Eight-week road closure for gas works stalls Paignton town centre regeneration

Plans to start public realm improvements in Paignton’s Station Square this autumn have been put on hold to allow for essential utility works.

Wales & West Utilities is set to replace several high-risk gas pipes on Sands Road from 20 October, as required by energy regulator Ofgem. The work will involve a full closure of the road for eight weeks.

Torbay Council said the closure, combined with the start of Paignton and Preston sea defence works this autumn, meant it would avoid any projects affecting Hyde Road, Victoria Street, Great Western Road and Torbay Road “for the foreseeable future”.

A new start date for the Station Square scheme has not yet been confirmed. The council is in talks with its grant funder to assess the impact of the delay.

The council has said that its officers will work closely with SWISCo and the contractor to keep the community informed about the planned works on Sands Road. This will include updates on diversion routes, accessibility, and working hours as soon as the details are confirmed.

Cllr Chris Lewis, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Place Development and Economic Growth at Torbay Council, said: “We are naturally disappointed to pause the start of the much-needed Station Square public realm improvements. The utility works are necessary and must be carried out to ensure the continued safety and reliability of vital infrastructure.

"We understand that the additional works and planned closure of Sands Road may cause frustration for the community. We’re working closely with our Highways team and the contractor to keep everyone informed. At this stage, we don’t have further details on diversion routes or access to Sands Road, but we’ll share updates with residents and businesses as soon as they become available.

“Town centre regeneration is complex, but we remain fully committed to delivering a vibrant, accessible and future-ready Paignton. We have several exciting projects already underway – from the restoration of Paignton Picture House to the sea deference works and new homes, we are making real progress.

“We’re grateful for the community’s continued support and input as we work together to shape and deliver a thriving future for Paignton”.

The Station Square project forms part of a wider regeneration programme in Paignton, including:

• Paignton Picture House – restoration due to complete in 2026
• Paignton and Preston sea defences – construction starting autumn 2025, finishing spring 2027
• Crossways – revised plans for around 90 extra-care homes and a new day centre
• Victoria Centre – demolition completed, long-term plans for about 200 homes
• Torbay Road – funding for future public realm improvements, with consultation planned for autumn
• Oldway Mansion – £9m restoration project under way