Steve Darling: Cuts, funding and stand up paddle-boarding

I am thrilled at the recent news Torquay has been selected as one of 75 locations across the UK to benefit from the government’s “Plan for Neighbourhoods.”

This initiative brings up to £20 million in funding over the next decade, alongside the establishment of a new Neighbourhood Board to spearhead transformative projects. This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to address long-standing challenges and create a better future for the town.

The funding will focus on key areas such as community centres, youth clubs, improved public transport, cycling infrastructure, high street regeneration, business support, skills training, employment programs, and housing improvements. These projects aim to strengthen our community and give residents a greater sense of ownership and pride in their neighbourhoods.

In Parliament, I emphasised the urgency of implementing these plans. I was pleased to hear the minister acknowledge my “relentless lobbying” on this issue. This recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone involved in advocating for Torquay’s future. I am optimistic that this funding will pave the way for a brighter future, and I hope similar investment can be secured for Paignton and Brixham in due course.

Health services remain a top priority. Alongside my fellow Lib Dem MPs, Caroline Voaden and Martin Wrigley, I have written to Steve Moore, head of the Devon Integrated Care Board, to demand clarity on proposed changes to out-of-hours Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PPCI) services. The suggested temporary relocation of these services from Torbay Hospital to the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital has raised serious concerns among local medical professionals.

Consultants at Torbay Hospital have warned that these changes could lead to higher mortality rates and increased levels of incapacity among survivors. During a recent meeting with cardiologists, Caroline, Martin, and I heard firsthand about the potential risks. Given the gravity of these concerns, we felt compelled to take action and will continue to fight for the best outcomes for our communities. 

You can add your name to my petition opposing these plans by going to https://www.torbaylibdems.org.uk/campaigns/save-our-out-of-hours-coronary-services

On a national level, I am deeply concerned about the government’s reported plans for £6 billion in welfare cuts. Proposed changes include tougher eligibility criteria and a payment freeze for Personal Independence Payments (PIP), Universal Credit reforms that could penalise those deemed unfit to work, and adjustments to the Work Capability Assessment. These measures risk pushing vulnerable individuals further into poverty, including many people in Torbay. 

Labour MPs and disability charities have already raised alarms about the potential “catastrophic impact” of these cuts. Sixteen leading charities, including the Trussell Trust, Scope, and Mind, have highlighted the dangers of slashing support without addressing the underlying issues in our public services. As Torbay’s MP and the Lib Dem spokesperson for Work and Pensions, I will challenge these cruel and misguided policies every step of the way.

I was delighted by the news that Torbay, as The English Riviera, will host the prestigious Stand Up Paddling World Cup from 24 to 28 June 2026. Paddle UK, the sport's governing body since 2023, was awarded the event, marking the first ICF SUP event of this scale in the UK.

The five-day festival will welcome 200 elite athletes and up to 1,000 paddlers, celebrating all aspects of SUP, from recreational paddling to elite competition. With an estimated 3 million adults already enjoying the sport, this event is expected to further inspire participation.

The World Cup will not only showcase the sport but also highlight the beauty of Torbay, boost the local economy, and create memorable experiences for all.

Thank you for taking the time to read this update. As always, I am here to assist with any issues you may have. Please don’t hesitate to contact me via email at steve.darling.mp@parliament.uk. To stay informed about my work, subscribe to my e-newsletter atwww.torbaylibdems.org.uk/newsletter.