Beaufort House in Exeter to Become Student Housing

A vacant building on New North Road in Exeter is set to become student housing, providing an additional 107 beds in the city centre.

Beaufort House, which was constructed in the late 1980s is currently vacant. The proposal will see the former office building converted into 23 self-contained student flats, providing accommodation for more than 100 individuals.

Exeter City Council planning officers have granted approval for a change of use application, eliminating the need for it to be presented to a committee of councillors.

The renovation will involve the reconfiguration of the ground and upper floors, creating 21 student apartments and two studios, totalling 107 bedrooms, while the basement will be transformed into back-of-house facilities. All of the rooms will surpass the council's minimum space requirements, featuring double beds and en-suite bathrooms.

A statement within the planning application from owners Lexeter LLP, said: "The proposed accommodation offers an alternative to returning students who might normally occupy shared houses.

"Exeter University has a student population of over 27,000 students. It is recognised that both the university and its students have a positive impact on the local economy and the cultural and social vitality of the city. There are recognised benefits, to both student occupants and local residents, in providing accommodation in purpose-designed and managed accommodation.

"The proposed 107 student bedrooms in the scheme will help to reduce the number of students in unmanaged properties and potentially release housing back to local families."

Approving the application, planning officers commented: "The site is considered to be a suitable location, on the edge of the city centre, with good public transport links and within walking distance of the university."

Campbell Property, which already operates in Exeter amongst other cities in the UK, is set to manage the building on completion.