Historic archway reopens to reconnect Exeter’s Northernhay and Rougemont Gardens

Visitors can once again move freely between two of Exeter’s most popular green spaces after repairs were completed on the archway linking Rougemont Gardens and Northernhay Gardens.

The historic stone arch, first cut in 1913, had been closed for safety reasons after loose masonry was found during a condition survey. 

The closure, which prevented direct access between the two adjoining parks, remained in place while the City Council investigated possible structural issues.

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Work to secure the archway was delayed while engineers prioritised repairs to a collapsed section of the city wall near Iron Bridge earlier this year. With that project now complete, the Council has been able to turn attention back to the connecting arch.

Following a detailed inspection, a structural engineer confirmed there were no major concerns, though repairs were required to stabilise loose masonry and repoint the surrounding stonework.

Cllr Ruth Williams, Lead Councillor for City Management, said she was pleased to see the passage reopened: “We sought the expertise of a structural engineer, who confirmed there were no structural issues surrounding the arch.”

“In order to open it up again, we had to consolidate some of the loose masonry and carry out repointing above and on either side of the archway. The reopening will enable more people to enjoy both parks in the same visit.”

The reopening restores a well-used route between Northernhay and Rougemont Gardens, one that saves parkgoers a longer detour and helps keep Exeter’s historic green spaces connected for residents and visitors alike.