ECS responds to Full Planning Application for Clarendon House Site

Exeter Civic Society handed in its response to the full planning application for the Clarendon House Site. While we are broadly supportive of the principle of redeveloping this site, as identified within the emerging Exeter Plan, we are disappointed that family accommodation cannot be developed in this sustainable location, and we continue to have significant reservations regarding the current proposal as student accommodation. The proposed scheme does not demonstrate an appropriate or sensitive response to the surrounding built environment, particularly in relation to scale, massing, and its relationship with adjacent buildings, streetscapes, and public spaces. Given the strategic importance of this site, a more rigorous contextual approach is required to ensure that the development contributes positively to the townscape character and respects the established urban form.

We pointed out that we cannot support the proposal in its current form and that we strongly urge the applicant to revisit the design to ensure a more contextually responsive, visually coherent, and spatially integrated scheme that aligns with the aspirations and policy objectives of the emerging Exeter Plan and established principles of good urban design.

Our responds covers:

  • the proposed Garden Lane and pedestrian permeability of the site
  • massing
  • design and appearance
  • external amenity spaces
  • internal layouts
  • sustainability
  • transport

Key areas of concern include:
• Context and character: The scheme fails to respond appropriately to the local townscape, including issues of scale, massing, and its relationship with surrounding buildings and public spaces.
• Urban integration: The development does not adequately address wider connectivity, particularly with the Triangle Car Park and public realm network.
• Public realm and amenity: External spaces are underdeveloped, with missed opportunities for pedestrian-friendly environments.
• Transport and servicing: The Transport Assessment lacks detail, and current proposals for servicing, loading, parking, and cycle provision are insufficient and potentially conflict with future road layouts.

To read our full response to this site, see under: https://exetercivicsociety.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/251003_ECS-Clarendon-House-Letter.pdf