The remaining objection on the Crossways compulsory purchase order (CPO) was withdrawn prior to a Public Inquiry hearing.
The hearing which took place virtually on 28 September saw expert witnesses from Torbay Council submit evidence to the appointed Inspector on why the acquisition and regeneration of the scheme should go ahead.
Whilst a formal decision has not yet been made, the withdrawal of the final objection moves the regeneration vision for Crossways one step closer.
Under the redevelopment plans drawn up by Torbay Council for the site for which planning was granted in February. The scheme will see the delivery of circa 90 extra care and sheltered housing units with commercial space retained on the ground floor for businesses.
Cllr Darren Cowell, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance, Torbay Council, said; “This is great news for Paignton and its future regeneration plans. As soon as we receive the final Public Inquiry determination from the appointed Inspector, we will take the necessary next steps to ensure we move this scheme forward as soon as we can, which includes the provision of much needed homes for local people with specific care and support needs.”
Cllr Swithin Long, Cabinet Member for Economic Regeneration, Tourism and Housing, Torbay Council, said; “The withdrawal of the final objection is great news for this scheme and for the residents of Paignton who have been waiting a long time for the regeneration of the Crossways site. Whilst we’re not quite ready to start physically working on the site, this does give us hope that we will be able to do so in the not-too-distant future.”
Once the outcome of the Public Inquiry has been determined, Torbay Council will take the necessary action in terms of moving forward with the regeneration proposals. It is anticipated the outcome will be received within the next 12-weeks.
On Boxing Day 2020 it was announced that Torbay Council had successfully secured £13.36m of Future High Streets Funding for the transformation of Paignton town centre. Projects set to benefit from this funding include the redevelopment of Station Square, Crossways and the Victoria Centre.
This is an exciting time for Torbay with a number of multi-million pound projects happening across Torquay, Paignton and Brixham. Investment in Torbay’s towns, local economy, transport, infrastructure, culture and heritage will provide residents with spaces to thrive and future proof the area for generations to come.
Find out more about the work happening across Torbay: https://www.torbay.gov.uk/leisure-sports-and-community/regeneration/
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