Shopping centre is set to be demolished at last
THE long-awaited go-ahead for Torbay Council to demolish one of Devon’s worst blots on the landscape has finally been approved this week.
The Planning Inspectorate has given permission for a Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) on the derelict Crossways shopping precinct in Paignton so that it can begin to knock down the empty shops and multi-storey car park.
The council’s deputy leader, Darren Cowell, said: “For many years, the site has had a negative impact on the town centre. Now we can really move forward in developing the site as an attractive residential, retail and employment space.” The council has permission to build 90 much-needed ‘extra care’ homes, with shops on the ground floor.
The inspector’s CPO decision stated: “There is a compelling case in the public interest, which weighs substantially in favour of confirming the Order”. Last month, Gaelic Investments, which bought the site in 2009, agreed terms under the CPO with the council. In April, the remaining objection to the
CPO by the Royal Mail was withdrawn prior to the Public Inquiry hearing.
Cllr Cowell, Cabinet member for finance, added: “We are delighted to receive this news. Following a lot of hard work, this latest milestone moves us even closer to achieving our regeneration ambition for Paignton.”
Cllr Swithin Long, Cabinet member for economic regeneration, tourism and housing, said: “This is fantastic news for the residents of Paignton, who have been waiting a long time for the site to be demolished and redeveloped. We set the wheels in motion for the compulsory purchase of Crossways back in August, 2020, following requests from local residents to do something with the site. We are that little bit closer to delivering high-quality suitable affordable homes for local people that meet their specific care and support needs.”
Planning for the site was agreed in February 2021. It is proposed the redevelopment of the site will be carried out by TorVista Homes, a company wholly owned by the council.