Next phase of demolition at the Victoria Centre, Paignton to begin in early February

In early February, work begins on the next phase of demolition at the Victoria Centre site in Paignton. This marks a continuation of the phased demolition programme, a key step towards unlocking the entire site for future redevelopment.

Torbay Council officers working closely with its Regeneration Partners, Willmott Dixon and Milligan, are developing long-term plans that will deliver around 200 new homes in the area. In the meantime, all partners are committed to ensuring the town centre remains accessible and vibrant. As part of this commitment, the existing temporary surface-level car park at the Victoria Centre site will be expanded by a further 80 spaces (subject to final layout plans and planning). These additional spaces are aiming to be open and operational ahead of the 2026 English Riviera Airshow (29-31 May).

The reprovision of parking at the Victoria Centre site is an important measure to prepare for the eventual loss of the temporary car park at the former Crossways site, where construction of 91 extra care homes is expected to begin in the second half of 2026. There are several interconnected projects planned for Paignton town centre, and a coordinated programme of activity is being developed to ensure they progress in a cohesive sequence.

The demolition work will be managed by Wring Group, who is well-acquainted with the area and the sites neighbours, having successfully delivered earlier phases of demolition. Throughout the works, access to Poundstretcher will be maintained for both shoppers and deliveries.

This next stage of demolition marks another important milestone in the regeneration of Torbay’s town centres. Working alongside partners, we are progressing community‑led plans to deliver much‑needed housing for local people, revitalise the area, and encourage the return of footfall and businesses to the town.

About the demolition work

Demolition of vacant retail units 4–7, along with the creation of the temporary car park, will take place during daytime hours, Monday to Friday, from 7.30am to 6pm.

What to expect

The community can expect pre‑demolition activities in February, including site setup, soft strip‑out, and manual works such as demolition of the gable end. Most demolition using heavy machinery will take place from March through to mid‑April. Work on the car park, subject to planning will take place from April to mid-May.

All works will be undertaken in line with approved Risk Assessments, Method Statements and environmental controls. Dust suppression, noise management and traffic control measures will be in place during the works.

Temporary part road closure – Parkside Road

Parkside Road will need to be partially closed to vehicular traffic for several weeks in early February. This temporary closure is required because certain elements of the demolition must be carried out manually, rather than using heavy machinery, to ensure safety and precision.

• We will do everything possible to keep the road closure as short as possible. As soon as works are finished, the road will be fully re-opened.
• Pedestrian access to properties backing onto Parkside Road will always be available.
• Temporary alternative re-arrangements will be made for refuge and recycling bin collections.

Access

Pedestrian access will be always maintained, including access to the rear of properties. Deliveries will need to use the loading bays on Torbay Road or reverse up to the closed section of the road.

Public toilets and other community-based facilities in and around Victoria Square will remain available.

Access to Victoria car park will not be affected by the work.

Site safety

Safety fencing will be installed around the site to protect the public during the works, with access to authorised personnel only. We kindly ask residents to always keep clear of the site boundary.

Cllr Chris Lewis, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Place Development and Economic Growth, Torbay Council, said; “Paignton is undergoing a huge amount of positive change, and our priority is to make sure the town is prepared not just for the long‑term regeneration that will bring new homes and opportunities, but also for the short‑term needs of residents and visitors. By expanding parking provision, while we develop and bring forward a more permanent solution, we’re ensuring people know Paignton is very much open for business while these exciting projects take shape.”

As with all live demolition, building, or restoration projects, safety fencing has been installed to protect the public from harm. This fencing must not be breached under any circumstances; doing so is an offence and may put you at risk of arrest. The area will be monitored by local security teams, CCTV, and the police. If you witness any attempts to breach the fencing, or notice damage or graffiti, please report it to the police.