News

Public consultation launched on the future of Union Square shopping centre

Residents and businesses in Torbay can have their say on new proposals put forward to transform the high street shopping centre.

Turley is providing expert Planning, Strategic Communications, Sustainability, EIA, Economics and Heritage, Townscape & Landscape services for the project on behalf of Willmott Dixon, regeneration partner of Torbay Council alongside Milligan. The proposed multi-million-pound redevelopment plan for Union Square includes demolishing the existing shopping centre while retaining the current multi-storey car park. The vision for the site includes the creation of new, high-quality homes, retail spaces, leisure facilities, public areas, and an NHS centre.

This redevelopment promises significant economic and social benefits for Torquay and the surrounding area, including a revitalised town centre with an improved public realm. As part of the project, the grade II listed Pannier Market would be restored as a freestanding building and undergo a major refurbishment. A new pocket park is also planned for the corner of Union Street and Market Street.

This consultation is part of a wider set of initiatives aimed at enhancing Torquay town centre.

Cllr Chris Lewis, Deputy Leader of Torbay Council and Cabinet Member for Place Development and Economic Growth, said:

“We’re excited to offer local residents, businesses, and visitors the opportunity to shape the future of Union Square shopping centre. This ambitious redevelopment will transform the area, creating much-needed homes, leisure facilities, and public spaces that will benefit Torquay for generations to come. We encourage everyone to have their say through the consultation and help us build a revitalised town centre that meets the needs of our community.”

Chris Wheeler, Regional Head of Land and Development at Willmott Dixon, said:

“At Willmott Dixon we are passionate about shaping and delivering developments that leave a lasting legacy for the community. Union Square looks to deliver a thriving community through high quality new homes and employment opportunities for local people. By working through consultation with local stakeholders and the community we will be able to ensure we can achieve this goal through collaboration.”

Stuart Harris, CEO for developer Milligan, said:

“Engaging with Torquay’s communities is a vital step in shaping the future of Union Square. We’re eager to hear from a broad and diverse range of voices, including the next generation, to ensure our plans reflect the aspirations and needs of the people who this town home. To get it right for Torquay’s future, we need the community’s ideas and perspectives on how they envision living and working in the neighbourhood.”

Local residents, businesses, and visitors are invited to have their say via a questionnaire or by attending drop in events. More information can be found on the Torbay Council website.

The consultation will run until Friday 20 December, and following the feedback period, the project team intends to submit a planning application in spring 2025, with a decision expected in the first half of the year.

3 December 2024

Images courtesy of Torbay Council and Holder Mathias Architects.