P
lans to develop a Leisure Centre in what is now Exeter Bus Station have been recommended for approval by council officers.
Exeter could soon be home to ‘Princesshay Leisure’, providing residents and visitors with additional shops, restaurants, a cinema and a bus terminal.
This new addition is thought to take two years to construct and could provide up to 750 jobs.
This week saw the first release of the artist’s impressions of the scheme, showing modern rounded buildings and outside seating areas.
The council, who have already received 202 objections from residents over the proposed plans, will make a decision as to whether to proceed next week.
Concerns were also expressed over the proposed size of the bus terminal, and National Express and Exeter Civic Society were among the objectors.
Exeter university student and resident Sophie Murrison told Éxepose: “The proposed plans seem a little unnecessary in my opinion. Exeter already has a lot of Leisure Centres and this development could put some of the smaller ones out of business.”
Planning officers have laid out 41 conditions, regarding drainage, use of materials, outdoor lighting, use of floor space and the specifics of the bus station.
The developers commented: “This will create employment opportunities in the construction process over approximately a two year period, followed by new part time and full time permanent jobs when the development is completed.”
Princesshay Leisure would sit alongside the city council’s £26m new swimming pool and gym, and plans will to be discussed by the city council on Wednesday 20 January.