We would like to provide local residents and businesses with an update on the proposed coastal defences for Paignton and Preston.

The planning application for the coastal flood protection scheme was granted permission at the Planning Committee meeting held on 24 June 2024. The scheme as approved was informed by multiple rounds of stakeholder and public engagement activity. These took place between 2021 and 2023.

We have been talking to local stakeholders to agree the best way for the scheme to progress. A public engagement session was held in July 2024 to hear what local businesses and users of the seafronts had to say about the timings for the scheme.

We are nearing the conclusion of the procurement process and anticipate that a preferred developer will be appointed towards the end of January.

It is anticipated that the first stages of the scheme will involve the essential diversion of utility services. These will take place over the next three months at a limited number of locations.

We have a clear obligation to minimise disruption to our local tourism, businesses and people who regularly use the seafront areas. The main construction works are likely to follow later this year, after the summer holidays. This approach will allow a clear summer season before the main development starts on this essential scheme to protect the Paignton and Preston communities. 

Construction timelines are still subject to negotiation under the procurement process. We will release any information on the timing of the development as it becomes available.

Cllr Chris Lewis, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Place Development and Economic Growth, said: "The scheme to protect these two communities is now moving into a really exciting phase. The local business and seafront user community are central to our planning. We believe that a phased approach, avoiding development over the summer holiday period, will serve to minimise impact on local businesses and the wider community.

“The council appreciates that there will be disruption to local people and businesses once the main development is under way. This is however a once in a generation opportunity to provide long term coastal defences and public realm improvements for the Paignton and Preston areas. We thank people in advance for their patience as we make these essential improvements for the long-term protection of our communities.”

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Information and updates about the Paignton and Preston Promenade can be found at Paignton and Preston Promenade coastal flood protection scheme - Torbay Council

Artist's impression of the Paignton and Preston Promenade coastal flood protection scheme