Marine technology firm outlines plans behind South Devon College expansion

A marine technology company has outlined why it wants to establish a new operational base at South Devon College as part of plans submitted to Torbay Council.

ARC Marine has applied for planning permission to change the use of part of the college's car park to create an operational support facility for the business.

The company, which is headquartered at The Beacon in Torquay, says the proposal is needed to accommodate its expanding operations while keeping its research and innovation work firmly rooted in Torbay.

A spokesperson for ARC Marine said: "ARC Marine's operations have expanded, and we have identified a need for additional operational space close to our headquarters at The Beacon in Torquay.

"Subject to planning approval, the proposed site at South Devon College would provide a practical and well-located base that supports our existing operations while enabling the business to remain firmly rooted in Torbay."

If approved, the site would be used for operational support activities including the storage, preparation and coordination of equipment for marine projects across the UK and overseas.

The company said the facility would also support its research and development programme while complementing, rather than replacing, its existing headquarters.

"The site would primarily be used for operational support activities, including the storage, preparation and coordination of equipment used on our marine projects in the UK and overseas, as well as research and development," the spokesperson said.

"It would complement the work undertaken at The Beacon, which will remain our principal headquarters and the main centre for our research, innovation, engineering and collaborative work."

ARC Marine says the additional capacity would free up space at The Beacon for the continued development of marine technologies and nature-based solutions.

The business also believes the proposal will help support future growth in Torbay.

"ARC Marine has grown significantly over recent years, and we are proud to be creating skilled employment opportunities in Torbay," the spokesperson said.

"While it is too early to confirm the number of roles that may be directly associated with this proposal, having suitable facilities in place is important to supporting the company's continued growth and the creation of future opportunities."

The company added that remaining in Torbay is central to its long-term ambitions.

"The company was established here, our headquarters and much of our team are based locally, and we believe the area has the skills, coastline and marine heritage required to become an internationally recognised centre for marine innovation, research and sustainable ocean technology."

ARC Marine also said it hopes to strengthen its links with South Devon College through work experience, student placements and wider engagement opportunities.

"We have already supported students through work experience, course placements and wider engagement activities, and we would welcome further opportunities to collaborate with the college and give students greater exposure to marine science, engineering, manufacturing and sustainable technology."

The planning application is currently awaiting a decision by Torbay Council.