Could a new community hub be created at Torre train station?
'There's been a huge response, this is something that's needed' says the man behind the idea
Last updated 12th Mar 2024
There's calls to transform Torre train station and build a new community hub there - with potential funding sources now being investigated.
Reverend Nathan Kiyaga wants to create a new cafe, disabled access, bridges and indoor waiting area in a now empty on-site unit in Torquay.
Network Rail, who own the site, say they'll look at any proposals which could save some people having to travel to the main Torquay train station to catch a service to London.
Reverend Kiyaga said: "This building at Torre station has been closed since it moved from being a furniture shop and it's now been closed for some time.
"We would like to see how it comes back to life as a community hub where there's a waiting lounge, toilets for the community, disabled access and for those who might want to go to London on commuter trains to be able to cross the platform to the other side.
"There would equally be a warm environment where students from the grammar schools that are around the corner - and other schools - could come and wait for a while. The sixth form, we imagine, may want to come and do some of their work here or actually wait here for a train especially when the service is busy.
"We want to create a welcoming and warm space for the people of Torre. The community are up for it, they are really excited and when we've done the sense check - or put the litmus paper to the test - there's been a huge response that actually this is something that's needed."
Torre train station first opened in 1848 as Torquay and was renamed Torre in 1859 when the existing Torquay station opened. Roughly a third of a million passengers last year used Torre train station. In 2008 there was a call for it to be renamed 'Torquay central' and the other station 'Torquay seafront' but nothing was ever approved.
Reverend Kiyaga added: "We would love to see that actually the place is safe, guarded from anti-social behaviour when it gets dark because it's not well lit in the evenings. It can be a bit more tidy if we look after it.
It also demonstrates the beauty of the English Riviera, that actually the English Riviera is place with values of cleanliness, also community and a welcome for all."
Reverend Kiyaga says he would hope to find funding for:
- Building Restoration: Undertake necessary repairs and maintenance to restore the
building and premises to a state of good repair, ensuring compliance with all relevant
regulations.
- Enhanced Facilities: Provide upgraded restroom facilities and install a lift for
accessibility, thereby improving the overall functionality of the site.
- Community Hub Establishment: Establish a coffee shop and lounge area within the
premises to serve as a welcoming space for the local community, including
commuters and residents alike.
- Increased Presence: Increase adult presence during peak hours to assist GWR
drivers in managing student passengers, thereby enhancing safety and orderliness.
- Roof and Bridge Maintenance: Conduct cleaning and repair work on the roofs and
the cross-over bridge to ensure structural integrity and safety.
- Signal Box Renovation: Transform the old signal box into functional office spaces,
contributing to the efficient utilisation of the entire site.