Michelmores acts for Yelverton Properties on Exeter’s St James Park Development

Michelmores’ Real Estate team is advising commercial property development and investment company, Yelverton Properties, on its St James Park development at the home of Exeter City Football Club. 

Exeter City Council resolved to grant planning consent in February but a potential call in delayed the issue of the consent. The project achieved planning consent in May but then faced a judicial review challenge from the St James Forum which has been refused leave to progress in the High Court. The aim is for the development of new high-quality student accommodation, as well as the partial redevelopment of the iconic St James Park football ground to be progressed in the new year once the remaining development issues are resolved.

The revitalisation of the football ground includes the demolition and rebuilding of the Stagecoach Family Stand by Well Street, relocation and improvements to the player and referee changing facilities beneath the main stand. Significant improvement will also be made to other areas of the ground. 

The new student residence will provide accommodation for 320 students at the University of Exeter and will be built on land behind the football ground’s Big Bank Stand and two adjoining pieces of land.

Joanna Damerell, who is leading the Michelmores team, said: “We are delighted to be supporting Yelverton Properties on its development proposals at St James Park. The project will help to renew key facilities at Exeter City Football club and help regenerate a significant part of the city, providing purpose-built student accommodation which is in high demand.”

Mark Howard who has advised on the planning call in and challenge is pleased to have assisted Yelverton in overcoming these obstacles.