Nick Bye shares insights on how Bay councillors are collaborating for community growth and development
As the first directly-elected mayor of the Bay, he knows the ins and outs of local governance. He’s been a Conservative councillor for years and currently oversees children’s services.
Bye points out that despite the usual grumbles about politicians, Torbay Council has made significant strides. They’ve improved children’s services, balanced their budget, and even managed to keep the streets clean. Plus, they’ve organized some fantastic events like the Bay of Lights and the Air Show.
What’s really cool is that councillors are working together to revitalize the Bay. The Strand regeneration project is already attracting private investment, which is a great sign for the area.
He reminisces about Brixham’s transformation after the New Fish Quay and Old Market House projects. Those changes turned it into a bustling destination, and he sees the same potential for the Bay.
However, there’s some buzz about new hotel investments from the Singapore-based Fragrance Group. Some folks are upset about the delay in plans for a new hotel at the old Palace site, while others are excited about the new flagship project at Corbyn Head. It’s a mixed bag of reactions!
Bye highlights that the new Corbyn Head Hotel will be the Bay’s tenth new branded hotel in recent years, part of a £50 million investment. He’s traveled to other seaside towns and noticed a lack of modern hotels, making this investment even more impressive.
With new hotels and a vibrant dining scene, the Bay is on the rise. Bye wishes he had more energy to explore all the new spots popping up.
He gives a shoutout to the English Riviera Tourism Company and its CEO, Carolyn Custerson, for their hard work in promoting the area.
Bye encourages anyone skeptical about councillors working together to attend a meeting. He believes they’ll see respectful discussions and thoughtful decision-making, regardless of political affiliation.
Sure, some new buildings might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but he reminds us that change is part of growth.
He’s optimistic about the Bay’s future, even with challenges like an aging population and the need for affordable housing. Bye wishes luck to his colleagues working on the Local Plan to find space for new homes.
Even when he disagrees with decisions, he respects those who put in the effort to serve the community. It’s easy to criticize, but it takes real dedication to make a difference.
