Work on fire-ravaged Royal Clarence imminent

Work to turn the fire-ravaged Royal Clarence Hotel into luxury flats is believed to be imminent.

Although it was due to get underway this summer, discussions over the planning details took longer than expected.

However, the developers and Exeter City Council have now reached agreement and full planning permission has been granted on a scheme to build luxury flats on the Cathedral Green site.

The building, which is owned by a company belonging to former Plymouth Argyle owner James Brent, was gutted by a huge blaze seven years ago today (October 28).

In March 2023, Apex Scaffolding announced that works had progressed inside the site, with extensive supports erected to protect the listed structure while allowing restoration to continue.

The ambitious £17 million scheme aims to restore the front of the building to its former glory and transform it into 23 luxury apartments – a mix of two and three beds – spread over five floors, including a new roof extension.

A restaurant and pub, as part of the reconstructed Well House Tavern, will be on the ground floor, as well as a commercial food and drink unit.