Executive Member to update
Minutes:
The Executive Member for Economy, Estates and Major Projects Cllr Palethorpe, reported that the Future High Streets Fund (FHSF) programme in Newton Abbot was progressing across key projects, including Queen Street enhancements, Bradley Lane regeneration, and Market Hall & Market Square redevelopment. His updates were as below.
Future High Street Fund – Delivering Regeneration in Newton Abbot
Teignbridge District Council is delivering transformational change for Newton Abbot through its Future High Street Fund (FHSF) programme. With the major construction phase of the Queen Street Enhancement Scheme now complete, and significant progress underway at Bradley Lane and the Market Hall, the district is moving with purpose and ambition to revitalise Newton Abbot Town centre for the future.
Queen Street Enhancement – A Regeneration Milestone Delivered
The completion of major construction on Queen Street marks a pivotal achievement in the regeneration of Newton Abbot’s town centre. Delivered through the Future High Street Fund, the scheme has reshaped Queen Street into a safer, greener, and more accessible street that puts people first and supports economic recovery.
Key Achievements
· Pedestrian-first environment: Widened pavements and narrowed carriageways now offer greater safety and comfort for families, older people, and those with mobility challenges.
· Reduced traffic and lower speed limits: These changes are creating a calmer, more welcoming town centre, discouraging unnecessary through traffic while improving pedestrian visibility and safety.
· Enhancements: The enhancements have significantly improved the visual appeal and usability of the street, enhancing pride in place.
· Improved crossing safety: Especially between Albany Road and Courtenay Street, reduced on-street parking has improved sightlines and made the street safer for vulnerable users.
Public Realm Enhancements
· Street furniture: Attractive, traditional-style benches installed at Prospect Terrace and Fairfield Terrace offer spaces to pause, rest and enjoy the new environment.
· Greening and biodiversity: Seven new Junberry trees, complemented by planted surface-level flower beds, will deliver seasonal colour, support pollinators and contribute to urban biodiversity.
· Ongoing partnership with the Town Council: The installation of hanging basket columns and upcoming planting, maintained by Newton Abbot Town Council, will add vibrancy and a sense of community ownership.
Monitoring and Safety
· A full independent Road Safety Audit has been completed, with results feeding into continuous improvement.
· A joint monitoring and evaluation phase led by Devon County Council and Teignbridge District Council will assess performance, ensuring Queen Street continues to evolve in line with the community’s needs.
Managing Disruption – Communication and Clarity
While disruption was unavoidable, it is important to note that many traffic issues in the wider area were linked to essential gas works by Wales & West Utilities, separate from the Queen Street scheme. These utility works along Queen Street are now complete, and full reinstatement has been achieved.
Bradley Lane Redevelopment – Unlocking a Strategic Site
The Bradley Lane site clearance and demolition works are progressing, despite minor delays caused by notifiable asbestos removal and the need to secure and protect the Leat which required CCTV inspection to ensure it was not damaged by moving vehicles during demolition.
This cleared site represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to deliver high-impact development on a brilliantly located brown field site in the heart of Newton Abbot.
Next Steps – Vision and Community Benefit
A clear, shared vision must now be developed, involving key stakeholders and informed by community priorities. Strategic options that may be considered include:
· General and affordable housing
· Social housing and essential and much needed extra care provision
· Leisure or mixed-use development to complement the town centre economy
The administration remains committed to delivering meaningful outcomes for residents and securing long-term community benefit from this key regeneration site. Financial return will not be the sole driver.
Market Hall & Market Square – A New Destination for Newton Abbot
Work is well underway to transform the historic Market Hall and Market Square into a vibrant year-round destination. The ambition is to re-establish the market as a dynamic focal point for food, events, and community activity, supporting both economic and cultural vitality.
Core Features of the Redevelopment
· A mix of permanent and flexible stalls to support local entrepreneurs and changing seasonal needs.
· A dedicated food court area offering variety and appeal for residents and visitors.
· A programme of themed and seasonal events, supported by infrastructure in the square of power and the ability to have flexible layouts.
Sustainable Operation
Officers are exploring professional management models, learning from successful schemes from across the Country. This approach aims to secure long-term financial and operational sustainability, while enabling the space to respond to evolving community and commercial needs.
Conclusion – A Town Centre with Upward Momentum
Across Queen Street, Bradley Lane, and the Market Hall, the FHSF programme is delivering visible, strategic change. These projects are not only enhancing Newton Abbot’s public realm and infrastructure, but also positioning the town as a thriving, future-focused centre for living, working, shopping and community life.
The Council’s focus now turns to:
· Capturing the benefits through robust monitoring and evaluation
· Engaging stakeholders in planning for future phases
· Ensuring the momentum continues through 2025 and beyond
Through this programme, Newton Abbot is redefining itself—demonstrating that with strong leadership, meaningful investment, and community-focused planning, local regeneration can succeed.
White Boxing Update
· Market Square, formerly The Other Cup, Oggi Oggi have been completed
· Clarks have renewed their Lease
· Vigar Electrical have signed a lease for the former Body Shop unit in Market Walk
The update was noted.