The ‘Banjo’ events space on Princess Gardens is available to hire.

Recently enhanced as part of three projects being delivered using £750,000 of accelerated funding from the Government’s Towns Fund, the space is now equipped with water and electricity and is soon to be complemented by new illuminations.

Following the successful trial of a continental market last month, invitations are now being extended to make full use of the ‘Banjo’ space to bring the area alive.

The grassed area of the Banjo is 1500m2 and can accommodate staging and marquees, making it a dynamic event space for a wide range of events and activities.

Our events team are seeking applications from community groups, businesses and charities who would like to make use of the site for events such as live music, theatrical performances, art installations, fine dining experiences, workshops and markets that sell quality artisan goods and locally sourced products and food.

Councillor Mike Morey, Cabinet Member for Infrastructure, Environment and Culture for Torbay Council, said; “It’s exciting to see this area finally being used as a dynamic event space, which is what it was originally designed for almost 70 years ago. We’d also like to encourage people to share their ideas with us on how they would like to see the space used to its full potential.”

Councillor Swithin Long, Cabinet Member for Economic Regeneration, Tourism and Housing for Torbay Council, said; “Together with commercial event organisers, producers and events specialists, as well as local volunteer and community groups we want to develop and deliver a strong and vibrant events sector, that not only has a positive effect on our local economy, but that also enriches the lives of both local residents and visitors to the Bay.”

we have committed to investing £750,000 over three years to implement a new Events Strategy, to support the delivery of a multi-layered, year-round, area-wide events offer. Working with the Events Steering Group made up of independent stakeholders, the Events Strategy will have a long-term focus that builds capacity in the sector, create more local jobs as well as ensuring the visitor economy continues to thrive.

Further information on holding events on council land can be found via: https://www.torbay.gov.uk/leisure-sports-and-community/hold-an-event/

Submit your idea on how you would like to use / see the Banjo space used to the events team via events@torbay.gov.uk