A new phase of essential remediation work on Oldway Mansion’s historic West Tower has begun, supported by £166,109 from Historic England and £234,226 of additional funding from Torbay Council.
The works will address key structural issues and mark another significant step in securing the future of one of Torbay’s most iconic heritage landmarks. This combined funding package will support a programme of specialist structural and conservation works, including essential repairs to the roof, floors and structural framework. These are key priorities identified during earlier inspections and preparatory activity.
This latest grant builds on extensive work already underway at the site. In October 2025, Torbay Council commissioned specialist teams to carry out essential conservation repairs after inspections confirmed deterioration to the roof coverings and dormers on the West Tower.
These works form part of the wider restoration programme supported by £8 million in UK Government funding and £1 million from Torbay Council, which together represent the first major phase of Oldway’s long-term restoration.
Oldway Mansion, built by Isaac Singer, inventor of the Singer sewing machine, and subsequently remodelled by his son Paris, in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, is a landmark of national and local significance. Modelled on the grandeur of French palaces, the mansion opulent interiors, formal gardens and striking architectural flourishes that reflected the Singer family’s status and character.
The West Tower, part of the former Riding School and Banqueting House and a distinctive element on the mansion complex, has been subject to structural decline. Its conservation is a vital component in safeguarding Oldway’s original historic fabric and ensuring the building’s long-term future.
Oldway has been on Historic England’s Heritage at Risk Register since 2023, reflecting the scale and importance of the restoration needed to protect this much-loved site.
Cllr Chris Lewis, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Place Development and Economic Growth at Torbay Council, said: “This investment from Historic England enables us to press ahead with the next critical phase of conservation on the West Tower. These works build on the detailed inspections, scaffolding and preparatory activity already completed and form part of our wider ambition to restore Oldway as a landmark cultural and community asset.”
“We are grateful for the continued partnership with Historic England and the funding that is helping us stabilise the building and move ever closer to restoring Oldway for the whole community.”
Rebecca Barrett, South West Regional Director at Historic England, said: “Projects like this deliver so much more than just the repair of old buildings – they strengthen local economies, bring communities together, and instil a genuine sense of pride in what makes a place special. That’s why we’re pleased to have awarded a grant for the West Tower repairs, and to support Torbay Council in their ambitions to secure the future of Oldway.”
Members of the public are welcome to continue enjoying the grounds of Oldway and the sporting facilities available on site, which remain open throughout the restoration period. However, for safety reasons, access to the building itself remains strictly prohibited, as the West Tower and wider mansion are currently surrounded by extensive scaffolding and active conservation works.
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