The Planning system plays an important role in modern society by helping to protect the environment in our towns and cities and in the countryside. Planning regulations have to cover many different situations and even the provisions which affect the average householder are quite detailed.

Torbay recognises the need for development but aims to provide a balance that it happens in a way that will maintain the beauty of the environment in addition to helping change and most importantly ensure the local area has a sustainable future

The town planning service in Torbay is provided by Planning, Development and Policy. Strategic planning in Torbay is the responsibility of the Strategic Planning Group, one of the three sections that comprise the Environmental Policy Team.

There are two area Development Control teams who process planning applications, and give advice to the public and to developers regarding development proposals.The two teams are the North Team (Torquay) and the South Team (Paignton and Brixham).

A third team, Special Projects, investigates enforcement complaints, provides technical back-up for appeals, regulates tree matters in relation to Planning and advises on policy matters.

The fourth team, Conservation And Design, provides advice on design, advice regarding Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas, and advice regarding landscape, and is responsible for maintaining the Statutory Monuments Registers and giving archaeological advice concerning development proposals.conservation

We also have the Building Control team  who give advice on Building Regulations. Building regulation consent should not be confused with Planning Permission. In some cases both may be required.

All our teams are actively involved in associated projects such as planning for the disabled, Best Value, and provide advice to other department of the Council.

The final group, Administration, is principally involved with the processing of planning applications, the provision of secretarial and associated services, and provides support to the other teams.

Contact Us
The reception for Roebuck House is open Monday to Thursday 9.00am - 5.00pm and Friday 9.00am - 4.00pm.

If you would like to see your case officer in person it is advisable to call in advance to arrange a suitable time.

Our officers need to carry out on going site visits therefore we ask that calls are made to the department prior to 11.00am and after 3.30pm for specialist advice.  For enquiries of a general technical nature we will endeavour to have an officer available up to 11am each day.

• Officer Availability
• Surgeries

Telephone

• Development Control - 01803 207801
• Special Projects (Trees) - 01803 207797
• Special Projects (Enforcements , Appeals) - 01803 207802  
• Conservation & Design - 01803 207958
• Building Control 01803 208095  

Fax   01803 208858