Future of Torquay Pavilion: public wants culture, creativity and community

Residents in Torbay have overwhelmingly called for the restoration of Torquay's iconic Grade II-listed Pavilion to become a vibrant, year-round cultural and heritage hub, according to a major public consultation published by the council.

The consultation, which ran from 6 to 25 January 2026, attracted 1,736 responses – the second-highest ever recorded by the council's engagement team – reflecting deep local attachment to the Art Deco building on the harbour front.

More than three-quarters (77%) of respondents were from Torbay, with others from across the UK and abroad, underlining the Pavilion's wider appeal.

The building, which has stood empty and scaffolded for years, is the subject of an ongoing Options Appraisal funded by Torbay Council, Arts Council England and the National Lottery Heritage Fund. Consultants are examining sustainable uses that preserve its historic significance while ensuring financial viability.

Strong support for arts and heritage

Analysis of responses showed clear preferences for a multi-purpose venue. Top suggestions included:

• An Agatha Christie-themed offer, such as a museum, events centre or tea room (mentioned in 28.9% of relevant comments on cultural activities, and 23.7% overall for experiences). Torquay's connection to the crime writer – who lived locally and set some stories in the area – was frequently highlighted as a draw for tourists, including cruise passengers, though some warned against over-reliance on one theme.
• Theatre performances and plays (26.7%).
• Art exhibitions and galleries (25.5%).
• Hands-on workshops and classes (22.1%).
• Live music and concerts (17.6%).

Many also wanted food and drink options (33.2% of responses), such as a café, restaurant or afternoon tea venue with harbour views evoking the building's 1920s Palm Court heyday.

Respondents stressed the need for year-round, all-weather attractions, community access, affordability and family-friendly activities, while avoiding duplication with nearby venues like the Princess Theatre.

A regenerated Pavilion could deliver significant economic benefits, according to nearly half (47.6%) of comments on its potential impact. People envisioned increased tourism, footfall, jobs and spending, alongside visual improvements to the seafront and harbour.

It was seen as a potential "cultural anchor" and community hub, with calls for inclusive spaces that benefit locals, young people and wellbeing initiatives.

Clear red lines

The consultation also revealed strong opposition to certain ideas:

• Low-quality retail, market stalls or "tat" shops topped the list of unwanted uses (29.45%).
• Gambling venues, arcades, nightclubs or loud late-night bars (11.88%).
• Conversion to housing, offices, a hotel or private use (10.38%).
• Chain brands or fast-food dominance (combined around 16%).

There was scepticism about novelty attractions like an ice rink (seen as unsustainable by some) or anything that compromised the building's elegant Art Deco character.

Next steps

The consultants used AI tool Microsoft Copilot to help identify themes from free-text responses. Findings will feed into a shortlist of options, with recommendations expected by the end of April 2026 to support a full business case.

Council leaders described the high response rate and passionate feedback as evidence of "strong interest in local heritage assets and a clear desire to see historic buildings brought back into active use".

The Pavilion, once a popular venue for dances, teas and events, has become a symbol of decline for many locals, who expressed frustration at years of inaction.

A council spokesperson said: "The overwhelming message is that people want to see the Pavilion revived, used and loved again – something genuinely for everyone."

Further updates on the Options Appraisal will be published on the Torbay Council website.