Torbay Council has launched an ambitious new programme in a bid to solve the area’s housing crisis. They’re turning former shabby motels into homes that are affordable. In November 2024, the city council adopted the most ambitious plan yet. They even purchased the former Brampton Court Hotel in Torquay, that will soon turn into 14 homes to be given over social housing. The council is currently demolishing the Seabury Hotel in the same resort, which will contribute another 14 homes to the housing stock.
This initiative is part of a much larger and commendable program. It is intended to produce up to 75 affordable homes annually during the next five years. The council aims to address the pressing housing needs within the area, focusing on providing homes that are “affordable to people living and working in the area,” as stated by Torbay Council.
This is a trailblazing scheme, which promotes a standard model that could be replicated. Alan Tyerman, Torbay Council’s cabinet member for housing and finance.
“We are working hard to understand how we can make the most of this opportunity to deliver well-designed, high-quality new homes that will benefit the people of Torbay,” – Alan Tyerman
The council is always looking to buy and knock down operating assets. They ensure that every single one of new homes is occupied by a household with a local connection to Torbay. This emphasis on the needs of current locals underscores the town council’s dedication to preserving the identity of their community.
To pay for this ambitious capital programme, Torbay Council’s cabinet has already approved borrowing of up to £20 million. Plus this funding will provide the transformation needed to make these properties into high-quality social housing. That will include a key role in revitalizing the neighborhood and offering long overdue housing solutions.
Torbay Council has described the project as “the first…of a growing programme of council housing.” This statement makes it clear that they are very serious about tackling the issues caused by dilapidated and vacant properties all across the bay area. The push goes beyond housing — it’s an effort to address the overall quality of life in communities. Finally, it aims to improve the aesthetic and functional quality of the local environment.
While demolition continues at the Seabury site, construction is already underway at Brampton Court. Residents and stakeholders remain hopeful that advances with these projects will go a long way to address the need for expanded affordable, accessible housing in Torbay.
