Cabinet has given approval for additional funding to redevelop Lymington Road Coach Station.

Under the proposals, five new business units will be built and let, with improvements also being made to the public space. New facilities include improved public realm, a new international coach bay, shelters providing weather protection for waiting passengers, wayfaring information, a new and improved disabled toilet and enhanced lighting throughout the car park.

The current buildings which have been vacant since summer 2019 not only offer poor customer facilities for visitors but are prone to vandalism and anti-social behaviour.

In December 2020, Cabinet allocated £850,000 to the redevelopment but owing to a desire to see wider improvements and feedback from community engagement, the scope of the project is now larger than originally planned. 

Cabinet has increased the contribution to the project to £1.36m, funded through the Growth Fund. The increased contribution reflects rising costs and the provision of additional facilities since the original funding decision was made almost a year ago.

The project not only has the potential to provide space for local businesses it may also attract new small businesses to Torbay but will create local jobs and generate around £2.5m a year to the local economy.

Cllr Swithin Long, Cabinet Member for Economic Regeneration, Tourism and Housing for Torbay Council, said; “Some of the existing derelict buildings at Lymington Road Coach Station are beyond their economic life. By redeveloping the site, we’re not only meeting the needs of businesses who are seeking smaller units but we’re improving the space for residents and visitors.”

Planning consent will now be sought for the works, expected to be submitted in December 2021.

The approved funding will be used alongside £1.96m awarded by Heart of the South West’s Getting Building Fund to successfully deliver this project.