Torbay Council is working with its highways partner SWISCo on a proposal to expand the 20mph zone in Torquay town centre.
This is to improve pedestrian safety in the Fleet Street area and set an appropriate speed in Pimlico, which is already traffic-calmed with speed humps.
The expanded zone would link to the existing 20mph limit on the Strand harbourside area and include most of the main shopping area.
People can have their say on the proposal during consultation from Friday 16 January 2026 to midnight on Sunday 8 February 2026.
The expanded 20mph zone would include:
– Pimlico from its junction with Market Street
– Stentiford Hill Road from Pimlico to its junction with Queen Street
– The ‘GPO roundabout’
– Abbey Road from the ‘GPO roundabout’ to its junction with Rock Road
– Fleet Street to its junction with The Strand and Cary Parade
– Swan Street
– Braddons Hill Road West between Fleet Street and its junction with Montpelier Road
– The Terrace between Fleet Street and Montpelier Road
Cllr Adam Billings, Torbay Council’s Cabinet Member for Pride in Place and Parking, said: “We are continuing our work to improve road safety, particularly for vulnerable road users, by bringing forward new 20mph limits in carefully selected areas.
“A maximum speed of 20mph for these busy roads in Torquay town centre’s main shopping area would help to reduce the risk of conflict between vehicles and pedestrians.
“The expanded area would also provide clarity by joining up with the existing 20mph zone on the Strand following the harbourside regeneration, creating a safer environment for all.
“These plans are only proposals at this stage, and I’m very keen to hear the views of the community. I would encourage people to take part in the consultation to let us know what you think and we will carefully consider all the comments before deciding to make any changes.”
Fleet Street already has restricted access except for buses, some taxis, access to certain properties, commercial vehicles between 6pm and 10am, and emergency and Council vehicles on duty.
Lower vehicle speeds improve road safety for all users, including pedestrians, by reducing the number and severity of collisions. They improve visibility, giving drivers more time to react to pedestrians, and reduce noise and exhaust emissions.
The mandatory 20mph limit would be in force at all times. Enforcement of speed limits like all moving vehicle offences is done by the police.
During the consultation period, letters will be sent to properties in the proposed expanded zone and an online consultation form will be open for people to give their view. Paper copies of the survey will be available in Torquay Library.
All responses will be taken into account before a decision is made on whether to go ahead with the scheme.
More information and a link to the online consultation are available on the website at www.torbay.gov.uk/consultations.
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