New powers to seize empty shops as MP reveals data behind Exeter's £20m boost

Exeter’s MP has defended the selection of Whipton and Heavitree for a £20m investment, following claims that some communities have been "ignored" for years.

Steve Race says he successfully "lobbied" the government to ensure the east of the city was included in the national Pride in Place scheme, which will provide £2m a year for the next decade.

It follows the announcement earlier this week that Exeter was one of several areas to secure a share of a £5bn national renewal fund.

While the funding has been widely welcomed by local leaders, it is understood that the selection of Whipton and Heavitree East was based on specific technical criteria that go beyond traditional ward boundaries.

The government used "Middle-layer Super Output Areas" (MSOAs) to identify pockets of the city where both deprivation is highest and community cohesion is lowest.

The funding is specifically intended to rebuild "social capital" and strengthen community ties in areas where these links have been identified as under pressure.

Mr Race, who argued the case for the east of the city directly to ministers, said the money would be used to fix "tired infrastructure" and support "resilient village community spirit."

"For too long, some communities have felt they were left behind," he said. "I’ve taken this back to government and made the case that communities in Whipton and east Heavitree deserve better."

Under the new powers granted by the scheme, a resident-led Neighbourhood Board will be able to:

• Seize boarded-up shops to prevent high street decay.

• Block "nuisance businesses" from opening in the area.

• Buy local assets, such as pubs or community centres, before they are sold to private developers.

The timing of the announcement has been noted by local political figures ahead of the local elections in May.

Cllr Liz Pole, who represents Mincinglake and Whipton, said the council team would "fight tooth and nail" to ensure the money is distributed fairly until 2037.

The programme will be led by an independent chair rather than the council, a move designed to keep decision-making "in the hands of the people who matter," according to Labour candidate Steve Casemore.

Work to establish the Neighbourhood Board is expected to begin later this year.