Temporary car park to open in Paignton

The car park will open at the site of the former Crossways Shopping Centre, the council has said

A new temporary car park providing 100 spaces is to be introduced in Paignton town centre, Torbay Council has confirmed.

It comes as a number of major improvement and regeneration schemes start in the same area.

A council spokesperson said the move had been made to "ensure that visitors to Paignton can continue to easily access parking in the town centre".

Although no exact date was given, officials said it was expected to open in the autumn at the former Crossways Shopping Centre on Hyde Road.

The council said the car park would be open 24 hours a day, with signed spaces for blue badge holders and dedicated spaces for motorcycles.

The temporary car park could be in place for up to two years, it added.

Officials also said it was the first of several temporary car parking solutions being considered by council officers as development construction projects were projected to start from late 2024.

Chris Lewis, deputy leader of Torbay Council, said: "Providing temporary parking facilities in Paignton town centre is a critical first step in Paignton’s regeneration programme.

"It is essential that, ahead of any physical works starting, parking mitigation measures are put in place to provide reassurance to our residents, businesses and visitors that Paignton town centre will remain open and accessible."

He added: "This is an exciting time for Paignton as key sites and areas start to come forward for redevelopment and improvement."