Second phase of Torquay Strand project under way

There are five phases to the Strand project, with phase two expected to last 18 weeks

Work has started on the second phase of Torquay's Strand public realm project.

The work will see new traffic management measures in place on the Strand, Torwood Street and Victoria Parade.

The project was made possible after Torbay Council secured £21.9m of Town Deal Funding.

Councillor Chris Lewis said the project was the start of the "biggest transformation programme that Torquay has seen in decades".

Temporary arrangements for pedestrians will be in place and significant delays can be expected for motorists while the work is ongoing.

The summary of changes include:

• Strand reduced to a single lane of traffic, controlled by traffic lights at all junctions.

• All bus stops from the south side of the Strand relocated to Cary Parade.

• Buses will no longer loop around the Clock Tower, instead they will turn right at the bottom of Fleet Street.

• Taxi ranks are available on Victoria Parade, Torwood Street and Vaughan Road.

'Enhance biodiversity'

Work will begin on 6 February to rehome planting and trees from the south side of the Strand.

The council is looking to repurpose five trees that are unable to be rehomed due to their deep bedded roots and size.

Councillor Adam Billings said: "We do understand the removal of planting and trees will concern the community.

"This is why we have been actively engaging with representatives of the local community and have planned to rehome as much of the green planting as possible elsewhere in the local area.

"In relation to the trunks of the removed trees, local makers who wish to express an interest should contact us.

"Alternatively they will be placed in woodland areas to enhance biodiversity and habitats."

There are five phases to the Strand project, with phase two expected to last 18 weeks.