We have secured legal authority to demolish the privately owned building at 62–70 Victoria Street, Paignton, following emergency action to deal with a serious safety risk in the town centre.

On Thursday 25 June, we were granted a Consent Order by the Magistrates’ Court, enabling us to proceed with full demolition. Gilpin Demolition, which carried out the initial emergency works, has been appointed to undertake the demolition.

From the outset, we have been clear that the safety of residents, businesses and visitors is paramount. Where privately owned buildings are allowed to deteriorate to a dangerous condition, we have the legal powers to intervene and will do so when necessary.

While these powers have not been used by us for many years, this case demonstrates a clear commitment to act decisively where there is an unacceptable risk to public safety and disruption to the town centre.

Council officers are now progressing key preparatory work, including approval of the demolition plan, verification of the 2023 asbestos survey, and disconnection of utilities. Subject to these and other requirements being met, demolition could begin within the next two weeks and, if conditions remain favourable, is expected to take around six weeks to complete. Council officers worked with the building’s owners to reach this resolution, with no delay to the process, enabling us to proceed swiftly with demolition.

All costs associated with the emergency response and demolition will be recovered from the building’s owners, ensuring there is no financial burden on local taxpayers. The long-term future of the site will be determined at a later stage, in accordance with planning requirements.

Cllr David Thomas, Leader of Torbay Council, said: “This situation has caused significant frustration for residents, businesses and visitors, and it is not acceptable for unsafe buildings to put people at risk or cause prolonged disruption in the heart of our town centre.

“The council has now secured the legal authority to move forward with demolition. Our priority is clear: to remove the unsafe structure, reopen Victoria Street as quickly as possible, protect the public, and ensure costs are recovered from the owners rather than local taxpayers.

“Building owners have a responsibility to maintain their properties so they do not become a danger to others. Where that responsibility is not met, the council will take action. While these powers have not been used for many years, we will not hesitate to use them where public safety is at risk.

“During these works, Paignton town centre remains open and accessible. I encourage residents and visitors to continue supporting local businesses during this time.”

All existing highway diversions and public transport arrangements, including for taxis, will remain in place until it is safe to reopen the road. Further details are available on a dedicated page on our website. Please note this webpage is currently being updated and may not reflect the latest information at the time of reading.

We urge residents to recognise the serious risk to life posed by entering unsafe buildings. Structures such as 62–70 Victoria Street are secured due to significant structural risks, and any attempt to enter them could result in serious injury or death.

Parents and carers are strongly encouraged to ensure young people understand these dangers. Security fencing and protective measures are in place for public safety and must not be tampered with or bypassed under any circumstances.

Further information on the demolition plans will be published on the dedicated webpage as soon as it becomes available.