Torbay Council seeks public input on Torquay Pavilion future

Torbay Council Launches Consultation for Torquay Pavilion

Torbay Council has started a public consultation to shape the future of Torquay Pavilion. This comes as work begins on a major Options Appraisal for the Grade II listed landmark.

The appraisal is led by a small team of local consultants. It is funded by Torbay Council, Arts Council England, and the National Lottery Heritage Fund. The goal is to explore long-term uses for the historic building. The aim is to secure a sustainable future for the Pavilion as a year-round visitor attraction while protecting its cultural and architectural significance.

Torquay Pavilion is one of Torbay’s most recognizable buildings. It has a prominent place on the town’s seafront and is central to the council’s plans for cultural and heritage-led regeneration across the Bay.

Public Consultation Details

The public consultation runs from Tuesday, January 6, until Sunday, January 25. It aims to gather ideas and test public opinion on future uses for the Pavilion. Feedback from residents, businesses, and other stakeholders will help shape a shortlist of potential options.

The council wants to hear from young people, including those who may not have visited the Pavilion but recognize its importance to Torbay’s identity. Their views will be vital in understanding how the building could support new cultural activities and create future employment opportunities in the arts sector.

Official Statements

Deputy Leader of Torbay Council and Cabinet Member for Place Development and Economic Growth, Cllr Chris Lewis, stated, “Torquay Pavilion is one of our most treasured landmarks, and this Options Appraisal is a vital step toward securing its long-term future.”

He added, “We want the community to help shape what comes next, and we’re especially keen to hear from young people who may not have been inside the building but understand its importance to Torbay’s identity and future. Their ideas and aspirations will play a crucial role in reimagining the Pavilion as a vibrant, year-round destination that supports our wider cultural regeneration and creates new employment opportunities in the arts and culture sector.”

He concluded, “This consultation is a chance for everyone to influence the Pavilion’s next chapter, and we hope as many people as possible will take part.”

Incentives for Participation

To encourage participation, everyone who takes part in the consultation and consents to be contacted will be entered into a prize draw. Prizes include a pair of tickets to “What’s Love Got to Do With It” at the Princess Theatre on Sunday, January 25, and a £50 Love2Shop voucher for participants aged under 25. The theatre tickets have been donated by ATG.

Market Analysis and Research

Alongside the consultation, consultants are conducting market analysis and research into similar heritage venues in other coastal towns. They will look at what has worked elsewhere and the challenges faced. The findings will help develop a shortlist of potential options, which will be tested before a preferred proposal and business case are put forward.

The outcome of the appraisal is expected to be presented to Torbay Council at the end of April.

How to Participate

Residents can take part by completing the online consultation at www.torbay.gov.uk/torquay-pavilion-future-options/ or by filling in a paper survey at Torquay Library between Wednesday, January 7, and Wednesday, January 21.