Hub approval expected despite funding concerns

Plans for a new community hub in Exeter are expected to be approved despite some funding concerns.

Exeter City Council's planning committee will meet on Monday to assess the application for the proposed wellbeing hub in the Wonford area of the city.

Council leader Phil Bialyk said the project was "fantastic", and would support local people to be healthy, happy and active every day.

The council still needs to find the funds for the project and said it was exploring a number of sources.

The proposal includes refurbishing Wonford Sports Centre and Community and Learning Centre, with the existing gym, Phoenix Centre and outdoor changing rooms demolished.

The new hub would accommodate a cafe, changing facilities, studio and gym, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said.

Speaking in 2024 after the application was submitted, Councillor Duncan Wood said the council had been working closely with the community in Wonford.

He added; "This building will benefit the local community by creating a welcoming and inclusive environment to encourage wider participation in social, wellbeing and physical activities."

But he added: "There is still a long way to go and we still need to secure the necessary funding which will make these plans a reality."

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