City council takes action on St Thomas arches

At the Exeter City Council meeting held on 18 October, Councillors formally approved the £50,000 budget to install fencing the length of the arches. This follows repeated complaints from residents about anti-social behaviour in the area.

Councillor Hannah Packham said “It has been a really difficult and distressing period for residents, with totally unacceptable behaviour taking place directly next to, and occasionally on, their properties. I have been working with ECC, Riverside Leisure Centre, the Neighbourhood Policing team and Network Rail to find a solution.

“Some neighbours were interested in using the space to accommodate community and business opportunities. Unfortunately the cost of waterproofing the arches for business use, which we lease from Network Rail is just too high, so fencing is he most viable option.

“I am pleased that ECC has agreed the £50,000 funding which will hopefully make such a difference to residents’ quality of life.”