December 2023 marked the 175th anniversary of the opening of Torre Railway Station and the arrival of rail into Torbay. The introduction of the railway in 1848 led to growth of the local economy and the development of Torbay as a tourist destination.

To mark the anniversary, we secured funding to create a traditional sign for Torre station. The sign would previously have been a feature of the northbound platform.

The Devon and Cornwall Rail Partnership led on the project. The partnership produced and installed a new heritage sign, called a “running-in board” to mark this significant anniversary. Cllr Chris Lewis and Deputy Civic Mayor, Cllr Barbara Lewis attended Torre Station with members of the partnership to mark the installation of the sign.

Cllr Chris Lewis, Cabinet Member for Place Development and Economic Growth and Deputy Leader of Torbay Council said; “The sign is a great enhancement to Torre Station, a transport and heritage gateway into Torbay for locals and tourists alike.

“Torbay Council are committed to the improvement of all transport gateways to the Bay, a key element of the visitor experience. People will continue to see investment right across the Bay as part of our Operation Brighter Bay initiative. The initiative is a commitment from the council to improve the spaces we all use and enjoy in our daily lives.

“The council’s commitment to Torbay’s heritage is also well established. From Victorian railways to Agatha Christie, Torbay’s history acts as a magnet for tourists. The continued maintenance and enhancement of our heritage and public spaces will combine to secure Torbay’s place as a destination we are proud to live in and visit.”

Find out more about our Heritage Strategy and Destination Management Plan:

Torbay Heritage Strategy - Torbay Council

English Riviera Destination Management Plan

 

 

Torre station heritage sign, people shown left to right - Stephanie Chapman, GWR Station Manager / Richard Burningham, Manager for Devon & Cornwall Rail Partnership / Adam Luscombe, Service Manager, Strategy and Project Management, Torbay Council / Cllr Barbara Lewis, Torbay Council / Cllr Chris Lewis, Torbay Council