Dave Thomas: Bay of Lights set to shine brighter

We’re still riding the high of what I’d confidently call our most successful English Riviera Airshow to date.

The atmosphere, the crowds, and the overall experience were incredible - and a real showcase of what Torbay has to offer. While we take a moment to reflect on that success, our attention is already turning to the other much loved events that take place across the Bay throughout the year.

It may seem a little early to talk about Christmas, but plans are already well underway to ensure this year’s Bay of Lights trail is even more impressive than last year. Over the course of the 2024 trail, more than 1.25 million people visited and took part, an amazing turnout that clearly shows how valued this festive experience has become. Not only is it a highlight for residents and visitors alike, but it also brings a significant boost to the local economy, with increased footfall supporting businesses throughout the Bay.

At last week’s Overview and Scrutiny meeting, (where the Council’s budget was reviewed), we were pleased to announce that there is an underspend available from last year’s Council accounts, giving us the opportunity to invest in a range of priorities across Torbay. One exciting idea, proposed by Cllr Jackie Thomas (Cabinet member for Events) which we’re seriously exploring is the addition of an ice rink as part of this year’s Bay of Lights experience.

An ice rink would be a fantastic feature, bringing a whole new dimension to the festive offer. It would not only be a fun and unique attraction for families and visitors of all ages, but it would also encourage people to stay longer and explore more of what the Bay has to offer during the winter season. From a business point of view, it would drive even more footfall and activity into the town centres, helping to sustain and grow local trade at a time of year that can traditionally be quieter.

Our Events team is currently looking into the practicalities of delivering an ice rink, and we’re keen to hear from any businesses or providers who might be able to help make this a reality. We’re also actively seeking sponsors for this year’s Bay of Lights.

With over a million visitors expected again, it’s a unique opportunity to get your brand seen by a huge audience. Whether you’re interested in supporting the ice rink specifically or becoming a premier sponsor for the entire event, we’d love to hear from you. Please get in touch via events@torbay.gov.uk to express your interest.

Bringing ourselves back to the present day, I wanted to share an update on one of our key regeneration projects - the redevelopment of the old Crossways shopping centre in Paignton.

Together with our regeneration partners, Wilmott Dixon and Milligan, we’ve been working on an updated vision for the site. The revised plans continue to include the delivery of 91 extra care homes for local people at social rent, ensuring that vulnerable residents have access to high-quality, secure, and affordable housing.

But the scheme now goes even further. The development has been expanded to incorporate shared communal areas, a café, and a brand-new, purpose-built Day Centre to replace the current ageing facility at Hollacombe. This new facility will offer improved amenities and accessibility for its users, helping to meet the growing need for modern, inclusive community spaces.

It is useful to note that changes in national legislation, specifically the 2022 Building Safety Act have affected the viability of the original high-rise design, which was granted planning consent in 2021. In response, specialist architectural firm PRP has revisited the designs, resulting in a new scheme that is smaller in scale, compliant with current safety regulations, and more in keeping with the character of Paignton town centre.

We want to hear what you think. A public consultation is now live, and we strongly encourage residents and stakeholders to view the plans and give their feedback. You can take part online at www.torbay.gov.uk/consultations or pick up a paper copy of the questionnaire at Paignton Library. The consultation will run until Sunday 22nd June, and all comments received will help inform the final planning application.

The Crossways project is just one example of the once-in-a-generation work underway across Torbay. With investment spanning housing, transport, infrastructure, culture, and heritage, these projects are all about building a Bay where communities can thrive, businesses can grow, and future generations can prosper.