Major transformation under way in Barnstaple town centre as creative spaces take shape

Barnstaple’s Market Quarter is undergoing a major transformation as part of the council’s long-term plan to bring life back into the town centre.

The work forms part of North Devon Council’s wider Barnstaple Vision, developed through consultation with local residents, businesses and partners. 

The project is being supported by £6.5 million from the Government’s Future High Streets Fund, with an additional £4.4 million match funding from the council.

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Now, the spotlight is on 36 and 37 Boutport Street, where progress is gathering pace on turning the area into a creative and cultural hub for North Devon.

At number 36, a listed historic building, exterior repairs are almost complete, with just a few final lime render touches needed to the east side and around the new shopfront to the west.

Inside, the restoration work is well underway. 

Floorboards have been sanded and oiled, original lime plaster repaired where it had survived, and much of the decorating finished. 

A first-floor room, historically considered high status, has had its decorative cornice reinstated to bring back some of its former grandeur.

With refurbished sash windows, polished floors and restored ceilings, the building is beginning to show its full character once again.

Bringing the building up to modern standards hasn’t been straightforward. 

Built in 1906, it was never designed for today’s electrical and digital needs, so the council has installed surface-mounted cable trays suspended from the ceiling to house the necessary wiring. 

Toilets have been added on every floor, and a lift installed in the neighbouring building will help make the space as accessible as possible.

Next door, at number 37, the steel frame of the new build is nearly finished. 

Behind the hoardings, the walls of the ground-floor workshops are taking shape, and the layout of a new public walkway, which will connect Central Car Park with Boutport Street, is already visible.

Once complete, this will make access into the town centre far easier for visitors.

Although construction on such a tight site comes with challenges, steady progress is being made every week.

North Devon Council is now welcoming expressions of interest from individuals, organisations and businesses in the creative and cultural sectors who would like to be part of the new Boutport Street Studios.

The studios will offer a mix of workspaces in a unique setting that combines heritage and modern design. 

Number 36 will become a base for cultural activity, while number 37 will include affordable housing and work units centred around the new arcade-style walkway.

Located opposite the Queen’s Theatre and just around the corner from the Pannier Market, the studios aim to build a vibrant, creative community in the heart of town.

Rent levels, service charges and details of available support will be shaped by the level of interest and mix of tenants who come forward. 

Those keen to find out more can visit www.northdevon.gov.uk or contact propertyservices@northdevon.gov.uk

Anyone who previously registered interest will be contacted directly.

Meanwhile, phases one and two of the improvements to Barnstaple Central car park are now complete. 

ABOVE: Barnstaple Central car park. Credit: North Devon Council

These include safer surfacing, upgraded lighting on main pedestrian routes and new signage. 

All three entrances and exits are now open, with 235 spaces available, including child and parent bays, electric vehicle charging points, motorcycle parking and bike racks.

Parking charges remain in line with other North Devon Council short-stay car parks.

The final stage of work will be completed once construction work at Boutport Street is finished and the site compound is cleared, which is expected in spring 2026.