Torbay Council has introduced a brand-new way of managing and recognising its beaches, designed specifically for the unique character of the English Riviera.
The new English Riviera Beach Standards (ERBS) aim to better protect the environment, improve safety, and give residents and visitors clearer information about the Bay’s 27 beaches and coves.
A more local approach to beaches
The ERBS replaces the previous national system, which followed a one-size-fits-all model. The Council says that system no longer reflected how Torbay’s beaches are actually used or valued.
Instead, the new standards are tailored to local needs—meaning each beach can now be recognised for what makes it special, whether that’s family-friendly facilities or untouched natural beauty.
Three new beach categories
Under the new system, beaches will fall into three categories:
Excellence– top-quality beaches with strong facilities and excellent water quality
Quality – beaches offering a great experience with good to excellent water quality, but less built infrastructure
Natural – quieter, undeveloped beaches valued for wildlife, scenery, and tranquillity
Beaches like Maidencombe Beach and Anstey’s Cove are now recognised under the Quality category—highlighting their natural charm while still allowing things like dog access.
Most beaches included from launch
Out of 27 accessible beaches across Torbay, 25 are included in the scheme this year.
Preston Sands and Paignton Beach will be added later, once improvement works are completed.
Strong focus on water quality
Water quality remains a key part of the new standards.
Testing will continue to be carried out independently by the Environment Agency at designated bathing waters, including popular spots like:
* Oddicombe Beach
* Babbacombe Beach
* Goodrington Sands
* Broadsands Beach
Each site will receive at least 10 water samples per bathing season, and four years of results will be published online to improve transparency.
Currently, 13 beaches in Torbay are rated “Excellent” for water quality, placing the area among the UK’s top coastal destinations.
Protecting nature and wildlife
A big part of the ERBS is protecting Torbay’s natural environment.
The scheme recognises important habitats like seagrass beds and wildlife-rich coves, and avoids over-developing beaches that are best left in their natural state.
“Natural” beaches will feature plaques and online information explaining their importance and encouraging visitors to enjoy them responsibly.
Safer beaches without strict zoning
Rather than separating swimmers and other water users into strict zones, the new system uses a risk-based approach tailored to each beach.
New safety measures will include:
* Seasonal safety boards
* Windsocks at selected beaches
* Annual sea safety campaigns
The Council will also work closely with organisations like the RNLI to keep visitors safe.
Community involvement at the heart
To keep the scheme fair and transparent, a new Beach Stakeholder Forum will be created, bringing together local groups, tourism partners, and safety organisations.
The English Riviera BID Company has already supported the development of the standards.
Looking ahead
Councillor Adam Billings said the new system will help protect Torbay’s coastline while improving the experience for both residents and visitors.
By focusing on local priorities, the ERBS aims to ensure the Bay’s beaches remain clean, safe, and welcoming for future generations—while celebrating everything from busy family beaches to peaceful hidden coves.
For more information, visit the Torbay Harbour website.
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