Fenalla Keevil - Geography
Fenella Keevil
In 1949 the original Princesshay shopping centre was planned by Thomas Sharp following
extensive war damage. Sharp‟s master plan was to create the first pedestrian shopping area,
with modern buildings, incorporating views of Exeter Cathedral while conserving the Roman
City walls (Exeter Memories, 2011).
The resulting development did not fulfil Sharp‟s vision. Exeter Council‟s community strategy
report Vision 2020 (2000, p2), later criticised Princesshay as the “worst in mundane post-war
architecture” Another report observed that “post-war urgency to commence development of
Princesshay may have resulted in lasting negative implications in terms of both quality of
designs and materials.” (Exeter Council, 2008, p5).
By 1993 it was clear that the commercial units were not suitable for modern retail needs and
criticism was made “that covered elements of the scheme were dark and unsafe” (Exeter
Council, 2008, p5).
Further feasibility studies and reviews were commissioned, including Vision 2020. The
conclusions advocated an accessible City centre, with improved pedestrian access and a
sustainable shopping area that would create jobs, enhancing the local economy. Additionally,
Exeter needed to become more attractive to visitors whilst being sympathetic to the historic
buildings and addressing the need for affordable housing in the area.
Below are pictures of the site prior to the redevelopment. (Jenkins, N. 2009) (Smith D.
1979).
Pre development photos
1950s
“In early 2001, Land Securities and Exeter Council commissioned a Conservation Area
Appraisal and an Urban Design Analysis in order that Key Development Principles could be
established” for a wider regeneration scheme (Land Securities, 2007, p4). “In November
2001, [these principles were established] and a master plan for the 13 acre site” created.
(Land Securities, 2007, p4) The Council sought to create a new state of the art shopping
centre, new private and social housing, as well as generally enhancing Exeter High Street, for
example, by the introduction of public art (Land Securities, 2007). “Planning consent for the
scheme was obtained in May 2003 and the redevelopment of the Princesshay area
commenced in January 2005.” (Land Securities, 2007).
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