Paignton Pavilion Plans Unveiled: A Divisive Vision for the Seafront
Residents of Paignton have been presented with initial proposals to redevelop a derelict seafront pub into a modern conference and exhibition centre, sparking a spectrum of reactions from enthusiastic support to outright criticism.
The Fragrance Group's Ambitious Proposal
The Fragrance Group, an investment company with significant local presence, plans to demolish the old Inn on the Green and replace it with the new Paignton Pavilion. This year-round venue would host conferences, exhibitions, and various events, potentially opening in Spring 2028 if planning approval proceeds smoothly.
The company recently completed the Hotel Indigo at Corbyn Head and previously developed the adjacent Ibis Styles Hotel and Mercure Hotel. Originally intending to convert the Inn on the Green site into a car park, Fragrance revised their plans following public opposition.
Mixed Reactions from the Community
During an open exhibition at the Ibis Styles Hotel, locals examined preliminary designs with opinions sharply divided. Some questioned whether the proposed 65 parking spaces would be sufficient and expressed reservations about the architectural design.
"Rubbish," declared guest house owner Victoria Smith. "I don't like them at all. They're too big, they're too square and they're out of place."
Fellow accommodation provider Margaret Green raised concerns about public access: "It's not going to be open to the general public at all, so nobody in Paignton will be able to go in there and use the facilities. It would be for the hotels, and that's it."
However, others welcomed the bold design as precisely what Paignton needs. Supporters argued that the venue would attract visitors who would benefit other local businesses, creating economic spillover effects throughout the town.
Architectural Vision and Heritage Preservation
Architect Chris Kenny of Torquay firm Kay Elliott described the project as part of a bright future for Paignton. "It is directly opposite the pier, which is one of the main destinations in this area," he explained. "So providing a flexible, functional event space that can cater for locals and tourists alike really helps the council achieve its dreams of creating a vibrant and prosperous town."
The design incorporates elements of the original Inn on the Green, preserving sandstone walls, art deco lighting, and the site's iconic palm trees. While the existing building cannot be retained, designers aim to preserve historic boundary treatments while creating a modern facility.
"People have been coming in and saying it would be the perfect place to host weddings, or a jazz festival or rock choirs," Kenny noted. "All these people are coming out with ideas about how they could use the space. That gives us a lot of positive encouragement for its future."
Local Business Perspectives
Paignton Pier owners Shaw and Jolene Wallis were among the first to examine the plans. "I think it looks good," said Mr. Wallis. "It will definitely benefit Paignton and the wider community. It's not going to please everybody, but they're going to have to do something with the site. This is something different for Paignton. Give it a go and let's see what happens."
Another early visitor described the plans as "radical" but echoed concerns about parking availability and whether benefits would extend beyond adjacent hotels.
Design Inspiration and Economic Goals
Designers drew inspiration from Paignton's 1920s identity as an accessible, fun, and modern resort town, as well as traditional British seaside ballrooms and pavilions. Their presentation stated: "The evolution of seaside ballrooms and pavilions echoes this development and consequently reflects the cultural and architectural trends of their time."
The project aims to "create a building that will lead to future economic and social benefit" for Paignton, addressing what some residents see as a lack of indoor attractions, particularly during inclement weather.
As the planning process moves forward, the Fragrance Group faces the challenge of balancing preservation concerns with modern development needs while addressing community reservations about parking, public access, and architectural integration.
