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Planning: Belmont House and University of Exeter applications

People can have their say

New plans announced in Exeter

Exeter City Council has published a set of planning applications affecting conservation areas and the setting of listed buildings across Newtown and St Leonards, Topsham, and Duryard and St James, according to a statutory public notice dated 23 April 2026.

The sites include areas near postcodes EX4 6SQ and EX1 2LU, with representations invited within 24 days.

Applications at a glance

  • Belmont House, Silver Lane, Newtown and St Leonards — Refurbishment of a 54-bed apartment block, including overcladding of balcony enclosures, replacement of windows and doors, and reroofing. Ref: 26/0251/FUL (CA)
  • University of Exeter, School of Education, Haighton Library, Newtown and St Leonards — Extension on the south elevation to accommodate a lift shaft. Ref: 26/0427/FUL (CA)
  • 60 Magdalen Road, Newtown and St Leonards — Remodelling of a detached single dwelling, including a single-storey side extension, front infill extension, replacement two-storey rear bay and single-storey rear extension, roof alterations, and demolition of existing outbuildings. Ref: 26/0532/FUL (CA)
  • 86A Fore Street, Topsham — Ground-floor rear extension with new windows and doors. Ref: 26/0295/FUL (CA)
  • 30 Streatham Drive, Duryard and St James — Extensions to an existing dwelling, alterations to window styles, changes to the existing dormer roof, plus new entrance gates and front driveway alterations. Ref: 26/0285/FUL

How to have your say

Those who have any concerns or believe they may be adversely impacted are encouraged to review the application documents and submit comments, objections or support to Exeter City Council. Representations can be made via the council’s planning portal or by emailing the assigned Case Officer, and should be received by 17 May 2026.

What is a conservation area and listed building setting?

A conservation area is designated for its special architectural or historic interest. Development within these areas typically requires designs and materials that preserve or enhance local character. Proposals that affect the setting of listed buildings are assessed for their impact on the building’s significance, including views, scale, massing and detailing. Heritage considerations are weighed alongside other planning policies.

Potential local impacts to consider

  • Heritage and design: Scale, materials and detailing in sensitive locations
  • Amenity: Privacy, overlooking, daylight and outlook for neighbours
  • Access and movement: Construction traffic management and driveway changes
  • Sustainability: Energy efficiency measures and fabric upgrades
  • Noise and working hours: Construction management plans may be required

Where can I find full details?

Full application documents, plans and supporting reports are available on the council’s planning portal using the references listed above. The statutory public notice is also available via the Public Notice Portal for reference.

Key dates

  • Notice published: 23 April 2026
  • Representation window: 24 days from publication (deadline 17 May 2026)

What happens next?

Planning officers will assess each submission against national and local planning policies, heritage guidance and consultee feedback. Decisions may be issued under delegated powers or referred to a planning committee meeting. If permission is granted, applicants may still need building control approval and to discharge any planning conditions before work can commence.

Residents, businesses and community groups can monitor progress by checking updates on the council’s planning portal. Quoting the reference numbers above will help locate the relevant case files quickly.

This article was crafted with the help of an AI engine, which speeds up DevonLive’s editorial research and applies it to article templates created by journalists in our newsrooms. A DevonLive editor reviewed this content before it was published. You can report any errors or bugs to [email protected]

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