Landmark town hall put on the market
ONE of Torquay’s landmark historic buildings has been put up for sale. The old Town Hall in Union Street could be turned into flats or be used by a business, say agents.
The building, which was once used as the council’s headquarters, is on the market for £200,000. The current owner, well-known local hotelier Keith Richardson, bought it in 2021.
Paul Bettesworth, director of Bettesworths estate agents said: “This is a substantial landmark property in the very centre of Torquay. It has great scope and potential for a variety of commercial or possible residential uses.
“The scale of the accommodation is significant and adaptable. We expect a lot of interest and look forward to receiving all enquiries.”
The old Town Hall was built in the 1850s. During its long history the Grade II listed property has had a variety of uses, including office accommodation, Envy nightclub, restaurant, synagogue, jailhouse and public toilets. The toilets, which have been out of action for some time, are part of the sale.
It is located in the centre of town, at the junction of Union Street, Fleet Street and Abbey Road, overlooking the old GPO roundabout. The stone property has a striking Italianate design and a three-storey bell tower and clock.
It was one of a number of council assets sold off in 2009. Since then various plans to redevelop it have come to nothing.
In 2021, WMN sister website DevonLive was given a tour of the premises. Photos showed it was in a state of disrepair. Last year it was reported that Mr Richardson planned to redevelop it into five apartments.
The Bettesworths sales brochure for the property says: “The largely open layout of the building lends itself to conversion or to residential or to continue in a variety of possible commercial uses, subject to any necessary consents.
“Internally, the property is in poor condition and requires full refurbishment.”