Torbay Council has moved one step closer to achieving its regeneration ambition for the derelict Crossways shopping precinct in Paignton.
Gaelic Investments who purchased the site in 2009 has agreed in principle the Council’s terms under the compulsory purchase order (CPO).
In September 2020, a CPO was made on the Crossways site after no development proposals had been put forward since its purchase.
Under the redevelopment plans for the site, for which planning was granted in February 2021, are circa 90 extra care and sheltered housing units with commercial space retained on the ground floor for businesses.
Upon completion it is intended that the development will not only provide much needed housing for local people, but also rejuvenate the economic viability of the area that will attract businesses back into the town.
The current tenants of Crossways have been contacted and are being kept informed of progress. In addition, the Council has offered to undertake site searches and provide additional support for relocation.
Anyone with a legal interest in the property are fairly compensated as part of the CPO process.
Cllr Darren Cowell, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance, Torbay Council, said; “For many years the Crossways site has been an eyesore and has had a negative impact on Paignton, specifically the town centre. Whilst it’s not all systems go just yet. Successfully reaching this milestone does move this Scheme forward and demonstrates our commitment to investing in Paignton.”
Cllr Swithin Long, Cabinet Member for Economic Regeneration, Tourism and Housing, Torbay Council, said; “This is great news for Paignton as it means we’re one step closer to being able to move forward with our regeneration plans for the town centre. It also comes at a time when we need to deliver more high-quality suitable homes for local people that meet specific care and support needs.”
It is proposed the redevelopment of the site will be carried out by TorVista Homes Limited, a company wholly owned by the Council.
Later this month a Public Inquiry on the CPO will be held virtually which will address the remaining objection to the purchase. Following the hearing the appointed Inspector will review all the evidence provided before making a final determination.
Once the outcome of the Public Inquiry has been published, the Council will take the necessary action in terms of moving forward with the regeneration proposals.
On Boxing Day 2020 it was announced that £13.36m of Future High Streets Funding had been secured by the Council 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 our towns, local economy, transport, infrastructure, culture and heritage will provide people in Torbay with spaces to thrive and future proof the area for generations to come. Find out more about the work happening across Torbay to regenerate town centres via: www.torbay.gov.uk/regeneration
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