We are undertaking a full update of our Local Plan to guide development in Torbay for the next 20 years. We are now consulting on the draft Local Plan (Regulation 18 stage) and would like people's views on the key issues and options.

This consultation covers a range of planning issues and supporting policies that will help bring forward appropriate development in Torbay. The plan covers areas such as housing, affordable homes, climate change, environmental protection, economic growth, job creation, transport, infrastructure, public spaces and sports facilities.

When adopted, the Local Plan will be the legal starting point for determining planning applications for the use of land. It will also set an overarching framework that locally prepared neighbourhood plans must follow. 

Following the consultation, the council will review all comments to help shape the final "Publication Version" of the plan. There will be less opportunity to influence the plan at the later stages, so now really is the time for people to have their say.

Cllr Chris Lewis, Cabinet Member for Place Development and Economic Growth at Torbay Council said; "The consultation will allow local people to tell us what they think about our plans. The plans cover housing numbers, climate response, economic growth, and how we intend to balance development with the protection of Torbay's environment and valued green spaces.

"We've made a real effort to focus as much development as possible on previously developed and brownfield sites. This focus sits alongside our 'Hotels to Homes' initiative that will bring forward much needed smaller dwellings for local people. Taken together, these approaches will direct a significant amount of development away from green field sites.

"Take this opportunity to read through our draft Local Plan and have your say."

The consultation will run from 28 November 2025 to 26 January 2026. This allows over eight weeks for people to review the plan and provide their comments.

Have your say by visiting the council's consultation pages at -  Consultations - Torbay Council

ENDS