Residents and visitors are beginning to see major progress on the Paignton and Preston Waterfront Scheme, with key sections nearing completion, parking reinstated along Paignton North, and the next phase of improvements set to get underway.

The project, which will help protect homes and businesses from coastal flooding while creating more accessible and attractive waterfronts for residents and visitors, has continued to progress well throughout the summer. By carefully managing construction activities around major events and busy periods, the team has maintained momentum and kept the project on course for delivery.

Significant progress in Preston

Significant progress continues to be made along Preston waterfront, with all foundation slabs now installed and 50% of the precast concrete sections of the new flood defence wall in place.

The next phase of improvements will see new lighting columns installed in September, while works on Preston North, between the middle section path and Seaway Road, remain on track for completion. The area is expected to reopen later that month, ahead of the seasonal dog beach access changes, providing improved access for residents and visitors.

A temporary surface will be laid initially so the area can be reopened sooner, with the final surfacing to be completed as part of the wider programme in spring 2027.

As work progresses onto the next section of Preston waterfront, construction activity between the middle section path and The Boathouse will begin in September. To ensure public safety, some pedestrian routes will be temporarily diverted, but access to The Boathouse will be maintained throughout and the business will remain open as usual.

The Preston scheme remains on track for completion in spring 2027. Once finished, it will provide enhanced flood protection and improved public spaces, paving the way for the return of beach huts ahead of the 2027 summer season.

Final stages underway at Paignton North

Following the successful reintroduction of parking in mid-July, work at Paignton North is entering its final stages.

Lighting columns and handrails will be installed during September, after which all remaining site fencing will be removed. These works are expected to be completed by mid to late September.

To minimise disruption, the works have been carefully phased to allow around half of the available parking spaces to remain open during the installation period.

Next phase of works to begin at Paignton South

The project is now preparing to enter its next phase, following a decision made with local businesses to continue works throughout the summer and maintain momentum.

From Monday 10 August, Paignton South, between the Vue Cinema and the Paignton Club, will be closed to parking and operate as an exit-only route for vehicles, while pedestrian access remains open. Contractors will use this period to mobilise on site and begin preparatory works.

Vehicle access through Paignton Middle and South will be unavailable for approximately half a day on Monday 10 August while new traffic management arrangements are installed. Access and parking along Paignton North will not be affected and will be open as normal.

From Monday 21 September, parking along Middle Green and vehicle access through South Green will be suspended to allow works to progress safely. Pedestrian access will be maintained, and parking will remain available at Paignton North.

Maximising access throughout the summer

The project team has carefully planned the programme to balance construction progress with the needs of residents, businesses and visitors.

Parking along Paignton North was successfully reinstated on Wednesday 22 July and Middle Green parking will remain available until Sunday 20 September. Victoria long stay car park, which provides more than 200 parking spaces, remains available nearby.

By continuing work through the summer and carefully phasing construction activities, the project is expected to recover around six weeks in the programme following delays experienced earlier in the project.

Throughout the works, pedestrian access will continue to be maintained, and access to businesses will remain available.

Councillor Chris Lewis, Cabinet Member for Place Development and Economic Growth, said: “It is fantastic to see such positive progress being made across both Paignton and Preston waterfronts. Residents and visitors can already see many of the improvements taking shape, with key milestones reached in Preston and parking restored at Paignton North.

“We know that construction work can be disruptive, and I would like to thank residents, businesses and visitors for their continued patience and support while these improvements are delivered.

“Importantly, by continuing work throughout the summer and carefully planning each phase, we have been able to maintain momentum while still facilitating Paignton's most popular events. These events have attracted hundreds of people to the area, supporting local businesses and ensuring the waterfront remains a vibrant destination throughout the busy summer season.

“Our approach has enabled us to maximise access wherever possible, keep the project moving forward and recover valuable time within the programme. The temporary inconvenience caused by the works will deliver long-term benefits, creating a more attractive, accessible and resilient waterfront that can be enjoyed by residents and visitors for many years to come.

“This is a significant investment in our coastline and local economy, and it is encouraging to see the transformation becoming increasingly visible as we move into the next phase of the programme.”