Torbay Council says it has stepped in to address safety concerns surrounding the building at 62-70 Victoria Street in Paignton after no action was taken by the owners.
Engineers from the council were on site on Sunday and again on Monday, meeting with contractors to assess the available options and determine the safest course of action.
In a statement issued today, the council confirmed it is now using emergency powers to ensure the building does not pose a risk to the public.
A spokesperson said: “In the absence of action from the owners, we are using our emergency powers to ensure the building does not pose any risk to public safety, which remains our top priority.”
The announcement comes just days before the English Riviera Airshow, with large crowds expected across Torbay this weekend. The council says teams will continue working throughout the week to maintain public safety and minimise disruption to transport links in the area.
Residents and visitors travelling into Paignton are being advised to use the seafront routes where possible and to check for updates from public transport operators before setting off.
The taxi rank at Paignton Railway Station is currently inaccessible due to the ongoing safety measures. Alternative taxi ranks are available at both ends of Torbay Road.
Pedestrians are also being asked to follow the marked walkway when accessing bus and rail services nearby.
Torbay Council says further updates will be provided over the coming days as work continues at the site.
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