Major progress made on Paignton and Preston waterfront scheme as next phase begins
Residents and visitors are beginning to see significant progress on the multi-million-pound Paignton and Preston Waterfront Scheme, with key sections nearing completion and the next phase of work set to begin later this month.
The project, which aims to better protect homes and businesses from coastal flooding while creating a more attractive and accessible seafront, has continued to move forward throughout the busy summer period.
Preston flood defence taking shape
Work along Preston seafront has reached an important milestone, with all foundation slabs now installed and around half of the precast concrete sections of the new flood defence wall now in place.
The next stage of the project will see new lighting columns installed in September, while work on Preston North, between the middle section path and Seaway Road, remains on schedule for completion later that month.
The area is expected to reopen before seasonal dog beach access restrictions change, improving access for both residents and visitors.
A temporary surface will be installed initially to allow the area to reopen sooner, with the final surfacing due to be completed as part of the wider scheme in spring 2027.
Construction will then move to the section between the middle path and The Boathouse from September. While some pedestrian routes will be temporarily diverted for safety, access to The Boathouse will remain open throughout the works.
The Preston phase of the project remains on track to be completed in spring 2027, when enhanced flood defences, improved public spaces and the return of beach huts are all expected.
Paignton North enters final stages
At Paignton North, work is entering its final phase following the successful reopening of parking spaces in July.
New lighting columns and handrails will be installed during September before the remaining site fencing is removed. Around half of the available parking spaces will remain open while these final works are carried out.
Next phase begins at Paignton South
Attention is now turning to Paignton South as the project enters its next stage.
From Monday 10 August, parking between the Vue Cinema and the Paignton Club will be suspended, with the road operating as an exit-only route for vehicles while contractors begin preparing the site. Pedestrian access will remain available.
Motorists should also be aware that vehicle access through Paignton Middle and South will be unavailable for approximately half a day on 10 August while new traffic management measures are put in place.
Parking at Paignton North will remain unaffected.
From Monday 21 September, parking along Middle Green and vehicle access through South Green will also be suspended to allow construction to continue safely. Pedestrian access and access to local businesses will be maintained throughout the works.
Parking and access maintained where possible
Project leaders say they have carefully planned the programme to minimise disruption during the summer season while allowing popular events to continue.
Parking at Paignton North reopened on 22 July, while Middle Green parking will remain available until 20 September. Victoria Long Stay Car Park, offering more than 200 spaces, also remains available nearby.
By continuing work throughout the summer, the project team expects to recover around six weeks previously lost due to earlier delays.
Council welcomes visible progress
Councillor Chris Lewis, Torbay Council’s Cabinet Member for Place Development and Economic Growth, said:
“It is fantastic to see such positive progress being made across both Paignton and Preston waterfronts. Residents and visitors can already see many of the improvements taking shape, with key milestones reached in Preston and parking restored at Paignton North.
“We know that construction work can be disruptive, and I would like to thank residents, businesses and visitors for their continued patience and support while these improvements are delivered.
“By continuing work throughout the summer and carefully planning each phase, we have been able to maintain momentum while still facilitating Paignton’s most popular events.
“The temporary inconvenience caused by the works will deliver long-term benefits, creating a more attractive, accessible and resilient waterfront that can be enjoyed by residents and visitors for many years to come.”
The Paignton and Preston Waterfront Scheme is one of the largest regeneration and coastal defence projects currently taking place in Torbay and is designed to provide improved flood protection while enhancing the seafront for future generations.
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