It has been confirmed by the Planning Inspectorate that we have been successful in obtaining the compulsory purchase order (CPO) on the derelict Crossways shopping precinct in Paignton.

The decision now paves the way for us to achieve the communities’ ambition to see the site regenerated.  

The CPO decision, which took a number of factors into consideration stated, ‘that there is a compelling case in the public interest, which weighs substantially in favour of confirming the Order’, follows other recent good news. In September of this year, Gaelic Investments who purchased the site in 2009 agreed the terms under the CPO. In addition, the remaining objection on the CPO was withdrawn prior to a Public Inquiry hearing.  

Under redevelopment plans for the site, for which planning was granted in February 2021, will see circa 90 extra care and sheltered housing units developed with commercial space retained on the ground floor for businesses.  

Upon completion it is intended that the development will not only provide much needed housing for local people, but also rejuvenate the economic viability of the area that will attract businesses back into the town.  

Before work physically starts on site, a number of legal steps need to be followed. Once we formally publish the notice confirming the order, which is expected to be in early November, there is then a six-week challenge period, followed by reasonable notice being given to the existing tenants of Crossways. It is not envisaged that we will have full vacant possession of the site until spring 2022.  

Cllr Darren Cowell, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance, Torbay Council, said; “We are delighted to receive this news. Following a lot of hard work, this latest milestone moves us even closer to achieving our regeneration ambition for Paignton. For many years the site has had a negative impact on the town centre, now we can really move forward in developing the site as an attractive residential, retail and employment space.” 

Cllr Swithin Long, Cabinet Member for Economic Regeneration, Tourism and Housing, Torbay Council, said; “This is fantastic news for the residents of Paignton who have been waiting a long time for the site to be demolished and redeveloped. We set the wheels in motion for the compulsory purchase of Crossways back in August 2020, following requests from local residents to do something with the site. Whilst it's not quite time to bring in the heavy demolition machinery just yet, we are that little bit closer to delivering high-quality suitable affordable homes for local people that meet their specific care and support needs.”  

Planning for the site was agreed in February 2021. It is proposed the redevelopment of the site will be carried out by TorVista Homes Limited, a company wholly owned by us.  

On Boxing Day 2020 it was announced that we had successfully secured £13.36m of Future High Streets Funding for the transformation of Paignton town centre. Projects set to benefit from this funding include the redevelopment of Station Square, Crossways and the Victoria Centre.  

This is an exciting time for Torbay with a number of multi-million pound projects happening across Torquay, Paignton and Brixham. Investment in Torbay’s towns, local economy, transport, infrastructure, culture and heritage will provide residents with spaces to thrive and future proof the area for generations to come.  

Find out more about the work happening across Torbay to regenerate town centres.