Concerns over proposals to build a new block of flats has been raised by a resident of Rennes House, situated next to the development.
Plans to demolish an existing two storey concrete car park in Vaughan Road, and construct a new block of 26 flats, to reduce the huge demand for rented social housing in the city, are recommended for approval at Exeter City Council's planning meeting tonight.
The development, located opposite Whipton Barton School in Hill Lane, will be up to four storeys high, and include changes to existing access and car parking. A total of 42 parking spaces will be provided – 27 for the new flats, and 15 for Rennes House, as well as 27 cycle spaces.
It will see a significant reduction in car parking spaces for residents of Rennes House, housing aimed at over 55s, as well as a loss of some amenity space.
Sally Jones, who has lived at Rennes House for nearly three years, said: "There are 61 residents living in Rennes House and yet they are only given us 15 car parking spaces and there is also no secure space for mobility scooters.
"We currently have 24 spaces underground and 48 on the ground floor which are used by residents and visitors, including carers.
"The development does no take into consideration the residents of Rennes House. It's a really nice place to live but this will take some of the great things away and not give us back anything.
"Not all residents at Rennes House drive but I still do and so where do we park our cars? We will have to find on road parking in Vaughan Road and Hill Lane.
"I'm now turning 70 and I treasure my vehicle because it gets me where I want to go. I pay to park underground because I don't want my vehicle on the road. I'm not being offered any other secure parking and am expected to park willy nilly.
"I'm not saying it's bad to have a block of flats here but what is proposed is not conducive to the surrounding area."
Other objections raised so far have included a loss of multi-fuctional parking used by parents of the school; lack of consultation; and increased traffic congestion because of lost parking.
A spokesperson for Exeter City Council said: "The planning application will be considered by the planning committee on Monday night.
"The report summarises the objections received and the position with regard to parking and amenity space to serve Rennes House.
"A resident of Rennes House is taking advantage of the opportunity to address the planning committee as a objector."
The conclusion of the planning application report states that while the impact on the open space to serve Rennes House is a major downside to the scheme, the overall benefits in terms of delivery of affordable housing, and potential release of larger affordable housing properties as a result of tenants downsizing to the proposed flats "are considered to outweigh this concern".
