Torquay Debenhams development set to advance

Plans to transform the former Debenhams site on Torquay’s harbourside look set to take an important step forward.Revealed earlier this year, the proposals would see the empty building demolished and replaced with a south-facing square with elevated views of the Harbour.The square would play host to a “vibrant café culture” and be designed to celebrate the character of the area and create new living opportunities.Lined up for the building would be up to five leisure retail units and 16 apartments across four floors.If backed, the proposal is expected to create about 92 jobs during the 18-month construction period. It would contribute about £19.9m towards the local and regional economy during this phase.The commercial uses would support about 30 jobs and contribute £16.3m towards the economy over a 25-year period. This would also generate a range of third-party roles and revenue.The application is set to go before Torbay Council’s planning committee on 14 November with a recommendation for approval.A report drawn up ahead of the meeting said: “The proposal is considered a good use of a vacant brownfield site that would provide much needed housing to help meet local need.”It would also provide accessible ground floor commercial uses designed around a new set piece square to be integrated into The Strand.”