Approval for Exeter community facility

Plans for a community centre and GP surgery in Exeter have been backed.Outline planning permission was granted by Teignbridge District Council in 2018 for land forming the major part of the South West of Exeter Urban Extension.This will include residential development and a mix of other uses including community and educational buildings.Development is progressing with the phased, construction of homes, while highway junction improvements, a cycle/pedestrian bridge and a new school have been constructed.The plans that went before Devon County Council’s development management committee are for two new buildings.The community centre will occupy the larger of the pair and will comprise two main pitched roof elements linked by a wedge-shaped flat-roofed infill structure.Facilities will include a reception and office, community hall with rentable stores, smaller studio hall, community kitchen, multi-use foyer and café space, meeting rooms and toilet facilities.It will be managed by Exminster Parish Council.The general practice surgery will be managed by Ide Lane Practice and comprise a single building with two storeys fronting Ellacott Road but with a single storey facing the parking and circulation area to the south.Facilities within the surgery building will include reception and manager’s offices, waiting room, consulting rooms, staffroom and storage and utility rooms.A report drawn up ahead of the meeting said: “In conclusion, it is considered that the proposed development will meet the requirements of the Teignbridge Local Plan for delivery of community and health facilities for the South West of Exeter urban extension in an accessible and focal location.”The proposed layout and building design are appropriate to the topography and context of the site. It is therefore considered that planning permission should be granted.”Approval has now been granted.