David Thomas: Why Torbay’s beaches need a new standard beyond Blue Flag

A familiar blue flag fluttering above a beach has long been seen as a mark of quality.

Yet standards and expectations evolve, and councils must continually ask whether national schemes still reflect local priorities, environmental ambitions and the lived experience of residents. 

Sometimes, improvement means moving beyond a one-size-fits-all badge toward a framework that better recognises local character, strengthens sustainability goals and provides clearer, more meaningful information for the people who use these spaces every day.

That is the thinking behind proposals for the new English Riviera Beach Standards (ERBS), currently being considered by Cabinet this week.

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Rather than relying on the long-standing Blue Flag scheme, this locally designed framework would celebrate the true character, diversity and individuality of Torbay’s 25 beaches and coves across Torquay, Paignton and Brixham.

Our coastline remains one of our greatest assets, shaping not only our identity but also our ambitions for the future. 

The ERBS framework proposes three classifications, ‘Excellence, Quality and Natural Beauty’, ensuring our beaches are recognised in a way that reflects both their environmental value and their distinct appeal to residents and visitors alike.

Crucially, the new framework is not about lowering standards; it is about sharpening them. Enhanced water quality monitoring, a stronger emphasis on sustainability and clearer visitor information are central to the proposals. These measures support Torbay’s environmental commitments, reinforce our UNESCO Global Geopark status, and help create a cleaner, greener and more future-proof Bay.

Under the proposals, beaches would be assessed annually, with flags ready to fly from the very start of the bathing season on May 15. Ratings would remain in place for 12 months, giving residents and visitors a clear and consistent picture of what to expect when they head to the shore.

Equally important is what will not change. Torbay’s beaches will remain dog-friendly, with the same familiar seasonal restrictions continuing as they do now. We know how many local families enjoy our coastline alongside their four-legged companions, and maintaining this balance helps ensure our beaches remain welcoming for everyone.

The English Riviera Beach Standards represent a confident step forward, one that respects our heritage while embracing innovation. By recognising what makes our coastline unique and strengthening our commitment to environmental stewardship, Torbay can set a standard that truly reflects the pride we take in our Bay.

It is particularly timely that we are taking this step now, because in June 2026 Torbay will welcome one of the most exciting international sporting events ever hosted on our shores, on a scale not seen here since the sailing events of the London 2012 Olympic Games brought global attention to our Bay.

The ICF SUP World Cup and Paddle UK Super Festival 2026, taking place from June 24 to June 28, will bring the world’s elite stand-up paddleboard athletes to the English Riviera. From Torre Abbey Sands to Paignton Pier, thousands of spectators and up to 1,000 paddlers are expected to gather for what promises to be a spectacular celebration of world-class sport on our coastline.

Across the festival weekend, residents and visitors alike will be able to watch top athletes from the UK and around the globe compete in sprint, technical and distance races, all set against the breathtaking backdrop of our Bay. Hosting a World Cup event of this calibre places Torbay firmly on the international sporting map and showcases the natural arena that makes our coastline so special.

Beyond the racing itself, the festival atmosphere will extend across the waterfront. SUP Polo in the inner harbour will offer fast-paced entertainment, while a vibrant festival village will provide food, drink and live entertainment. For those keen to get on the water, there will be have-a-go paddleboarding sessions, fun festival races and even an ambitious attempt to break the world record for the most SUP paddlers on the water at one time. Open to all abilities, these activities promise a genuine community moment as well as an unforgettable spectacle.

Major events of this scale showcase the very best of Torbay and bring significant benefits to our visitor economy, supporting local businesses and extending our reputation as a premier coastal destination. With the new beach standards designed to highlight the quality and character of our shoreline, and the SUP World Cup placing Torbay in the global spotlight, 2026 is shaping up to be an exceptional year for our Bay and our communities.

I encourage everyone to get involved, whether by exploring our beaches this season, welcoming visitors to our towns, or joining in the SUP celebrations. Together, we can continue to champion and enjoy everything that makes Torbay extraordinary.