Weeks of disruption ahead as new Paignton roadworks begin

Essential utility works will begin in Paignton town centre on Monday 5 January as part of wider regeneration plans, including upgrades to support the restoration of Paignton Picture House.

National Grid will carry out works in two locations between Monday 5 and Tuesday 13 January.

On Torbay Road, a new electrical supply will be installed to serve the Picture House. Motorists will be able to enter Torbay Road from Esplanade Road, with left and right turns permitted onto Garfield Road or Queens Road. Access from Hyde Road will not be allowed during this period.

At Hyde Road and Great Western Road, underground cabling will be diverted, requiring a lane closure. This area is expected to be busy at peak times, and there will be no access to Torbay Road from Hyde Road. Signed diversion routes will be in place.

Hyde Road car park will remain open as normal, while Victoria car park can be accessed via Esplanade Road or Garfield Road. Station Square and the lower end of Torbay Road taxi ranks will continue to operate, although the taxi rank at the top end of Torbay Road near Paignton Picture House will be temporarily closed.

Torbay Council said completing both National Grid projects at the same time would help avoid further closures later. They added that the upgrades are vital to Paignton’s regeneration programme, supporting the restoration of historic buildings, improving infrastructure and creating a better town centre for residents and visitors.

Drivers are being encouraged to use public transport, walk or cycle where possible, or allow extra time and plan alternative routes if travelling by car. Businesses in Paignton town centre will remain open throughout the works.

Further utility and highway works are also scheduled to follow later in January.

From Wednesday 14 January, Wales & West Utilities will continue gas pipe upgrade works at the Dartmouth Road and Roundham Road roundabout. The extension is required due to an unforeseen bend in the pipe and has been directed by the Health and Safety Executive. The works are expected to last around 12 days, with traffic management details to be confirmed after Thursday 8 January.

In addition, carriageway reconstruction works will begin on Torquay Road from Monday 26 January between Kings Road and Higher Polsham Road. The project involves removing the existing concrete carriageway and excavating to a depth of 425mm. The works are expected to take eight to nine weeks, with two-way traffic lights in place while the road remains open.

Local businesses and footpaths will remain accessible during all phases of the works.