A major highway improvement and maintenance scheme is set to begin on one of Torquay's most important seafront routes, delivering significant benefits for pedestrians, public transport users, residents, businesses and visitors.

We will be carrying out essential works between Abbey Crescent and Cary Parade from Monday 7 September, with completion expected by Friday 23 October, subject to weather conditions and unforeseen circumstances. The scheme is being funded through Department for Transport capital funding and planning contributions.

The project will improve the condition of the highway, enhance pedestrian safety and accessibility, support public transport, replace ageing street lighting and improve the overall experience of travelling through this key part of Torquay's waterfront.

The works form part of our ongoing investment in the maintenance and improvement of the local highway network. Sections of the carriageway along Torbay Road have deteriorated and now require renewal to maintain safety, reliability and resilience. Resurfacing the road at this stage will extend its lifespan, reduce future maintenance costs and help ensure the route continues to serve residents and visitors for years to come.

A key focus of the project is improving accessibility and creating a safer environment for pedestrians. The scheme will include the installation of a new zebra crossing outside the Princess Theatre, making it safer and easier for people to move between the seafront, attractions and surrounding areas.

Public transport users will also benefit from the introduction of new bus stops at Abbey Crescent, supporting easier access to bus services and encouraging more sustainable travel choices. In addition, all existing street lighting will be replaced with modern, energy-efficient units that provide improved reliability while supporting the council's climate ambitions and reducing future maintenance requirements.

Councillor Adam Billings, Cabinet Member for Pride in Place and Parking, said: "This is a significant investment in one of Torquay's most important seafront routes. As well as carrying out essential maintenance to the highway, we are taking the opportunity to deliver important improvements for pedestrians and public transport users. The new zebra crossing, accessibility enhancements and upgraded bus facilities will make it safer and easier for people to move around the seafront, while the resurfacing and new street lighting will improve the overall quality of the area for residents, businesses and visitors."

Detailed information about the work

The programme has been carefully planned to minimise disruption wherever possible. Work has been scheduled for completion ahead of the October half-term period, the Bay of Lights Illumination Trail and the onset of winter weather conditions. Delivering the scheme during the current season will also help avoid delays that can occur during colder and wetter months, particularly for resurfacing activities, laying the high friction surfacing for the new zebra crossing and the new line marking, which require dry conditions and suitable temperatures.

Throughout the majority of the project, traffic will continue to flow in both directions, with one lane maintained in each direction. A short-term one-way closure on the seaward side of the route will be required towards the end of the programme to allow resurfacing works to be completed safely. During this period, a clearly signed diversion route will be in place, and advance notice will be provided.

Businesses, hotels, attractions, the marina and harbour will remain open and accessible throughout construction. Nearby car parks, including Shedden Hill and Fleet Walk, will continue to be available. Some temporary parking and loading restrictions will be necessary as the works progress, and motorists are encouraged to follow local signage.

Council teams have engaged with local businesses and organisations ahead of construction commencing and will continue to work closely with stakeholders throughout the project. Residents and businesses will be kept informed as works progress, with every effort made to minimise disruption and complete the scheme as quickly and efficiently as possible.

The scheme includes carriageway resurfacing and highway maintenance works, replacement of all street lighting with modern energy-efficient units, installation of a new zebra crossing outside the Princess Theatre, creation of new bus stops at Abbey Crescent, removal of redundant transport infrastructure, repurposing of space for parking provision, and a series of improvements designed to enhance accessibility and pedestrian movement throughout the area.