Torbay Council has exercised its emergency powers to protect public safety following the demise of the privately owned building at 62-70 Victoria Street, Paignton.
Over the Bank Holiday weekend, council officers were called to Paignton town centre, after it was reported that 62-70 Victoria Street had significantly deteriorated. A road closure was immediately put in place to safeguard the public.
Under its emergency powers, the council has appointed Gilpin Demolition to remove the unsafe parts of the structure. Preparatory work is taking place today, with the necessary plant and equipment arriving on Wednesday morning. The initial phase will involve removing the failed central and right-hand fourth-floor dormer and the affected third-floor structure beneath it. Engineers will then reassess the building to determine whether further work is required.
Public safety remains the council’s top priority with a range of measures in place to maintain safe access for pedestrians and support access to local businesses and public transport.
In November 2025, serious structural concerns about the building were raised by the owners’ engineer. The engineers report made recommendations for the owner to act on. At that time, the council facilitated an emergency footway closure to allow scaffolding incorporating crash decks and pedestrian safety netting to be installed. Since then, the council’s engineering and building control teams have continued to monitor the building. Earlier this month, further deterioration was observed, prompting the council to begin the process of using its legal powers to intervene.
Council officers are taking legal advice on the options available to them once the emergency works have been completed and the immediate safety risks have been addressed.
With the English Riviera Airshow taking place this weekend, the council is doing everything possible to improve public access around the affected area. Decisions on whether any part of the closed road can reopen will be made later this week once engineers have assessed the situation. Pedestrian access will be maintained throughout and, where possible, enhanced to ensure the thousands of expected visitors can move safely through the area.
Cllr David Thomas, Leader of Torbay Council, said; “The council has stepped in using its emergency powers because the building is now considered dangerous and immediate action was required. We had hoped since last November that the owners would address the long‑standing issues identified by their own engineer, but unfortunately this has not happened, and the building has deteriorated to the point where it poses a serious risk to the community.
“Our intervention does not mean the council is taking ownership of the building, nor does it signal the start of a Compulsory Purchase process. We would very much welcome the owners bringing forward clear plans for the future of this building, which has for too long blighted the experience of Paignton town centre.
“The work to this building does not affect this weekend’s English Riviera Airshow. Anyone planning to attend is advised to pre‑book parking, allow extra time to reach their chosen car park, and check public transport timetables before travelling. If you are able to walk or cycle into Paignton, we strongly encourage you to do so.”
Emergency works began today, Wednesday 27 May, with work expected to take place between 8am and 6pm. Appropriate dust-suppression measures will be in place throughout the works to minimise any impact on neighbouring properties and the wider area.
Accessing the area
– There is safe pedestrian access to the train station, bus station, local businesses and the library. Signage is being installed to make clear that businesses remain open.
– Due to the safety zone required in front of the building, the taxi rank has had to be closed. Alternative taxi provision is available on Torbay Road. Signage directing passengers to the temporary ranks has been ordered and will be installed once produced.
– A safe access route has been established for Ladbrokes and the residential properties located above it.
– A temporary traffic‑light system is being installed to support safe access into and out of Chief Rentals.
– Torbay Council are unable to maintain a cycle route through the area because of the size of the safety compound required in front of the building.
– Bus users are advised to check with individual operators before travelling for the latest service times and route information.
– Hyde Road car park remains open as normal.
– Vehicles can continue to travel along Hyde Road, through Station Square and down Torbay Road. However, vehicles cannot exit Torbay Road or Station Square onto Hyde Road. All motorists must follow the road‑closure signs in place.
The council will provide further information as and when it becomes available.
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