Exeter Green Party Councillors say the Labour-run Council is “out of fresh ideas” over plans to redevelop the old bus station site. The Labour leader confirmed at a full Council meeting last week that plans to turn the space into a temporary car park would go ahead, but that longer term there were plans for a multi-million-pound development featuring retail outlets, homes and public spaces.
However, an online Green Party survey shows people definitely do not want a car park on the site. The most popular ideas from the public on how the site should be used were as a new modern market space, with green spaces also provided.
Councillor Lynn Wetenhall said:
“Labour are clearly out of fresh ideas. People don’t want a car park here, they want to see solutions that provide opportunities for independent businesses, and great green spaces to sit and enjoy being in the city centre.
“Residents who shared their ideas see there is a great opportunity for breathing creative new life into the heart of the city. Many have told us they would like to see a market and green space at the site.”
Green councillor Tess Read said:
“Labour have said the car park will only be temporary, but how long is temporary? We have already waited five years for something to happen to this site, so another 3-5 years will be a lost decade for this important space.
“The city centre does not need more car parking spaces and the proposal flies in the face of Council promises to reduce carbon emissions, encourage active travel and reduce air pollution.
“This is a prime site in the city centre. Let’s not put a car park on it and instead transform it into a beautiful space for the benefit of residents, visitors and local businesses alike.”
Notes
Have your say on what you would like to see at the site of the old bus station