We want to hear your thoughts and ideas on what designs could be placed on the new sea defence wall that will run along Paignton and Preston seafronts.

We have secured £3 million from the Environment Agency following an assessment of the Bay’s current coastal defences. It was shown that the current sea wall at Paignton and Preston will only provide protection for business and properties in the town centre and surrounding areas from flooding for up to another 10 years. This extra wall will provide protection to over 350 houses and properties.

Artist Lydia Johnson has been commissioned through Torbay Culture’s Great Place Scheme to create the designs that will be placed into the concrete wall. Lydia has been researching and talking to local people to understand what reflects and represents the local area and is keen to hear your thoughts on her first designs. She is also interested to hear about any other themes or stories that you may know of that are related to Paignton and Preston that could be included in the design.

This consultation is now open and you have until Friday 9 April 2021 to take a look and respond with your views.

Councillor Mike Morey, Cabinet Member for Infrastructure, Environment and Culture, said: “First of all I would like to say thank you to those who took the time to answer our initial questions on the proposals for the new sea defence wall. All of these will be taken into consideration as we work towards the final plans submitted for planning in April.

“This consultation now gives you the opportunity to let us know your thoughts on what designs will be placed on the wall that will run along both seafronts. The designs proposed do reflect what Paignton and Preston are known for, like beach huts and our links to the Harbour, but do you agree with these? Is there anything else you feel that represents our seaside town? Make sure you let us know your thoughts before the consultation closes on Friday 9 April.”

More information on why this new sea wall is needed and to see the impact it will have on protecting the town of Paignton and surrounding areas visit the paignton sea wall page.