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Union Square

Find out more about our plans to reshape Union Square Shopping Centre

Update 8 August 2024

The project focuses on reshaping Union Square Shopping Centre. It is the flagship project in our Town Investment Plan.

The business case for the project has been developed in line with the Torquay Neighbourhood Plan (approved at a referendum in 2019) and the Town Centre masterplan which was developed with key stakeholders in the community back in 2015.

Both plans set out a long-term vision for Union Square that looks to connect communities, create a town centre that is fit for the future and diversifies the local economy.

We purchased Union Square Shopping Centre after the owners put it on the market during the summer of 2022.

To bring this project forward we are working through options with our Regeneration Partners Willmott Dixon and Milligan. We are anticipating that we will be able to share more information with the community in late 2024.

Why are we looking to make changes?

In recent years the retail position of town centres has changed considerably. We are therefore focusing on reshaping and introducing more diverse uses into the town centre to ensure it is thriving and fit for the future

By introducing more non-retail uses into the town centre, we can

  • Look at opportunities to provide much needed affordable housing for sale and rent
  • Create a better-quality high-street experience that attracts investors and users to the area
  • Celebrate and enhance our cultural and heritage offer and assets

Funding

This project has more than £11million of Town Deal funding allocated to it.

Additional funding and investment from the public and private sector will also be required.

Project timeline

With our Regeneration Partners we are working up options informally with political leaders. We will undertake public engagement to introduce a preferred option in late 2024, full consultation will form part of the statutory planning process.

A planning application is expected to be submitted in 2025.

Physical redevelopment work will commence as soon as possible after the planning process is completed.

In the meantime, Union Square shopping centre businesses are open as usual.

Organisations working on the project

  • Torbay Council
  • Willmott Dixon
  • Milligan

Related news

Business case for flagship project in Torquay’s Town Investment Plan to be submitted for funding approval