A TOWN in England with a pink sand beach is set to become more attractive thanks to a multi-million pound refurbishment.
Plans are underway to transform the seafront in Paignton, Devon.
3
Paignton seafront set to benefit from £14m development Credit: Torbay Council
3
The beach town is best known for its pink sand beachCredit: Alamy
Described as a “once in a generation opportunity”, the plans were backed by Torbay Council’s planning committee last June.
The £14 million scheme will restore two seafronts in the Devonshire beach town as part of a sea defense project.
Seafronts in Paignton and Preston, a suburb of the seaside town, will benefit from the plan.
The waterfront in Paignton will get new seating terraces, and shelters, kiosks and cafes will also be relocated as part of the overhaul.
Read more about cities on the coast
A new entrance on the South Green will provide vehicular access to the waterfront, although traffic will not be allowed on the boardwalk.
Meanwhile, new seating will be installed at Preston and its shelters and kiosks will also receive extra protection.
The main aim of the scheme is to provide the coast with stronger protection against coastal flooding, which will help protect local areas from rising sea levels.
The designer will be appointed to work on the project by the end of the month, and the start of construction is planned for the fall to avoid the summer rush hour.
Councilor Chris Lewis, deputy leader and cabinet member for local development and economic growth, told the BBC: “The council appreciates that there will be disruption for local residents and businesses once the main development gets underway.”
“However, this is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to deliver long-term coastal defense and public realm improvements for the Paignton and Preston areas.
Exploring the UK’s hidden coastal gems
“We thank people in advance for their patience as we implement these essential improvements to protect our communities in the long term.”
The Devonshire town is perhaps best known for its pink sand beach, which is caused by the iron minerals in the sand oxidizing in the air.
Other beaches in the area, such as Broadsands Beach and Goodrington Sands, are also known for their unusual pinkish-red shade of sand.
There are also various other attractions including Paignton Pier.
Also nearby is Splashdown Quay West – the UK’s largest outdoor water park.
Other activities include a visit to Elberry Cove and a walk around Roundham Head.
Paignton is a four-hour drive from London, but can be reached by direct train from London Paddington to Paignton.
We found return train tickets for £60.50 for a full fare adult.
What are the Sun team’s favorite seaside towns?
THE Sun’s travel team share some of their favorite English seaside towns.
Folkestone, Kent
Overlooking France (on a very clear day), the main attraction is the Harbor Arm, which sits on the edge of converted railway tracks and sells handmade goods and excellent food.
The colorful main street with shops and restaurants is not to be missed, my favorites are Burrito Buoy for some amazing margaritas and The Folkestone Bookshop for some novels.
You’ll need to pack your beach shoes as it has rocky beach over sandy beach – but after a few drinks at the much-loved Pilot Bar, you’ll hardly care.
Kara Godfrey, Deputy Travel Editor
Mousehole, Cornwall
The small sandy cove has retained its charm of a bonbonniere, lined with burnt-out fishing boats and lined with shabby cafes and airy art galleries whose sea-inspired works hang from the walls.
For a flawless view of the wild sea and native krill, head to the Rock Pool Cafe perched atop a rocky cliff and order a DIY hot chocolate.
There are some impressive coastal walks – but be warned they can be hilly.
Sophie Swietochowski, Assistant Travel Editor
Cleethorpes, North East Lincolnshire
Accessible on a splash of sand at high tide, this quirky little community art project is made up of driftwood, flags and mementos of those who have visited to admire vast expanses of golden sand and sparkling water.
Unfortunately, the original was destroyed in a fire in 2023, but an enthusiastic group of local volunteers is slowly rebuilding the landmark.
Lisa Minot, tour manager
Meanwhile, this coastal city is the best in the UK and has the best visitor experience in England.
And here are The Sun travel team’s favorite coastal towns in the UK.
3
Construction work on the new waterfront is expected to begin later this yearCredit: Alamy
Categories: Optical Illusion
Source: HIS Education