Demolition of Paignton Buildings to Proceed
The demolition of deteriorating buildings in Paignton town centre is set to commence next week, following months of safety concerns. Preparatory works at the Station Square site, which includes a pub, shops, and a takeaway, are scheduled to start this Friday, July 10, with the actual demolition beginning on Tuesday, July 14.
The square has been cordoned off since May after masonry began falling from the building's façade. The main road through the town centre has also been closed to traffic. Torbay Council stated it acted in the interests of public safety by securing the site and shutting the road.
Contractor Appointed for Safe Demolition
Contractor Gilpin Demolition, which previously carried out emergency safety works at the site, has been appointed to oversee the full demolition. From Friday, its team will establish a compound and bring in specialist equipment. As part of the site set-up, the safety fencing line will be extended, but pedestrians will still be able to walk alongside the railway station's boundary fencing.
The demolition will be carefully controlled. Working hours will be Monday to Friday, between 8am and 6pm, with noisier activities restricted to between 9am and 5pm. To minimise dust, a water mist suppression system will be used across the working area throughout the demolition.
Timeline and Impact
Subject to progress and weather conditions, the demolition is expected to take approximately six weeks, after which the road will reopen. The building is owned by locally-based firm Solanki Holdings, but concerns over the property's state prompted the council to invoke emergency powers to ensure public safety.
The council hopes the owners will put forward future redevelopment proposals fitting for the site and in keeping with the area's conservation status.
Council Statement on Public Safety
Deputy leader Chris Lewis (Con, Preston) said: "Public safety remains our absolute priority, and these demolition works are an important step in addressing a building that has presented significant concerns. We appreciate the patience and understanding shown by residents, businesses and visitors."
Lewis added: "We are committed to ensuring that disruption is kept to a minimum, with pedestrian access maintained and local businesses remaining open as usual. Paignton town centre is very much open for business, and I would encourage everyone to continue visiting, shopping locally and supporting the many fantastic businesses that contribute to the town's vibrancy."
