What The Torbay Weekly readers are saying

Unsurprisingly, one topic dominated discussions last week: the reopening of Torquay’s The Strand after six long weeks of road closures, construction work, and delays.

Marking the completion of the town’s first major regeneration project under Torquay’s Town Deal initiative, the reopening sparked a lively response from our readers, who shared their hopes and expectations for the revitalized harbourside area.

Our article announcing public consultation dates for the proposed regeneration of Union Square Shopping Centre inspired a mixed bag of responses.

Tracy Craze commented, “Historically, the council have consulted, ignored, and ploughed ahead with whatever they have planned regardless.”

Tony Fry added, “It will be flats locals can’t afford, I expect.”

However, some readers used the opportunity to share their aspirations for the area.

Gillian Speke emphasised the need to preserve Torquay’s historical architecture, writing: “Doing up (painting, clearing gutters etc.) existing buildings to stop the rot of beautiful Victorian villas—above shops especially—would help a lot of the area to stop looking unloved and shoddy.”

Commenting on the design proposals, Allan Macfadyen noted: “It’s nice to see some greenery. The only greenery in Fleet Street is the weeds under roadwork signs.”

Other locals expressed their support for the plans. David Turner urged the work to proceed quickly, stating Torquay needs the changes “urgently,” while Ruth Kingston also voiced her approval.

Peter Blackler added his praise, writing, “Well done to all involved in getting progress like this (how much they’d moan if there wasn’t…).”

An article by Local Democracy Reporter Guy Henderson on the transformation of Torquay’s harbourside “gathering pace” revealed a divide in public opinion.

Adam Garrett commented: “It’ll be another vulgar hotel, like the one being constructed at Livermead and the two on Paignton seafront.”

Trevor Brown expressed concerns about the new traffic system on The Strand, adding: “Exciting times for the emergency services in the summer when it’s gridlocked both ways and they have to go up the pavement to get to an emergency.”

Paul Bellingham, however, offered a more optimistic view, saying: “Positive comment… I love it. So much better than the bus stops… taxi rank and more.”

Although some feared The Strand wouldn’t reopen in time for the Bay of Lights Illumination Trail, Christmas in Torquay began as planned on Friday, November 29.

It may still be too early to determine whether locals are largely pleased or displeased with the redeveloped area.

The community Facebook group Safe, Sustainable Travel Torbay said: “We are still asking for cycling infrastructure as the road is too busy for all to feel safe and confident cycling with vehicles.”

Tim Wills shared his impressions of the Mallock Tower, which is now directly approachable thanks to the new piazza: “Need to visit down there and see how it all settles over time. Having the Mallock Tower in the public area is great. I’ve been lucky enough to be at the top where the ‘pineapples’ are and also stretch into the bell tower to try and read what’s inscribed on the bell. Hopefully, it’s in a better position now to be operational as a striking timepiece.”

Shifting focus towards Paignton, news of a new temporary surface-level car park by the town centre also sparked debate.

Stephen Squires remarked: “Oh dear, two car parks to go, both multistorey, and replaced by a ‘temporary car park’ on ground level only! Yet again Paignton is short-changed.”

Carol Roe suggested she would prefer a “decent supermarket,” while Daisy Hut proposed electric charging points for the site, along with a ban on motorhomes and camper vans from parking along the seafront.

In other Paignton news, Clive Moloney criticised the £900,000 allocated to restoring Paignton Picture House, stating it could have been “far better spent,” though he did not specify on what.

Ending on a more positive note, Jane Moore responded to Torbay MP Steve Darling’s column on the government delivering Torbay’s hospital upgrade, saying: “The last time I had to go to A&E (this year) I was seen within an hour.”

Similarly, Darren Cowell expressed satisfaction with the newly upgraded changing facilities at Armada Park, sharing: “It took me five years of badgering and lobbying to secure the funding for this project. Delighted that it is now complete.”

Do you want to share your thoughts about any of our articles? Let us know at ella.woszczyk@clearskypublishing.co.uk.