As part of Torbay Council’s ongoing response to Coronavirus and partnership working Devon & Cornwall Police, the decision has been made to close Eastern Esplanade in Paignton to vehicles.

Parking Services have been on site today installing bollards, barriers and road closure signs to stop all vehicles parking in the area. Gates at either end of the esplanade will be locked once the last vehicle leaves the area.

Inspector Howard Brugge of Devon & Cornwall Police said, “Over the last few days we have been conducting high visibility patrols in key locations across Paignton and Brixham. Generally the public are responding well to the government guidelines however a number of people are still going against government Covid-19 guidelines and driving to the beaches particularly Paignton Seafront for walks and to look at the view”.

Cllr Mike Morey, Cabinet Member for Infrastructure, Environment and Culture for Torbay Council, said, “Despite government guidelines about not travelling to conduct daily exercise, the Eastern Esplanade continues to be a problem. We know local police officers have been giving advice to those parking in the area, yet despite this they return as soon as officers leave. In order to prevent the spread of the virus, it is important everyone adheres to the guidelines”.   

The closure of Eastern Esplanade is the latest parking area to be temporarily closed across Torbay.

Torbay residents are advised to stay at home, save lives and only leave their homes for essential journeys.

Further information and advice on Coronavirus is at www.gov.uk/coronavirus

You can find out more about social distancing on the GOV.UK website.