Dave Thomas: Clean-up teams get the Bay ready for Easter holidaymakers

The Easter holidays are just about to start, and our Bay is carrying out its own spring green, getting ready to open up and host those who choose to visit us for their holidays, short breaks and day trips.

Tourism is such an important part for the Bay. Hospitality is one of the biggest employers for us and it is important we ensure the part we play in helping people enjoy our place. 

That is one of the reasons why we set up Operation Brighter Bay last year. This is our commitment to make real improvements to our public spaces as well as, and very important to us, the areas where you live too. We want Torbay to be a place to be proud of, where people of all ages want to live, work and visit. A place where everyone benefits from and enjoys a premier resort experience. 

Our teams from across the council, including those from SWISCo, are working hard to get the basics right, ensuring our shared places are clean and tidy. 

Operation Brighter Bay has been delivering visible enhancements for nearly 12 months. In 2024, we allocated £300,000 to support this work, and it continues to remain a priority, with a further £300,000 already committed through this year’s budget.

The continued work in this area will bring Brixham, Paignton, and Torquay up to a standard we can all be even prouder of. We will continue to deliver increased grass cutting of residential verges, main routes in and out of the Bay, and in our parks. Talking of grass cutting, have you seen the Robo Lawnmowers that have been diligently doing their job on the verges around where the South Devon Highway joins the ring road?

Through Brighter Bay we are also increasing the number of floral displays, flower beds, hanging baskets and barrier planters. 

Again, if you drive along Riviera Way, you will have seen the wonderful English Riviera flower display has already been planted. 

It will be great to see this all in bloom soon. This additional money also gives a boost to the street cleansing function in Brixham. Additional staff and equipment will be active for five to seven days per week, depending on the season. The teams are also increasing weed control with additional staff and equipment. 

From our continued conversations with you, we know that potholes remain a key concern. Last year, we delivered a 20 per cent increase on pothole and carriageway repairs, and we're committed to continue to improve highway quality throughout this financial year. 

If you are looking for something to do with the children or grandchildren over the Easter Holiday, the World of Peter Rabbit Storytime Trail is still open at Torre Abbey. 

It is great that the Abbey were able to secure this exhibition and event and are part of the celebration of the anniversary of this classic little book, which was published over 120 years ago.

Hop into this walkthrough experience, where you will be able to immerse yourselves in the story. The little ones of you will be able to crawl under the garden gate, hide in a watering can, and see their reflection in a mirror pool, just like Peter Rabbit himself. There are photo opportunities and activities to take part in along the way.

There will also be the Big Dino Easter Egg trail taking place at Cockington Court, starting on April 7. Make sure you are following them on Facebook or signed up to our One Torbay eNewsletter as they will be releasing more information about this soon. 

Finally, I want to congratulate Cockington Court on being shortlisted for the 2025 Muddy Stiletto Awards in the Best Arts, Culture and Theatre in Devon category. Now they need your votes to help them win. Visit www.devon.muddystilettos.co.uk to cast your vote, I know they will appreciate it.