Commercial partner sought for Historic Torbay mansion

Torbay Council has said it is looking for a commercial partner to help bring Oldway Mansion back to life.

The first phase of restoration work is due to start early next year, which will include repairs to the 13 different types of roof on the building, and is expected to be completed by the end of 2027. It is being funded by £1million from Torbay Council and £8million from the UK government.

Commencement of work will come more than a year after Historic England added the Paignton mansion to its 'at risk' register, with "urgent repairs" needed to the roofs and external walls to prevent water seeping in and causing damp, dry rot and damage to the plasterwork.

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Less than a month after the site was deemed at risk, its Tearooms were closed to the public as there was a "significant risk" of the ceiling collapsing. Torbay Council said water had been coming in through the ceiling and had become worse after repeated spells of wet weather. In April this year, the volunteers who ran the Tearooms stepped down and the authority said it was not looking for alternative operators to reopen it.

The council has set out a 'masterplan' for the longer term restoration project, which is likely to include luxury apartments on the top floors, improving access to the gardens, re-opening the register office and a new space for events.

The total cost of the project, which has been described as one of the council's "most complex regeneration projects", has been estimated to be £54million. The council has said that a co-investment approach is needed, meaning that there are likely to be multiple phases over several years.

Oldway Mansion is now being listed for sale via estate agents Fleurets. In their advertisement of the property, they say a "regeneration partner" is being sought to restore the landmark. A long leasehold of the site is being offered for a price that is only available on application.