Torquay's Central Church celebrates 50th anniversary

Central Church in Torquay is celebrating its 50th anniversary with a series of special events.

Built on Tor Hill between 1975 and 1976, the large concrete church merged three congregations: Belgrave Congregational Church (which was demolished to make space for the new church), Union Street Methodist Church (sold to Mothercare), and Market Street Methodist Church (originally a primitive Methodist chapel).

The building’s modern design remains controversial, featuring a 30-metre-high “screen to the clouds”, with three crosses symbolising the union of the three churches. The foundation stone was laid in June 1975 by the Bishop of Exeter, representing a significant act of faith by the congregations.

The church’s exterior stands as a testament to the glory of God, while the interior is a multifunctional space designed for both worship and community events.

The octagonal main hall accommodates up to 700 people, with a sacred space for worship on one end and a stage for performances on the other. Surrounding rooms provide space for gatherings of all sizes.

The church is also home to several stained-glass features, including The Seven Ages of Man inside the main church, the coloured glass screen in the Chapel of Unity and three lancet windows in the entrance hall.

Upcoming events at the church include:

Tuesday, June 3 – celebration of the stone-laying, 7pm (preacher: Bishop Rylands)

Saturday, July 5 – Torbay Police and Community Choir, 7:30pm

Friday, July 25 – Q&A with MP Steve Darling, 7:30pm

July and August – Songs of Praise every Sunday evening at 7:45pm

For more details about the church and its events, visit www.centralchurchtorquay.org