Torquay's The Strand reopens tomorrow as planned

Torbay Council has confirmed that The Strand in Torquay will reopen to vehicles and pedestrians tomorrow (Friday, November 29) as planned. 

The main road, which is due to be open by 5pm, has been closed for over six weeks to allow for Torquay’s first Town Deal-funded project to take place. 

The closure forced drivers to use alternative back-road routes, causing delays and frustration, so the reopening is expected to be warmly welcomed. 

During this time, junction reconfiguration works have been taking place at Fleet Street, Torwood Street, and Victoria Parade. 

Bus services that have been on a diversion route since mid-October will return to normal at the start of service on Saturday, November 30.

The Strand, which was previously dominated by public transport, now sees buses permanently relocated to Cary Parade, where new areas with shelters and seating have been created for bus passengers.

The area has been transformed with new seating, feature lighting, and bike parking, aiming to encourage more people to visit and spend time in the space.

The road has been resurfaced, and new markings have been added to reflect the updated highway layout.

The Council advises pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists to take extra care in the area as they adjust to the new road layout.

One highlight of the redesign is the Grade II-listed Mallock Clock Tower, which can now be approached up close for the first time in decades. 

Previously located on a roundabout in the middle of the road, the clock tower now stands as a centrepiece of the harbourside's enhanced public space.

Above: Works up Torwood Street

The council has worked swiftly to align the reopening with the launch of the Bay of Lights Illumination Trail. 

Although finishing touches to some areas will continue until mid-December, these works will not impact the Illumination Trail, live music events, or traffic flow.

Cllr Chris Lewis, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Place Development and Economic Growth at Torbay Council, said; "Torquay's new look harbourside is ready for people to visit and enjoy. We're looking forward to welcoming everyone down this weekend so they can see how the space has been redesigned to host events such as the Bay of Lights Illumination Trail.

"I'd like to thank businesses in the area and the public for their patience, understanding, and support as we delivered this project for Torbay. We know at times it has been challenging, but we hope everyone enjoys the new look.

"This is the first of the Town Deal projects that we have delivered. We have more projects underway as we look to create a town centre that is well-connected, vibrant, and provides a range of benefits for residents, businesses, and visitors."

Locals will be eager to see how the final project compares to the council’s preferred design plans.

Looking ahead, the Council plans to formally open the harborside during Easter 2025. 

This event will coincide with the installation of a specially commissioned tribute to Agatha Christie, a mini-Agatha Christie Festival, and a range of activities and events. Further details will be shared in early spring.

For more information about the Bay of Lights Illumination Trail, opening night, and live music events, visit illuminationtrail.co.uk.