Safe, Sustainable Travel Torbay

On 18th March 2025 Torbay Council unanimously approved the LTP 4 which will govern transport for 2025-2040. The plan will go through further ratification and is the overarching plan for transport for Devon and Torbay.

We are pleased to see changes have been made after the consultation on the draft LTP 4. Consultation responses highlighted the appetite for more active/sustainable options. The top three results being:

1. Safer cycling and walking routes
2. Improved bus frequency and Sunday/evening coverage
3. Improved reliability/quality of public transport.

We agree with these priorities and are happy to see this is reflected in the opinion of local residents also.

In the ‘unlock development’ section we are pleased to see that active travel infrastructure will be mandated. Too often new developments do not contribute to the creating of a sustainable network of transport. We have also observed developers transport plans being either lacking in ambition or entirely unrealistic. This is something we will welcome also being better incorporated into the next edition of the Local Plan. This will empower the securing of Section 106 contributions to create and improve a sustainable transport network.

‘Section 106 planning obligations are used to address negative impacts of a development. They are legally binding and comprise either an agreement between a council and a developer or a unilateral undertaking made by a developer. They can be used to specify the nature of developments (for
example, requiring a portion of housing to be affordable), compensate for loss or damage created by a development (for example, loss of open space), or address a development’s impact (for example, through a contribution towards public realm improvements in the local area). They can involve a financial or non-financial obligation.

Almost all development has some impact on the
need for infrastructure, services and amenities – or benefits from it – so it is only fair that such development pays a share of the cost.’ – Southwark Council, 2020

We are pleased to see this strategy supported by pledges within the plan, including:

“longer operating hours, faster services and better bus stop facilities to provide a step change in the quality of public transport services and infrastructure.“

“Improvements to walking and cycling facilities and the roll-out of shared vehicles will enhance transport choices and make sustainable travel easier and more attractive across Torbay and beyond.“

Equality impact Assessment:

“It also helps to provide more people better and more equitable access to transport and help tackle issues of isolation, health inequalities and transport-related social exclusion.”

“help to give people better and more equitable access to transport and help
tackle issues of isolation, health inequalities and transport-related social exclusion.”

These statements are all very encouraging and we will support the local authority to commit to real progress through more detailed plans and action going forward.