Torquay, a seaside town in South Devon, is set to undergo a substantial £70 million regeneration project aimed at revitalising its image and addressing longstanding issues of neglect and anti-social behaviour. This initiative comes amidst growing concerns from residents, some of whom have described parts of the area as a “hellhole” due to rising litter and apparent drug paraphernalia littered throughout the streets.

Historically known for its picturesque beaches and vibrant tourist industry, Torquay has seen a decline in its appeal as a holiday destination in recent years. Local residents have expressed their fears about safety, with some indicating they feel unsafe walking through certain areas. A resident, speaking to Devon Live, stated, “It’s very bad,” lamenting the lack of response from local authorities. They highlighted the stark contrast between the town's tourist image and the reality just a short distance from popular visitor spots, commenting, “It annoys me when you read all these pieces about Torquay being such a lovely place, yet, just two minutes from where the tourists walk up and down, you have this horrendous thing.”

In response to these challenges, Torbay Council has announced plans for a new hotel and other developments in The Strand area of the harbourside. The council hopes this project will not only transform the local landscape but also significantly boost tourism and employment opportunities. The new luxury hotel, described as a “high-quality landmark,” is set to feature 154 rooms, a luxurious ground floor space, and a staircase that will link the harbourside with The Terrace, promising stunning views over the harbour. According to The Sun, the development is expected to provide around 80 full-time jobs and draw approximately 86,000 visitors to Torquay over the next three decades.

As the project moves forward, local officials express optimism that the regeneration scheme will help remedy the visible signs of decline and restore Torquay to its former glory as a sought-after tourist destination.

Source: Noah Wire Services