear down some old buildings, including a meat rendering plant. They plan to replace them with homes, shops, a café, and even a hotel.
They’re also looking to build a new bridge over the canal and remove an old trawler that’s been sitting there for over ten years. It’s a big project, costing over £400 million, with £30 million just to prepare the site.
This land has been marked for housing in Exeter’s local plan for two decades. But there are concerns. Historic England is worried about how tall the new buildings will be, and local NHS providers say they’re already stretched thin.
The Exeter Port Authority insists that part of the area must remain for launching large boats. They believe commercial use of the canal is still possible, even if it’s quieter now.
They also mention that the canal is getting more popular with leisure users and that there’s a growing interest in restoring heritage boats. Keeping access to the water is crucial.
Groups like the Friends of Exeter Ship Canal fear this development could turn the shipyard into a public square, ending the area’s maritime activities. They worry it will shut down future opportunities for boat building and related jobs.
The Inland Waterways Association argues that keeping the wharf for maritime use could create new skills and jobs in Exeter. It’s a lot to think about as the city moves forward.
