Torquay’s Strand Poised for Major Upscale Hotel Makeover

The highly anticipated redevelopment of The Strand in Torquay is gaining momentum. This key waterfront site, encompassing 7–14 The Strand—including the long-vacant Debenhams store—is set to be transformed into a premium boutique wix.comwix.comwith approximately 154 keys, comprising 121 guest rooms and 33 suites Cheap Hotels and Accommodation.

Addressing a Market Gap in Upscale Accommodation

Currently, Torbay’s hotel inventory is dominated by economy to upper midscale offerings, accounting for over 96% of existing rooms, with a glaring shortfall in higher-end lodging—just 15 rooms are currently classified as upscale Totnes TimesTorbay Weekly. The new development aims to fill this void by introducing a premium hospitality option that could appeal to a broader, more discerning visitor demographic and stimulate further upscale development in the area Totnes TimesTorbay Weekly.

A Collaborative Regeneration Effort

The project is being advanced by regeneration partners Milligan and Willmott Dixon, with Colliers acting as the lead in securing a suitable hotel brand and operator Totnes TimesTorbay Weekly. Over the summer, the development team has actively engaged with the community, including local businesses, schools, and South Devon College, to gather feedback Totnes Times.

Design Features Enhance Connectivity and Heritage

A striking public stairway is central to the design, intended to forge a seamless link between The Strand, The Terrace, and the harbour below—improving pedestrian flow from nearby car parks and adjacent hotels Totnes TimesTorbay Weekly. Planning firm Turley notes that the design also pays homage to Torbay’s Victorian architectural legacy, blending historical charm with contemporary elegance. Proposed elements include active frontages, a rooftop bar and restaurant, ground-floor retail and dining terraces, and the retention of Grade II–listed structures at 7 and 8 The Strand Turley.

Economic and Social Benefits for Torquay

Torbay Council’s Deputy Leader, Cllr Chris Lewis, underscores the importance of The Strand as a pivotal town frontage, and highlights the site's strong transport connections—just five minutes from Torquay station and 40 minutes from Exeter Airport—as key advantages for both leisure and business travellers Totnes TimesTorbay Weekly. The project promises year-round employment, offering training opportunities in hospitality management, and increased patronage for local businesses through elevated footfall Totnes TimesTorbay Weekly.

Rising Interest from Leading Hotel Brands

Developers say the level of interest from major hotel operators provides a clear indication that Torquay is an emerging hospitality hotspot Totnes TimesTorbay Weekly.

Financial Implications and Timeline

Media reports suggest the project forms part of a broader £70 million harbourside regeneration scheme, projected to generate roughly £32 million in salaries, create 80 full-time jobs, and attract up to 86,000 new visitors over the next 30 years The Sun. A separate, concurrent project involves an £11 million redevelopment of the Union Square shopping centre, introducing new mixed-use spaces—like apartments, retail, offices, and a GP surgery—while revitalizing the historic pannier market and public square The Sun.

Public Consultation and Next Steps

In summer 2025, Torbay Council and development partners launched a public consultation, enabling residents and businesses to review the proposals and submit feedback—both online and at in-person drop-ins held in July TurleyTorbay Weekly. A full planning application is expected to be submitted in autumn 2025 Torbay WeeklyThe Sun.

Summary Table

Aspect	Details
Size & Scale	~154-key boutique hotel (121 rooms, 33 suites)
Location	7–14 The Strand (former Debenhams), Torquay harbourside
Development Team	Milligan, Willmott Dixon, with Colliers overseeing operator search
Design Highlights	Public stairway, rooftop bar/restaurant, retail space, heritage retention
Economic Impact	New jobs, training, £32 M salaries, long-term tourism growth
Consultation	Summer 2025 input collected; planning application due autumn 2025

Torquay’s harbourside is on the brink of a dramatic transformation. With investment from key regeneration partners, a thoughtfully designed boutique hotel, and strong community and market engagement, the project has the potential to establish The Strand as a premier destination—boosting the local economy and revitalizing the town’s waterfront.