Torbay Council proposes expanded 20mph zone in Torquay town centre

Residents and businesses are being invited to have their say on plans to expand the 20mph zone in Torquay town centre.

Torbay Council, working with its highways partner SWISCo, has launched a public consultation on proposals aimed at improving pedestrian safety in the Fleet Street area and setting an appropriate speed limit in Pimlico, which is already traffic-calmed with speed humps.

If approved, the expanded zone would link into the existing 20mph limit along The Strand harbourside and cover much of Torquay’s main shopping area.

The consultation runs from Friday 16 January 2026 until midnight on Sunday 8 February 2026.

The proposed expanded 20mph zone would include:

• Pimlico from its junction with Market Street

• Stentiford Hill Road from Pimlico to its junction with Queen Street

• The GPO roundabout

• Abbey Road from the GPO roundabout to its junction with Rock Road

• Fleet Street to its junction with The Strand and Cary Parade

• Swan Street

• Braddons Hill Road West between Fleet Street and Montpelier Road

• The Terrace between Fleet Street and Montpelier Road

Cllr Adam Billings, Torbay Council’s Cabinet Member for Pride in Place and Parking, said the proposals formed part of ongoing work to improve road safety, particularly for vulnerable road users.

“A maximum speed of 20mph for these busy roads in Torquay town centre’s main shopping area would help to reduce the risk of conflict between vehicles and pedestrians,” he said.

“The expanded area would also provide clarity by joining up with the existing 20mph zone on The Strand following the harbourside regeneration, creating a safer environment for all.”

He added that the plans were still at proposal stage and encouraged residents to share their views as part of the consultation.

Fleet Street already has restricted access, with exemptions for buses, some taxis, emergency and council vehicles, and commercial vehicles during specified hours.

The council says lower vehicle speeds can reduce the number and severity of collisions, improve driver reaction times, and cut noise and exhaust emissions. The proposed 20mph limit would be mandatory at all times, with enforcement carried out by police.

During the consultation, letters will be sent to properties within the proposed zone. An online consultation form will be available, with paper copies of the survey also accessible at Torquay Library.

All responses will be considered before a decision is made on whether to proceed with the scheme. More information and a link to the consultation can be found at www.torbay.gov.uk/consultations .