Here’s what’s got Torbay talking this week

Compiled from recent comments on the Torbay Weekly Facebook page, here’s a snapshot of what’s stirring conversation in the Bay — from seafront makeovers to solar farm concerns and speed limit spats...

Pierre pressure

A popular headline last week was the news that a new seafront and dining terrace, belonging to French restaurant Bistrot Pierre, had opened in Torquay.

Located on Abbey Crescent along Torbay Road, Pierre’s on the Perch is already proving popular with locals, with an outdoor bar area selling wine, beer and cocktails and offering a scenic view across the seafront.

One commentator said: “It’s about time they cleaned the whole patio up. It was a mess, which was such a shame.” 

Another added: “It would be lovely to eat there if the weather is OK.”

However, one reader said that Pierre’s on the Perch — also known locally as Old Maid's or Granny’s Perch — was formerly public amenity land, sold to a private developer in 2012. “Granny’s Perch should be reinstated as a public seating area,” they said.

Heart felt

In a show of unanimity, readers defended Torbay Hospital’s services after a report from the Local Democracy Reporting Service revealed that South Devon MPs have turned up the heat on local healthcare providers amid concerns for heart patient safety.

The NHS and the integrated care board (ICB), which administers health services, are considering testing the viability of stopping out-of-hours coronary care in Torbay and moving treatment to Exeter instead.

One commenter said: “I owe my life to the quick actions of the doctors and nurses in Dunlop Ward at Torbay Hospital. I wouldn't have survived if I had to travel to Exeter.”

Another added: “If it wasn't for Torbay Hospital, my husband might not be here today. They do a fantastic job with stroke and heart attack care. Well done to all the staff.”

Others echoed the sentiment: “Having it at Torbay has saved friends’ lives,” and “My coronary care has been second to none. Everything must stay as it is.”

Pushing the limit

An article that failed to inspire such accord was the announcement of a new permanent 20mph speed limit around Torquay Academy.

One reader argued: “They make the zones too small, like the one on Queensway, which excludes where kids cross at Victoria Park, near the shops, and other nearby roads that have seen previous accidents. Many roads without pavements are still 30mph.”

Another agreed: “Absolutely. If we want children to feel safe walking or cycling to school, these zones need to be much, much bigger. As it stands, they’re just ‘safe drop-off’ zones.”

This sparked a broader debate using Wales' 20mph urban speed limit as a case study. Safe, Sustainable Travel Torbay highlighted a 28 per cent drop in casualties on 20/30mph roads and falling car insurance premiums, adding that Wales is gaining global recognition as a road safety leader. 

They argued: “Those who haven't been injured or killed would not agree with reversing the policy,” and cited WHO research supporting 30 km/h default limits.

In response, Steve Knowles pointed to a YouGov poll showing 70 per cent public opposition and a petition signed by over 460,000 people, many from outside Wales.

“This is serious enough for the Assembly to revisit the rule and scale it back,” he said. “Don’t get me wrong — I support speed restrictions near schools — but not everywhere. And even at schools, the bigger problem is parents wanting to park right at the gates where it's restricted.”

Sunny side up?

Another hotly debated topic was a report from the Local Democracy Reporting Service revealing that councillors had been advised to reconsider plans to let South West Water build a new solar farm in Torbay.

Former Torbay MP Kevin Foster raised concerns: “Surprised this article doesn’t mention the Thurrock Council disaster, which nearly went bankrupt over solar investments. They are not just guaranteed ways of making easy money.”

Independent Cllr Darren Cowell countered: “I’ve seen the exempt financial report. It shows direct delivery would deliver a better return.”

A resident then turned the spotlight on existing council developments: “Why are the new business units at the coach park, costing £1,000 per week, still empty? They’re an eyesore. What was there before — a cafe, a booking office, and public loos — was much more useful. Older people now have to hold it until they manage to find alternatives.”

Cllr Cowell replied: “As far as the state of the facilities, this occurred over a number of years. We as an administration took the decision to do something about it, especially as there was so much feeling from residents. And the new facilities also include an improved toilet facility, so no need to cross your legs!

“I now understand that three are left, one is under offer and one is vacant, but I’m getting a definitive answer for you.”

Another reader raised a technical concern about solar farms causing radio frequency (RF) interference, potentially affecting marine emergency communications in Torbay: “There are some concerns around spurious RF (radio interference). It’s widely accepted that cheap inverters (devices to convert solar energy into electricity) can cause spurious RF. Additionally, some of the cable lengths are similar to a full wavelength on 2182 kHz, the international marine emergency frequency; those cable lengths could attract and radiate spurious RF.

“As we are a major seaport here in Torbay, there is a potential to cause interference in that area. This is easily resolved by using quality inverters and getting good advice from Ofcom and/or some great local radio engineers. The last thing we need is Ofcom going around in circles trying to identify and prosecute the people causing interference when it is so easily avoided.”

Crime crackdown

Residents applauded Devon and Cornwall Police after a dedicated day of action led to the arrest of 65 people — 16 from South Devon — on suspicion of domestic abuse offences.

One person said: “Amazing news; this needs to keep going as well with tougher sentences.”

Another added: “Hopefully more men have come forward to report abuse also.”

Close but try

One reader offered heartfelt encouragement to Brixham Rugby Football Club, who narrowly missed a trip to Twickenham and a place in the Papa Johns National Cup Final.

They said: “This team is what local rugby is all about week in, week out. These boys have played with passion, giving great performances home and away all season, so I'm sure that next season we will push on for promotion to National Rugby with the town right behind them.”

Plans take shape

We reported that Torbay Council’s development partner Willmott Dixon has now applied for planning permission to make a start on the transformation of the Union Square shopping centre.

On a hopeful note, one reader said: “Looks amazing. I love the accommodation incorporated into the design — it’s really needed. So much positive news recently.”