Two-way traffic back in Torquay for starting weeks of summer season

To support businesses, traders, and event organizers, two lanes of traffic will be open along Torquay's harbourside from Friday, May 24, to Sunday, June 9.

The temporary removal of the current traffic management measures will mean two lanes (one in each direction) will be reinstated to ease congestion in the area, during what is expected to be a busy two-weeks.

The ongoing harbourside regeneration project, which will completely regenerate Torquay iconic Strand and Clocktower area, has been causing issues for visitors and business owners alike. Many motorists and visitors have reported snaking tailbacks through town during busy periods causing huge delays, while business owners around the quay have seen their profits fall. 

Thousands of visitors are anticipated to flock to the English Riviera to enjoy the bank holiday weekend, half-term break and two major events – the English Riviera Airshow (1-2 June) and a programme of D-Day 80 Commemorations.

Work on Torquay’s harbourside regeneration project will continue as normal and remains on track for completion in the autumn.

Regular visitors to the harbourside will have seen changes to kerb lines around the area as the new layout starts to take shape. Extensive preparation work continues to take place on the south (harbour) side of the Strand to create tree pits, along with levelling off the ground so new paving can be laid, and seating installed.

Torbay Councils project team is constantly reviewing the phasing of work and where possible making adaptations to suit the changing environment. One of the key elements of the rephasing is moving the road closure part of the project until after the busy summer months.

The single-shuttle lane with four-way lights will come back into operation on Monday 10 June and will remain in place until late July, when the road will be open to two-way traffic over the six-week summer holiday. The exact date will be confirmed in due course.

Future aspects of the project include incorporating the Clocktower into the public realm space, expanding the footpath at the Torwood Street / Strand junction, providing space for cyclists, installing a new tribute to Agatha Christie and relaying tramlines that were discovered during the first phase of the project.

Cllr Chris Lewis, Cabinet Member for Place Development and Economic Growth for Torbay Council; said; “We have given reassurance to the community that where possible within the delivery programme we will make changes to reduce the impact of these improvement works, especially over busy holiday periods.

“The reinstating of two-way traffic for late May and early June will support businesses, trades, and event organisers as they prepare to welcome thousands of extra people to the area.

“Throughout all phases of the project, all harbourside businesses and car parks are open as usual.”