Housing development approved for part of former Rolle College site

Plans to redevelop part of the former Rolle College site as housing have been unanimously approved by councillors.

Large parts of the site have already been transformed into the new premises for the Exeter Deaf Academy.

But developers had sought planning permission to demolish a number of still vacant buildings on the former Plymouth University site, build 29 new homes and refurbish the Grade II listed Eldin House to create four apartments.

East Devon District Council's planning committee unanimously supported the proposal as 'a well-designed and well thought out residential scheme that would positively contribute to the character and appearance of the area'.

At the meeting on Wednesday, March 10, development manager Chris Rose, recommending approval, said: "The existing site is vacant and run-down and its number of derelict and vandalised buildings do detract from the character and appearance of the area.

"It is considered that the proposed design, layout and form of development has been largely sensitive to the topography of the site, whilst addressing the complex constraints posed by the retained trees.

"The proposals would result in less than substantial harm to the setting for heritage assets, where there are considered to be a number of both heritage and public benefits that weigh in favour of the scheme.

"On balance, it is considered that the proposals would provide a well-designed and well thought out residential scheme that would be positively contribute to the character and appearance of the area whilst safeguarding the future use of Eldin House."

Cllr Mike Howe said: "This brings the building back into use. Yes, we lose some trees, but they are not the best quality trees, and if the officers thought we were losing good quality trees they would be screaming about it.

"This is far in advance of a lot of other developments, so I am happy to support this, and I cannot see how they could design it any better."

Cllr Olly Davey added: "It is a shame to lose the trees but if the officers feel the best we will get, I am happy to accept their view. This is the best quality we will get in the same within the constraints."

Cllr Philip Skinner said: "This is a scheme that works for Exmouth and the right density of housing in the right place."

The scheme will see the demolition of existing buildings for a residential development of 33 new homes, in a mix of 10 houses and 19 apartments, and the conversion and refurbishment of Eldin House to create four apartments.