New Exeter Community Orchid Place Celebrates Grand Opening with Mayor

A brand-new later living community Orchid Place has opened in Exeter, welcoming its first homeowners with a visit from the city’s Lord Mayor.

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News and community
Posted 14 July 2026
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Lord Mayor Councillor Gemma Rolstone, guests and members of the development team came together to celebrate the opening of Orchid Place and explore its apartments and shared spaces. The Mayor toured the show suites, enjoyed refreshments and had the opportunity to meet homeowners and neighbours while learning more about life at the new community.

Located on Topsham Road, Orchid Place has been thoughtfully designed to feel like a natural extension of the local area. The development features 62 one and two-bedroom apartments, alongside a range of shared spaces that encourage social connection - from the comfortable homeowners’ lounge to the landscaped gardens and guest suite for visiting friends and family. Each element has been carefully considered to support a lifestyle that balances independence with community.

Reflecting strong demand for the new community, 70% of the apartments at Orchid Place have already been reserved, demonstrating the appetite for high-quality later living options in Exeter.

During the visit, the Lord Mayor was given a tour of the development, exploring the apartments and communal areas while meeting members of the team and gaining an insight into the lifestyle on offer.



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The Lord Mayor of Exeter, Councillor Gemma Rolstone, commented: Orchid Place is a fantastic addition to Exeter, offering high-quality homes where residents can feel independent, connected and part of a welcoming community. I’m delighted to celebrate its opening and thank everyone who has helped bring this wonderful development to life.


Community input has played an important role in shaping Orchid Place, with early engagement helping to ensure the development reflects the character of Exeter and integrates seamlessly into the surrounding neighbourhood. This approach has helped create a place that feels both welcoming and familiar from the outset.

Rebecca Johnson, Group Sales and Marketing Director at McCarthy & Stone, commented: We are thrilled to officially open Orchid Place and welcome our first homeowners to this new community in Exeter. The development has been designed to support independent living while helping homeowners feel connected, reassured and at home.

Beyond providing new homes, Orchid Place has also contributed to the local economy, working with a range of Exeter-based contractors and suppliers throughout construction.

For added peace of mind, a House Manager will be on-site during office hours to oversee the day-to-day running of the development, while a 24/7 emergency call system and camera entry system in each apartment will help homeowners feel safe and secure.


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Retirement Living in Exeter

For further information about homes for sale, rent and through Shared Ownership at Orchid Place, please call 0800 153 3076 or visit Orchid Place | McCarthy & Stone


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