Cranbrook Update

The latest railway station for East Devon at Cranbrook is taking shape with the platform and shelters now in place along with the access road and car parks.

Cranbrook will eventually have 15,000 residents say planners so the station will certainly assist in developing the community by providing quick access to Exeter city centre and London.  The promised railway station is more than a year behind schedule but at last it is expected to open this year.  Network Rail have been unable to confirm a date but said it would open by the autumn.

Once complete the station will have a bus link to Exeter airport and there is already an existing bus service from Younghayes Road into Exeter city centre.

An opening date for the supermarket at Cranbrook has now also been set.  The development is opposite the primary school and Younghayes Community Centre.

The Express & Echo quoted the Co-operative saying: “The Southern Co-operative’s new neighbourhood food store is planned to open in Gallopis Court, 147 Younghayes Road, Cranbrook, on Wednesday, 9th September. In addition to a bespoke range of produce, ready meals and an instore bakery, the store will include a Post Office and free to use ATM. The store opening is the latest for the independent regional retailer, The Southern Co-operative, whose nearest stores to Cranbrook include three in Exeter; Beacon Lane, Alphington Road and Buddle Lane.”

The firm said they would involve the community in the opening with special events to mark the occasion.

The Rev Mark Gilborson of the Cornerstone Church in the town said the Post Office was a surprise, but in a nice way. He said: “Cranbrook is set to be one of the biggest towns in East Devon with 25,000 to 35,000 people and we need the infrastructure. It’s not only good for Cranbrook but it’s also good for the Surrounding area as people in Cylst Honiton and Rockbeare will also be able to use the facilities. Cranbrook is such a brilliant community that we deserve it.”

As the leading letting agent at Cranbrook Martin & Co are pleased to see these developments take place as it will not only assist in letting properties in the town but will also create a community where residents will be happy to stay for a long period.