Exeter to gain new community centre and GP surgery
Work on new community building and GP surgery to support Exeter’s growing population starts in April.
Construction of a new community building and GP surgery in Exeter is set to commence in April, marking the final phase of infrastructure development in the area.
These facilities are part of a £48.6 million project funded by the Government’s Housing Infrastructure Fund, managed by Homes England, to support the creation of 2,500 new homes on the outskirts of Exeter.
The community building will offer a range of amenities, including a hall, studio, meeting rooms, a multi-use foyer, and a kitchen across two levels.
Meanwhile, the GP surgery will be developed in two phases – initially featuring six consulting rooms on the ground floor, with additional space on the lower ground floor set aside for future expansion by the NHS.
The site is strategically located near Matford Brook Academy, providing pedestrian and cyclist access via the new A379 bridge, with dedicated cycle parking. There will also be 29 parking spaces, including disabled bays and EV charging points, to serve both the community building and the surgery.
Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Climate Change, Environment and Transport, Cllr Andrea Davis, described the project as a key moment in the area’s development. “The infrastructure work in South West Exeter has been a huge undertaking, and we are now in the final stretch. The community building and GP surgery will be a vital hub for the area, ensuring residents have access to essential services and healthcare.”
County Councillor for Exminster and Haldon, Cllr Alan Connett, echoed these sentiments, adding: “It is fantastic news that construction is about to begin. These facilities will be key to supporting local residents, and I look forward to seeing them open as soon as possible.”
For Cllr Yvonne Atkinson, County Councillor for Alphington and Cowick, the new GP surgery is particularly important. “With more people moving in, this facility is essential, as the existing GP surgery in Alphington is already at capacity. Community facilities will help social cohesion for new residents where they live and help the Alphington Community Centre and Village Hall meet demand.”
Executive Member for Planning at Teignbridge District Council, Cllr Gary Taylor, emphasised the importance of delivering services alongside new homes: “Providing essential neighbourhood facilities and infrastructure early in this new development will help meet the growing needs of the local community, while also making the area even more attractive for the residents and prospective buyers of the many new homes now being built.”
Devon County Council has awarded the construction contract to Tilbury Douglas.
Paul Gale, Regional Director – South West at Tilbury Douglas, said: “We are proud to be leading this project and look forward to working with key stakeholders to deliver a state-of-the-art facility that will serve the local community for years to come.”
As construction progresses, further updates will be provided to ensure residents are kept informed about this much-anticipated project.