A major step towards reopening one of Torbay’s most cherished community assets could be taken next week, as Torbay Council’s Cabinet prepares to consider proposals for the sale of Occombe Farm and adjoining land north of Preston Down Road to Greendale SPV 1 Limited.
The recommendation, which will be discussed by Cabinet members on 9 June, follows the closure of Occombe Farm after the liquidation of the Torbay Coast and Countryside Trust in December 2025. Since then, Torbay Council and SWISCo have overseen the site while exploring long-term options for its future.
If approved, the sale would pave the way for Greendale to reopen Occombe Farm and invest significantly in the site, restoring popular attractions while introducing new leisure, retail and sports facilities for local residents and visitors.
Greendale, a well-established Devon-based business known for its successful farm shop, café and family attractions near Exeter, has outlined ambitious plans for the site. The company also has links to Torbay through its partnership with Waterdance Ltd, which operates a fishing fleet from Brixham Harbour.
Among the proposals are the return of the much-loved farm shop and café, both operating with a focus on locally sourced produce and supporting regional suppliers. There are also ambitions to bring back the indoor play area, a popular feature before the site’s closure.
The wider vision includes the development of indoor sports courts, creating new facilities aimed at promoting health, fitness and wellbeing within the local community.
Greendale would also assume responsibility for managing the farm and surrounding woodland, including environmentally protected areas designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
Looking further ahead, and subject to securing planning permission, the company hopes to develop part of the wider site into a glamping holiday retreat. The proposal is designed to attract additional visitors to the area and provide further support for Torbay’s tourism and hospitality sectors.
Councillor Chris Lewis, Deputy Leader of Torbay Council and Cabinet Member for Place Development and Economic Growth, said the proposals represent an exciting opportunity for the future of the site.
“Occombe Farm was a much-loved part of Torbay’s heritage for many years and has been greatly missed since its closure. We are committed to securing a sustainable, community-focused future for the site.
“Appointing a single operator with a proven track record in Devon, such as Greendale, will help us deliver that vision for our people and our place.
“Our priority is to make Torbay a happy, healthy and prosperous place, where our residents and local businesses can thrive, and Greendale’s vision for Occombe Farm aligns closely with this ambition. Their proposals will not only enhance leisure opportunities for our community but also provide a significant boost to the local economy, with the potential to create up to 200 jobs for local people.”
Further details about the proposals are expected to be released following the Cabinet’s decision and the completion of any necessary legal processes.
The Cabinet meeting is scheduled to take place on Tuesday, 9 June, where councillors will consider the recommendation and decide whether to approve the sale.
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