Fresh start for the ‘jewel’ in Torbay’s crown

Torquay’s historic Cockington Court could soon be re-established as one of the ‘jewels’ in the English Riviera’s crown.

Members of Torbay Council’s overview and scrutiny committee discussed a report which said a new strategy was needed to make the most of the 16th Century manor house.
“It really is the jewel in our crown,” said Cllr Mark Spacagna (Con, Cockington with Chelston). “There is so much potential there. I just hope that this turns out to be fantastic news for Cockington.”
The report outlined the operation of the Court, which includes more than 40 businesses and the ‘Sea Change’ units beside the stable yard. King Charles and Queen Camilla visited and toured the building in July 2022.
Since the closure of the Torbay Development Agency in 2023 the Court has been without a business plan.
Councillors heard that a new plan was being drawn up and would be published in the summer.
The collapse of the Torbay Coast and Countryside Trust, which managed the open spaces around Cockington Court, also contributed to the need for a new strategy.
The meeting heard that the Court was a major heritage and cultural asset for Torbay, but work was needed to secure its long-term success and sustainability.
Without it, the Court may not be able to fulfil its potential, the report said.
Cllr Chris Lewis (Con, Preston) said Cockington Court’s potential as a wedding venue was not being realised, and its cafe was losing money.
“Its potential is enormous, but we have got to get it right,” he said. “At the moment we haven’t got it right.”
The Sea Change units were designed to mimic the success of Dartington’s Cider Press complex, he said, but had always struggled.
“I’d like to see Cockington Court working more closely with the village,” he said. “We need to work with the hotels and other facilities to push the fact that Cockington is a great place to go.
“We’ve got to make sure our thinking is all joined up.”
Cockington Court is Grade Two-star listed on the English Heritage register. It dates back to Saxon times, and is mentioned in Domesday Book. The current house was built in the 16th century, when it was owned by the Cary family.
After the meeting Cllr Spacagna said: “I have been an advocate for Cockington for a number of years so I very much welcome this business plan and operations report. It is long overdue.
“I hope it will give Cockington Court and the businesses in Cockington the support they so rightly deserve.”