Masterplan published on future of Oldway Mansion

The plan focuses on the restoration of the mansion among other works

The cost of fully restoring a grand mansion and estate has been forecast to cost £54m.

A new masterplan and conservation management strategy for Oldway Mansion in Paignton focuses on the restoration of the main building, outbuildings and grounds.

The plans published on Tuesday come after an 18-month public consultation that found people wanted a "community-focused health, wellbeing and creative hub in the historic setting of Oldway".

Torbay councillor Chris Lewis said the new reports are "an important and essential first step to giving Oldway a new lease of life".

The council said it would begin the task of developing a funding strategy for "what will be one of the Bay’s most complex regeneration projects".

Mr Lewis, the cabinet member for place development and economic growth, said: “Restoring Oldway will require us to work with our public and private sector partners to ensure that together the site has a sustainable future.

"Other heritage projects around the Bay, show what can be achieved through a partnership approach and by working with the community.”

Torbay recently secured funding to help breathe life into some of its significant historic sites.

The local authority received a share of £200m from the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

The council said it had spoken with private sector partners about opportunities for the Oldway site, and this will continue after the proposed way forward is discussed at a cabinet meeting on 5 December.

The meeting is also expected to consider approving funding of £1m to allow for essential repair work to be carried out to the main mansion.