Updated 3 April 2025
Welcome to our new look harbourside!
This is our first completed project funded by the Town Deal. The space is open for everyone to enjoy.
We have created a space that is:
- Well-connected
- The vibrant place to go
- High quality
- Modern
To make the space more open and inviting we have:
- Created new bus stops on Cary Parade.
- Replaced the roundabout junction and incorporated the Grade II listed Clock Tower into the space.
- Relocated taxi ranks and loading bays.
- Widened pedestrian routes to make room for dining, seating and planted area.
- Put in a new high quality surface material, feature lighting and street furniture.
- Created space for events.
- Added cycle parking.
- Installed a new tribute to Agatha Christie.
Statement – 5 June 2025
Our Torquay harbourside public realm works were designed to enhance the space for pedestrians, public transport operators and increase dwell time in the area. Since the completion of these works at the end of 2024, the space has been well utilised by residents, visitors, and businesses.
The multi-million-pound investment that we have made into the area has altered the road layout. It was purposely designed to slow traffic down which will take time to adjust to, this includes how traffic signals and pedestrian crossings operate. Our highways team are continually reviewing the traffic signal sequencing. We have already adjusted the timing of this sequencing and are exploring further measures to support traffic flow during peak times.
To encourage more use of the bus network, we have been working in partnership with Stagecoach and other bus companies to deliver an improved service. At peak times there are now four buses an hour between Babbacombe and Paignton, seven buses an hour between St Marychurch and Torquay Harbourside, and nine buses an hour between Torquay Harbour and Paignton. Maximum single fares are currently capped at £3, with many costing £2, concessionary pass holders can travel for free.
Motorists can help by adhering to the following guidelines:
- No right turn into Fleet Walk car park from Cary Parade (Soho side): Vehicles must go around the Pavilion roundabout first. Stopping to turn right into the car park causes traffic delays from the Torwood Street direction.
- Keep the Pavilion roundabout clear: This allows buses and other motorists to exit onto Cary Parade (Arcade side) or access Vaughan Road.
- Lane usage outside the Torbay Hotel: The left-hand lane is for travel along to the Strand, while the right-hand lane is for accessing Vaughan Road and Marina car park only.
- No left turn out of Fleet Walk car park: Motorists need to exit onto Cary Parade and use the roundabout to head towards Torwood Street/Babbacombe.
- Use the nearest car park on your approach: If visiting the area, please use the nearest car park on your approach.
We are considering additional signage to improve traffic flow and help visitors to navigate the area. Please be patient as we address the complexities of road user movement and behaviours. If possible, consider alternative modes for your journey such as walking, cycling or public transport, or use alternative routes, especially if you just use the Strand to travel from one side of town to the other. This will help reduce traffic flow in the area and speed up access for buses and those wishing to park, visit and dwell in the area.