Crossways demolition to start after Spring 2022
A former shopping centre in Devon - dubbed by locals as the biggest eyesore in the South West - is to be demolished.
Last updated 20th Oct 2021
Torbay Council's been told by the Planning Inspectorate it can now demolish the largely derelict Crossways site in Paignton after the owner backed down at a public hearing.
Councillor Swithin Long, Cabinet Member for Economic Regeneration, Tourism and Housing, Torbay Council, 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. Whilst it's not quite time to bring in the heavy demolition machinery just yet, 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 Limited, a company wholly owned by the council.
"Under redevelopment plans for the site, for which planning was granted in February 2021, will see circa 90 extra care and sheltered housing units developed with commercial space retained on the ground floor for businesses.
"Upon completion it is intended that the development will not only provide much needed housing for local people, but also rejuvenate the economic viability of the area that will attract businesses back into the town.
"Before work physically starts on site, a number of legal steps need to be followed. Once we formally publish the notice confirming the order, which is expected to be in early November, there is then a six-week challenge period, followed by reasonable notice being given to the existing tenants of Crossways. It is not envisaged that we will have full vacant possession of the site until spring 2022. "
Councillor Darren Cowell, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance, Torbay Council, 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.
"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.”
On Boxing Day 2020 it was announced that Torbay Council had successfully secured ÂŁ13.36m of Future High Streets Funding for the transformation of Paignton town centre. Projects set to benefit from this funding include the redevelopment of Station Square, Crossways and the Victoria Centre.
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