Dave Thomas: Backing local jobs, businesses and a brighter Bay

I was delighted that Torbay once again played host to the Torbay Jobs Fair last week.

Organised by our hardworking Economy Team in partnership with Job Centre Plus, the fair offered anyone looking for work the chance to meet employers face-to-face, discover vacancies and learn more about the opportunities right here on their doorstep.

The response was outstanding. Hundreds of jobseekers came through the doors to meet more than 50 employers and skills providers drawn from a wide range of sectors including hospitality, health and social care, construction, retail and the creative industries. Positive conversations were held, valuable connections were made, and a number of job offers were even made on the day. It was a clear reminder that there are real opportunities in Torbay and that our local economy is alive with potential. My thanks go to every business and organisation that took part and helped to make the event such a success.

Supporting our business community doesn’t stop there. This week (Thursday 16th October) we are proud to be a silver sponsor of the Riviera Connect EXPO, one of the Bay’s most important networking and learning events. The EXPO brings together the business, tourism and hospitality sectors for a full day of discussion, innovation and practical support. Its purpose is to strengthen local enterprise and promote collaboration, this aligns perfectly with our long-term strategy to grow Torbay’s economy and create high-quality jobs for local people.

Council teams will be on hand throughout the day with stands showcasing the services, partnerships and opportunities we offer to help businesses start up, grow and thrive. Delegates will also hear from our Director of Regeneration, David Carter, and Chris Wheeler from Willmott Dixon, who will provide an update on the multi-year regeneration partnership that is driving the revitalisation of our three town centres in the English Riviera. Their presentation will highlight the progress already made, the investment secured, and the exciting plans still to come.

By backing local employers, encouraging investment and supporting entrepreneurship, we can create the sustainable economic growth that underpins a healthy, happy and prosperous Bay for everyone. Strong businesses mean more jobs, more training opportunities, and a more vibrant community life for residents and visitors alike.

Looking ahead, our popular winter parking promotion will return once again, running from Friday 28th November to Friday 2nd January 2026. During this period motorists will be able to pay for one hour and stay all day in selected council car parks. This simple but effective initiative makes it easier for residents and visitors to enjoy everything our towns have to offer throughout the festive season, while also giving an important boost to our high streets.

And there will be plenty to enjoy. This year’s Bay of Lights festival promises to be even bigger and brighter than before, stretching across Torquay, Paignton and Brixham with dazzling displays, interactive installations and family-friendly entertainment. For the first time in many years, Torbay will also welcome a real ice rink, adding a new dimension to the celebrations and bringing some extra festive magic for children and adults alike. Whether you are shopping for gifts, enjoying a meal in one of our restaurants or simply soaking up the atmosphere, the winter parking offer will help you stay longer and experience more.

The combination of affordable parking and a packed programme of seasonal events is designed to support our local businesses at the most important trading period of the year. Every extra visit, every extra hour spent in our town centres, helps sustain jobs and keeps money circulating in the local economy. It’s another example of how we can all play a part in keeping Torbay vibrant and welcoming.

Before I sign off, I’d also like to remind everyone to complete our Residents’ Satisfaction Survey if you haven’t already done so. Your views are invaluable in helping us understand what is working well and where we need to improve. The survey is open until Sunday 2nd November and only takes a few minutes to complete. You can find a link on the Consultations page of our website, and, if you prefer to discuss in person, the team and I still have more pop-up events across the Bay during October. Make sure you views are heard and recorded.

Events such as the Jobs Fair, the Riviera Connect EXPO and the Bay of Lights are more than dates in the diary—they are practical demonstrations of our shared commitment to build a stronger, fairer and more prosperous Torbay. By supporting local businesses, encouraging new investment, and listening carefully to the voices of our residents, we are laying the foundations for long-term success.

Together we can keep Torbay moving forward, creating opportunities for our young people, supporting those who want to retrain or start a business, and ensuring our Bay shines brightly this winter and well into the future.