David Thomas: Big wins at UKREiiF and airshow ready for lift-off

I’m writing this column after just returning from UKREiiF, the UK’s largest investor and developer conference and exhibition.

As I mentioned last week, this was our third-year attending, and it continues to be a fantastic opportunity to showcase Torbay - our place and our ambitions - to a wide and influential audience.

Together with the chief executive of the council, Anne-Marie Bond, and Jim Parker, chair of the Place Leadership Board, we proudly represented the Bay. Between us, we took part in numerous panel discussions and delivered keynote speeches, ensuring Torbay was firmly on the map.

It was inspiring to see just how much interest there is in Torbay. Other towns were keen to understand how we’ve secured over £100 million in government funding to kick-start our regeneration programme — and more importantly, how we’ve sustained momentum. Union Square is currently progressing through the planning system, while Crossways already has planning permission, albeit with some minor amendments expected.

We’ve recently completed public realm improvements at the Strand in Torquay, marking a significant milestone in our regeneration efforts. Looking ahead, construction on the seawalls and further public realm enhancements at both Preston and Paignton is scheduled to begin this September, with improvements to Station Square also set to commence soon.

In Brixham, work continues on plans at both the car park and the fish quay as part of our ongoing commitment to revitalising the area.

Step by step, we’re reshaping Torbay — and the impact is starting to be recognised.

Now that I’m back in the Bay, all eyes are on the English Riviera Airshow, which returns this weekend with more to offer than ever before. A huge amount of work has taken place behind the scenes to make this year’s event bigger and better, with this year’s airshow beginning on Friday evening, transforming into a two-and-a-half-day celebration packed with displays, attractions and activities for all ages.

The weekend promises to be a thrilling spectacle for visitors. Among the standout features are the iconic RAF display teams, including the world-famous Red Arrows, who will perform twice over the weekend. Also taking to the skies will be the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight and the Typhoon jet fighter-bomber – always a firm crowd favourite. Civilian aircraft displays will add even more colour and excitement to the packed programme.

One of the most exciting additions this year is Friday night’s launch event. It will begin with a stunning Spitfire flypast at dusk, followed by The Fireflies with their spectacular pyrotechnic aerial display.

To cap off the evening, a dazzling fireworks display sponsored by Anderton and Rowland Fun Fairs will light up the sky at 10pm.

Back on the ground, the event village on Paignton Green will be open from 10am on both Saturday and Sunday. Visitors can look forward to a wide range of family entertainment, food, activities, and live music that will continue into each evening.

Live music will once again be a key part of the weekend, with an exciting line-up of acts performing throughout. The Funk City Band will headline Friday’s programme, with Tors taking centre stage on Saturday. Sunday evening will shine a spotlight on local talent, with performances from a variety of artists, and the weekend will draw to a close with a set from Harbour.

This year’s airshow will also feature our bi-monthly opportunity to talk with us at the resident's engagement stand, which can be found on the North Green opposite SWISCo’s stand. These engagement events provide a valuable opportunity for residents to speak with council representatives, share feedback, and learn more about current projects and plans.

On the stand, there will be information available about the sea defence work and regeneration schemes across Paignton and the wider Bay area, as well as updates on the Local Government Reorganisation that is currently underway. We will be on hand to speak with residents between 10am and 4pm on both days.

To find out more about the full programme, travel and parking advice, visit the official website: www.englishrivieraairshow.co.uk.

The English Riviera Airshow is free to attend and promises something for everyone. Bring the whole family and enjoy one of the Bay’s most exciting events of the year. I look forward to seeing you there.