A significant planning application has been formally lodged for a new residential building in Exeter, setting the stage for potential changes to a local streetscape. The proposal seeks permission to construct a dedicated building for houses in multiple occupation (HMO) within the grounds of two existing properties on Heavitree Road.
Details of the Heavitree Road Development Proposal
A full planning application has been submitted to Exeter City Council concerning land at 70 and 72 Heavitree Road, near the EX1 2LP postcode area. The core of the proposal is the erection of a new building designed to provide six bedrooms for use as a house in multiple occupation (HMO).
Alongside the living accommodation, the plans include associated landscaping works, a dedicated bin store, and a secure bicycle storage facility. In a separate but linked element, the application also contains a retrospective request for consent for a plant room, meaning this structure already exists and the applicant is seeking formal approval after its construction.
Key Parties and Public Consultation Process
The application has been made by David Crocker of Fairfield House, Shepperds Court, Lower Lane, Ebford, EX3 0FD, acting on behalf of the company Formentor Investments Ltd. The determining authority is Exeter City Council, based at the Civic Centre on Paris Street.
The statutory public notice was published on Thursday, November 27, 2025, in the Exeter Express & Echo newspaper and is available via the Public Notice Portal. This notice triggers a formal consultation period during which local people and interested parties can submit their views to the council.
How and When to Submit Comments
Any person, particularly owners of the land or tenants who may be affected, are encouraged to review the full application details. Those who wish to make a representation must do so in writing to Exeter City Council within the statutory deadline.
Based on the notice date, all comments must be received by the council no later than Thursday, December 18, 2025. This provides a 21-day window for responses. The council has advised that representations should focus on material planning considerations.
Relevant issues the planning officers may consider include:
- The design and scale of the proposed new building.
- Its impact on neighbour amenity, including overlooking and privacy.
- Highway and pedestrian safety implications.
- The provision made for parking, cycles, and waste storage.
- Potential noise impacts and the overall character of the local area.
Next Steps and Accessing Documents
All application documents are typically made available for public scrutiny through Exeter City Council’s online planning portal. Residents requiring assistance to view the plans or to submit a comment are advised to contact the council’s planning service directly.
This application will now undergo a period of assessment by planning officers, who will weigh the proposal against local planning policies, the submitted details, and all comments received from the public during the consultation phase. A decision is expected to be made by the council's planning committee or through delegated powers at a later date.
