We are submitting a Listed Building Consent (LBC) application to support a programme of community outreach and engagement as part of the ongoing work to restore Torquay Pavilion.

This marks the latest workstream led by the Council since taking full ownership of the building and progressing plans for its long‑term restoration.

The application seeks approval for two site cabins to be positioned within the existing site compound. These cabins are proposed to open to the public over the summer, offering a space to showcase elements of the Pavilion’s rich social history. The Listed Building Consent application also includes plans for a new viewing area on the eastern elevation (car park side), giving people the chance to look inside the building for the first time in more than a decade. Alongside this, there will be opportunities for the community to share memories, stories, artwork and other contributions as part of a wider effort to help local people reconnect with the Pavilion. Further details on the outreach and engagement programme will be shared next month.

It is important to note that this Listed Building Consent application does not seek approval to begin restoration works. We are awaiting the outcome of the Options Appraisal, which will identify a preferred end use for the Pavilion—one that reflects and celebrates Torbay’s culture and heritage. The findings of this work will be shared in the summer.

Restoration design will progress following the Options Appraisal, ensuring the building and its internal fit‑out are fully aligned with the requirements of the preferred end use.

In parallel, we continue to explore funding opportunities for full restoration in partnership with a range of organisations. Once a preferred end use is confirmed, the council expects to advance these discussions further and move towards securing a positive long‑term outcome for the Pavilion.

Cllr Chris Lewis, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Place Development and Economic Growth, said; “Reaching this stage is the result of a huge amount of hard work behind the scenes, and I want to recognise the dedication of our council officers and specialist contractors who have brought us to this point. Their expertise has been vital in helping us understand the true condition of the Pavilion and in shaping the careful, responsible steps we are now taking. This Listed Building Consent application is another important milestone as we work towards a future for the Pavilion that honours its heritage and reconnects it with the community”.

Timeline of restoration activity

• October 2024 – Torbay Council regains full control of Torquay Pavilion
• January - December 2025 – Building investigative works undertaken
• January 2026 – Public consultation launched to shape future use
• January - May 2026 – Structural and architectural information collated
• May - November 2026 – Restorative design development and works specification
• June 2026 – Options Appraisal findings published
• June 2026 – Community outreach programme begins
• December 2026 - February 2027 – Market testing phase

The timeline presented is indicative and may be refined as the project progresses.