Paignton and how it could look in future endorsed

A far-reaching ‘vision’ for the future of Paignton has been endorsed by Torbay’s decision-makers.

The strategy for the future of the town was put before Torbay Council’s overview and scrutiny committee, with a series of potential projects aimed at revitalising the town centre, the seafront and the harbour.
Some are already in progress, including the refurbishment of the Paignton Picture House, while the demolition of multi-storey car parks at Crossways and the Victoria Centre has been completed.
The document also looks to the future, and among its suggestions is the demolition of the large Vue Cinema building on the seafront to create a ‘sightline to the sea’.
The government has committed tens of millions of pounds to the town over the next decade, and the aim of the vision is to suggest ways of spending it.
The vision says: “The opportunity is there to build on Paignton’s strong identity to attract more visitors, raising spending in the town centre and therefore providing more opportunities for local businesses to thrive.”
It says the decline in physical retail nationally has had a significant effect on the town centre, and suggests reducing the size of the ‘retail core’ while supporting Torbay Road as the primary ‘retail and leisure boulevard’.
Space could be provided for events and festivals, with activities for younger residents including theatres, watersports and an improved cinema offer.
But, said Cllr Margaret Douglas-Dunbar (Lib Dem, Clifton with Maidenway): “I’m a bit disappointed. It lacks a certain pizzazz.
“It just strikes me as ordinary. Paignton is more than just the seafront.”
And Cllr Darren Cowell (Ind, Shiphay) added: “It doesn’t enthuse me.” He said there had not been enough engagement with local people and went on: “It feels as though Paignton is being ‘done to’, and that’s a real worry for me.”
Council leader David Thomas (Con, Preston) said the vision was a ‘statement of intent’ and not a detailed planning document, containing projects which had been talked about for years. “I’m happy to add pizzazz,” he said.
The vision includes the harbour as an ‘opportunity site’, but Cllr Cowell warned against any future ‘gentrification’ of the working harbour with homes locals would not be able to afford.
Cllr Christine Carter (Lib Dem, Roundham with Hyde) said local watersports clubs deserved support, but the council’s director of regeneration David Carter said making the improvements local people wanted could require outside investment.