The Leader of the Council and Cabinet is recommending that the Torbay Airshow returns in 2020.

At a recent Cabinet meeting, it was recommended that we contribute £25,000 for the flagship event next year, supported by partnership and sponsorship funding.

Cabinet Member for Infrastructure, Environment and Culture, Cllr Mike Morey, said: “The airshow is undoubtedly an event that Torbay can be extremely proud of and one that is immensely enjoyed by residents and visitors to the Bay.

“By committing to the airshow, there is potential for a substantial boost to Torbay’s economy by attracting new and repeat visitors and inward investment. This year it is estimated that the local economic benefit exceeded £7million and this is set to increase over the next few years.”

The English Riviera BID has also expressed further commitment to supporting the airshow in 2020. It was recommended that the event would be rebranded the ‘English Riviera Airshow’ to align with the English Riviera BID’s brand.

The Leader of the Council and Cabinet recognised that the event comes with a carbon footprint and requested that a range of options be explored to offset the carbon dioxide produced by the event.

All recommendations will be taken forward for Full Council to consider on Thursday 18 July.

Torbay Airshow has grown significantly since it started in 2016 and has attracted thousands of residents and visitors from across the UK. It is now established as one of the best coastal airshows in the country and has achieved national and international interest and media coverage.