Rundown city centre car park to get £2.5m upgrade

Plans to refurbish and upgrade a city centre multi-storey car park have been approved by councillors.

Exeter City Council gave the green light to the plans for the Cathedral and Quay car park following a "sustained campaign" of anti-social behaviour and "significant" safety concerns due to vandalism, rough sleeping, drug use and bonfires.

The council said the £2.5m upgrade would allow the car park to be brought back into full use, improve safety and accessibility, while also enhancing its appearance and the surrounding area.

Council leader Phil Bialyk said it was a "significant investment" in the city's future.

The council said improvements to the 355-space car park included "upgraded mechanical and electrical systems, replacement ventilation infrastructure, improved lighting, landscaping and public realm enhancements".

It said it also wanted to introduce a "pay-on-foot system" which allows visitors to pay at the end of their stay rather than the current system of paying at the start.

In March 2024 a plan to outsource the car park to a private operator was withdrawn after opposition from councillors.

Built in the late-1980s, upper decks of the car park closed in 2020 due to structural defects.

The city council hoped the investment would generate "increased usage and revenue over time, with forecasts showing significant growth in income once the refurbished facility reopens and returns to full operation".

Bialyk said the car park was a "strategically important city centre asset" and the improvements would create "a safer, more attractive and more welcoming environment".

Follow BBC Devon on X, Facebook and Instagram. Send your story ideas to spotlight@bbc.co.uk.