Paignton Waterfront Building Eyed for Affordable Housing Conversion

A three-storey waterfront property situated on Cliff Road in Paignton, Devon, which has served as the base for the Paignton Sea Anglers Association for the past four decades, could potentially be transformed into residences for young individuals. Earlier this year, the association reported a decline in its membership and subsequently listed the building for sale with a guide price of £550,000. Torbay Council’s planning committee is scheduled to review a proposal from the YMCA next week, which seeks to convert the premises into two flats and a maisonette intended for affordable housing. The proposed flats are designed for single occupancy, while the maisonette would accommodate six individuals, each having an en-suite bedroom, with shared access to a living room, kitchen, and toilet. The Local Democracy Reporting Service stated that YMCA Exeter would manage the property, operating it as supported accommodation for young people aged 18 to 25 who have a direct connection to Torbay. The plan has drawn 36 objections from local residents, citing concerns such as potential anti-social behaviour, increased noise, general disturbance, and the possible impact on Paignton’s Holocaust Memorial Garden and Burma Star Garden, both of which are located adjacent to the site.