Work underway to restore Torquay Pavilion as it celebrates its 110th birthday
The site closed its doors 10 years ago and Torbay Council hope to bring it back into use
Work is underway to determine the future of the iconic Art Nouveau Pavilion on Torquay’s harbourside - which recently celebrated its 110th birthday.
First opened on Saturday 17 August 1912, the building which was granted Grade II listed status in 1973 has undergone many changes during its history – with perhaps the biggest change yet to come.
It has been 10-years since the doors closed on the Pavilion. Specialist survey work to look at the inner core of the building has already taken place, with further intrusive survey work starting in the coming weeks.
Upon completion of the survey work, a fully costed restoration plan will be finalised and considered prior to any final decisions on the future of the building being made.
Cllr Darren Cowell, Deputy Leader of Torbay Council said: "We are currently in discussions to bring the Pavilion back under direct control of the council. If these discussions are successful, it will significantly move the restoration project forward – which we know the community are keen for us to do."
Cllr Swithin Long, Cabinet Member for Economic Regeneration, Tourism and Housing for Torbay Council said: "The restoration of historical buildings such as the Pavilion is incredibly complex, costly and time consuming. We are however, committed to ensuring the right future is established for the Pavilion so it can be enjoyed by visitors once again."
The restoration and future use of the Pavilion is one of several projects benefitting from Town Deal Funding, after the Council secured more than £21.9million to revitalise and regenerate Torquay town centre.