Major step in Paignton regeneration as Victoria Centre demolition enters next phase

The next phase of demolition at the Victoria Centre site in Paignton is set to begin in early February, marking another key step in Torbay Council’s ongoing regeneration plans for the town.

The phased demolition programme is part of long-term proposals being developed by Torbay Council in partnership with Willmott Dixon and Milligan, which could eventually see around 200 new homes delivered on the site.

In the meantime, efforts are being made to ensure Paignton town centre remains accessible and well-used. As part of this commitment, the existing temporary surface-level car park at Victoria Centre is set to be expanded by around 80 extra spaces, subject to final plans and planning approval. The aim is for these additional spaces to be available ahead of the 2026 English Riviera Airshow, taking place from 29 to 31 May.

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The increase in parking provision will help prepare for the eventual loss of the temporary car park at the former Crossways site, where construction of 91 extra care homes is expected to begin in the second half of 2026. Torbay Council says a coordinated programme is being developed to ensure several interconnected projects in Paignton town centre progress in a logical sequence.

The demolition will be carried out by Wring Group, who previously delivered earlier phases of demolition at the site and are familiar with the surrounding area. Access to Poundstretcher will be maintained for shoppers and deliveries throughout the works.

What residents can expect

Demolition of vacant retail units 4–7 and the creation of the temporary car park will be carried out on weekdays between 7.30am and 6pm.

Preparatory works, including site setup and manual demolition, will begin in February, with heavier machinery expected to be used from March through to mid-April. Work on the expanded car park is expected between April and mid-May, pending planning approval.

Dust suppression, noise management and traffic controls will be in place.

A temporary part-closure of Parkside Road will also be required for several weeks in early February, as some demolition work needs to be completed manually for safety reasons. Pedestrian access will remain available at all times and alternative arrangements will be made for bin collections.

Public toilets and community facilities around Victoria Square will stay open, and access to Victoria car park will not be affected.

Safety fencing will remain in place around the site and security teams, CCTV and police patrols will monitor the area. Members of the public are urged not to enter the site under any circumstances.

‘Paignton is open for business’

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

“Paignton is undergoing a huge amount of positive change, and our priority is to make sure the town is prepared not just for the long-term regeneration that will bring new homes and opportunities, but also for the short-term needs of residents and visitors.

"By expanding parking provision, while we develop and bring forward a more permanent solution, we’re ensuring people know Paignton is very much open for business while these exciting projects take shape.”

More information on Torbay Council’s long-term plans for Paignton is available at www.torbay.gov.uk/news/pr9387/