Thirty Torquay projects will share government millions

Projects designed to revitalise some of Torquay’s most deprived communities could start to see government money in their bank accounts as early as April next year.

The money from the government’s ‘Pride in Place’ fund could help to bankroll projects such as the redevelopment of the Strand, the Melville Community Hub and a ‘Festival of Torquay’ in 2027.
“There have been so many brilliant ideas,” said Torbay Council interim place manager JonPaul Hedge. “And there are some super-quick wins in terms of delivery.”
Thirty projects have been selected for further consideration by the council’s Torquay Place Leadership Board as part of a 10-year strategy to spend £20million on schemes to make life better, healthier and happier for residents.
The money is just for Torquay, but other funding streams are being tapped for other parts of the bay. Parts of Paignton have already had millions of pounds pledged.
When Torquay’s money starts to come through in April, the board wants the town to feel the benefit quickly.
“We need something to come forward in the first six months that is very visible for everyone to see,” said Tracey Cabache of Torbay Communities.
Board chairman Jim Parker said all 30 projects should be delivered over the next 10 years, and those that had not made it on to the list of 30 could be helped to find other sources of funds.
Torbay MP Steve Darling said decisions about where the money goes should be ‘as inclusive as possible’, with the voice of the community heard loud and clear. The government has stressed that community engagement and participation are crucial.
The 30 projects for consideration are – Physically improving our town centre (including crime): Business-Led Town Centre Improvements; Connecting Places – Public Realm Activation; Strand Redevelopment; Royal Lyceum Theatre Revitalisation; Homeless Hostel; Community Health and Harm-Reduction Hub; St Mary Magdalene Church Community Provision; Town Centre Drop-In for Disabled and Vulnerable People; Support and Wellbeing Hub; Hidden High Street Creative Space; Capacity Building Using Heritage Assets; Festival of Torquay 2027 and Higher Union Street Regeneration.
Physically improving our neighbourhoods (including crime and affordable housing): Ellacombe Community Multi-Use Facility; Melville Community Hub; Barton Downs & Acorn Centre Reinvention; Barton Recreation Ground Community Hub; Windmill Centre and Windmill Hill; Hele Village Community Clean-Up; Development of Upton Park; Community Info Bus; Sponsor a Path; Transforming play spaces; Steps Cross Redevelopment; Home downsizing – freeing up family homes and Support to access affordable housing.
Work and skills: Continuation of Focus Forward – Mentoring Initiative; Children’s Society Wellbeing Hub; Creative and Cultural Space for Young People; Torbay Creative Exchange.