If you live in Torbay and you have not yet had the chance to do so, there is still time to have your say on a new plan to make homes more energy efficient, protect the natural environment, support businesses to become more sustainable, and make sustainable and public transport (like walking, cycling and taking the bus) more accessible and affordable.

The consultation, ‘A Greener Way For Our Bay’ – aims to engage with local people on the Torbay Climate Partnership’s new plans for reducing the Bay’s emissions and preparing for a changing climate. The Partnership is made up of a wide range of organisations in Torbay from the public, private, community and voluntary sectors.

The survey is being delivered collectively by members of the Partnership along with Tonic and the English Riviera UNESCO Global Geopark, and as well as online and paper surveys there will be a series of engagement activities and events with a range of different groups to find out what people think and help agree Torbay’s priorities. The plan includes a framework which sets the long term direction of travel, targets and ambitions. It is supported by shorter-term actions to help meet the long term plans.

Hundreds of people have already responded to our online surveys, and Tonic have delivered a number of events to speak to people of all ages, which they will continue to do over the coming weeks. So far they have been to Orchard Forest School, Eco Fest, Indigo Goes Green Play and Ecology Centre, Paignton Library, and many more. They also have more events in the pipeline including one with South Devon College, Play Torbay and other community groups such as wild swimming groups, local businesses, as well as continuing to attend major events across the Bay.

Councillor Chris Lewis, Deputy Leader of Torbay Council and Cabinet Member for Place Development and Economic Growth said: “Thanks to all the people who have taken the time so far to give us your views on this important issue that affects all of us .

“If you haven’t yet had the chance to have your say I would strongly encourage everyone in Torbay to get involved with this consultation. Partners are working together to make sure we have an agreed set of priorities so please do take the opportunity to have your say.”

A Greener Way for Our Bay has ten priorities which are:

1. Help more people live and work in homes and buildings that are energy efficient.
2. Make sustainable transport and public transport more accessible and affordable.
3. Ensure that roads and paths are safer and more accessible for cyclists and walkers.
4. Reduce waste and increase recycling.
5. Enjoy and protect our marine and natural environment.
6. Help green our businesses and create new jobs with the environment at their heart.
7. Ensure the community is at the heart of local action.
8. Monitor progress and set up initiatives that celebrate success.
9. Help everyone understand why change is needed and how sustainable choices will make a difference.
10. Work with nature and the local community to prepare for a changing climate.

Find out more and have your say

You can find all the background information, the survey, the Greener Way for Our Bay action plan, and supporting documents on the website. 

The consultation closes on 31 March 2024