UK Unleashes Secret Tourism Power Play as Torbay Ignites Massive English Riviera Transformation That Could Redefine Britain’s Coastal Future Forever

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July 22, 2026 11:27 PM

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A refreshed strategic framework has been prepared by Torbay Council to guide the area’s tourism industry throughout the next ten years. The draft Destination Management Plan 2026–2036 has been developed to provide a long-term roadmap for sustainable tourism growth while strengthening Torbay’s competitive position within the United Kingdom’s coastal tourism market.

The updated strategy has been built upon the foundations established by the previous Destination Management Plan 2022–2030. That earlier framework played an important role in supporting the visitor economy during the recovery period following the COVID-19 pandemic. However, significant economic changes, shifting travel trends and evolving industry priorities have since been experienced, making the preparation of a revised plan necessary. Through this updated document, a more resilient and forward-looking tourism strategy has been proposed to address the opportunities and challenges expected over the next decade.

How is the visitor economy expected to be strengthened?

A broad range of initiatives has been included within the draft plan to reinforce Torbay’s visitor economy while ensuring that long-term sustainability remains a central objective. Particular emphasis has been placed on improving collaboration between tourism organisations, supporting local enterprises and enhancing the overall visitor experience.

It has been recognised that the tourism industry contributes significantly to Torbay’s economy. Consequently, measures have been proposed to encourage stronger partnerships across businesses, hospitality providers, attractions and public organisations. By creating closer cooperation throughout the tourism sector, greater consistency in destination marketing, visitor services and long-term planning is expected to be achieved. Through this coordinated approach, economic benefits are intended to extend beyond tourism businesses and into the wider local community.

What role will sustainability play in the new strategy?

Sustainable growth has been positioned as one of the principal priorities within the Destination Management Plan 2026–2036. Rather than focusing solely on increasing visitor numbers, attention has been directed towards creating a balanced tourism model that protects local communities while supporting economic prosperity.

The strategy has been designed to encourage responsible tourism practices that benefit both residents and visitors. Community wellbeing, environmental responsibility and business resilience have all been integrated into the long-term vision. As travel preferences continue to evolve, the adoption of sustainable tourism policies is expected to strengthen Torbay’s reputation while preserving the qualities that have made the English Riviera an attractive destination for generations.

What is the proposed Visitor Economy Cluster?

Among the most significant proposals contained within the draft plan is the creation of a new Visitor Economy Cluster, commonly referred to as the VEC. This initiative has been designed to bring together businesses, organisations and tourism stakeholders under a more unified structure.

Through the establishment of the Visitor Economy Cluster, stronger collaboration is expected to be achieved across the tourism sector. Collective marketing efforts, destination development projects and strategic planning activities would be coordinated more effectively through this new partnership model. By encouraging greater cooperation, the competitiveness of Torbay’s tourism industry is expected to be strengthened in both domestic and international markets.

An important governance role has also been outlined within the proposal. The chair of the Visitor Economy Cluster, who has not yet been appointed, would represent tourism interests on strategic organisations including the Torbay Place Leadership Board and the Devon and Torbay Business Advisory Group. This structure has been designed to ensure that tourism priorities remain integrated into wider economic development discussions across the region.

How was the draft plan prepared?

Extensive engagement has already been undertaken before the public consultation stage was launched. Over several months, discussions were carried out with tourism businesses, industry representatives and key stakeholders operating throughout Torbay.

Feedback gathered during those engagement activities has been incorporated into the draft Destination Management Plan. However, before final approval is considered, additional views are now being sought from residents, local businesses and individuals with an interest in the future of Torbay’s visitor economy. This wider consultation process has been introduced to ensure that the final strategy reflects the priorities and aspirations of the broader community rather than those of the tourism sector alone.

Why is public consultation considered important?

Public consultation has been regarded as an essential part of preparing a long-term tourism strategy that affects both visitors and local communities. Through community participation, valuable local knowledge and practical insights can be incorporated into future decision-making.

Residents have been provided with an opportunity to influence how tourism develops across Torbay during the coming decade. Business owners, hospitality operators, tourism professionals and visitors have likewise been encouraged to contribute their perspectives. By gathering diverse opinions before implementation, a more balanced and inclusive Destination Management Plan is expected to emerge.

The consultation process has also been intended to improve transparency while strengthening public confidence in the long-term planning process. Through collaborative engagement, policies that support sustainable economic growth while protecting community interests can be developed more effectively.

What vision has been presented for Torbay’s future?

A clear long-term ambition has been established through the draft Destination Management Plan. Torbay’s position as the UK’s premier coastal destination is intended to be reinforced by delivering a stronger visitor experience, supporting local enterprises and encouraging sustainable economic development.

According to Councillor Jackie Thomas, Torbay Council’s Cabinet Member for Tourism, Culture and Events, and Corporate Services, the refreshed strategy has been developed to provide a clear and ambitious direction for the area’s tourism future. Public participation has been encouraged so that sustainable growth can be achieved while meaningful benefits continue to be delivered across local communities. The long-term objective remains focused on elevating Torbay and the English Riviera as leading coastal tourism destinations within the United Kingdom.

When can people participate in the consultation?

The consultation has been opened to residents, businesses and anyone with an interest in Torbay’s visitor economy. Contributions are being accepted until 9am on Wednesday 2 September.

The draft Destination Management Plan together with the consultation materials has been made available through the Torbay Council website, where participants are able to review the proposals and submit their feedback before the strategy proceeds towards formal consideration and approval.

The consultation represents an important milestone in shaping the future direction of tourism across Torbay. As economic conditions continue to evolve and visitor expectations become increasingly sophisticated, the development of a flexible and sustainable strategy is being viewed as essential. Through public engagement, stronger partnerships and long-term planning, the Destination Management Plan 2026–2036 has been positioned to guide the continued growth of Torbay’s visitor economy while protecting the distinctive character of the English Riviera for future generations.