Council to debate restoration plan of mansion

A new plan for one of Torbay’s best-loved historic building is to be debated this week

The final draft of a plan involving one of Torbay’s historic buildings could get the go-ahead this week, paving the way for a long-awaited restoration of Oldway Mansion.

Members of Torbay Council’s cabinet are due to debate the final draft of the plan on Tuesday night.

If agreed, it could authorise council officers to find commercial partners to help revive the property in Paignton.

The project would involve three phases and cost £54m, project leaders said.

The initial phase would look to stop Oldway Mansion suffering further wear and tear over the coming winters, the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) said.

A first phase the restoration would include repairs to the mansion, outbuildings and grounds, improving access to the gardens, re-opening the register office and creating a new space for events and gatherings.

The building has been on the Historic England’s Heritage at Risk register as a result of disrepair and damage caused by damp, they said.

A report to the cabinet revealed that potential developers have already been in touch with the council to find out what it plans to do with Oldway Mansion, they added.

Oldway Mansion was built in 1873 by Isaac Singer, founder of the sewing machine company.

Problems include water getting in through roofs and external walls, causing damp, dry rot, and damage to historic plasterwork.