Familiar brand eyes derelict Torbay garage site

A derelict Paignton garage could have a new lease of life as a car rental outlet.

Enterprise Rent-a-Car has filed a planning application with Torbay Council to take on part of the former Torbay Motors/Speedwell Kia garage at the junction of Totnes Road and Fisher Street.

Screwfix already has permission to open an outlet selling builders’ supplies in the other part of the large unit.  

Enterprise put in a previous application for the site in February 2024, but it was unsuccessful because of highway issues, vehicle movement, parking and its impact on the local neighbourhood.

Now specialist consultants have come in to address the concerns.

Enterprise intends to take a long lease on the site, saying it will act as a catalyst for regeneration in the area while creating new jobs and stimulating the local economy.

Work will include a refurbished office, a new shop front and refurbished hard standing.

A statement from the applicant says: “The proposed development will bring the presence of a multi-national brand to the area, which will provide strong employment over a long-term period.

“Enterprise will collaborate with local businesses to develop partnerships from vehicle repair, restoration, cleaning and maintenance, thereby contributing to the wider economy.”