Torquay affordable rent homes plans move forward after public consultation
Torquay developer, Walmer House Community Homes is one step closer to bringing forward affordable rent homes for local people in Torquay after hosting a public consultation event last week.
The local community attended the event on Thursday 6th August to meet the team behind the proposed conversion of Walmer House on Ash Hill Road, Torquay. Hosted at Walmer House, attendees had the opportunity to view and have their say on the draft plans which look to redevelop the vacant Victorian Villa into 10 one-bedroom affordable rent flats for local people.
Having stood vacant for a long time, Walmer house is at risk of gradual deterioration without a viable long-term use. Aiming to preserve and enhance the character of the property, the Walmer House development will restore original architectural detailing, remove unsympathetic later additions and redundant outbuildings, and reinstate landscaping and planting.
The scheme will help address local housing pressures while retaining existing parking, alongside dedicated cycle parking and refuse storage. Residents will also benefit from a communal walled garden, creating a shared outdoor space within the development.
Over 83% of those who so far have completed the feedback form have indicated that affordable homes are much needed in the local area.
Founded in 2026 and based in Torquay, Walmer House Community Homes is a sister company to the award-winning Armada Property UK, an experienced local residential contractor to deliver the Walmer House conversion.
Ben Coggins, Director of Walmer House Community Homes, commented: “We were pleased to meet with members of the local community at our consultation event last week and talk through our plans for Walmer House. It was a useful opportunity to answer questions, explain more about the proposals and hear directly from local people about their views.
“As a locally important property in a conservation area, we want to make sure that anyone who is interested in the future of Walmer House has the opportunity to see the plans and provide feedback. If you weren’t able to attend, you can visit the Walmer House Community Homes website to find out more and complete our online questionnaire, which will remain open until Thursday 20th August 2026.”
Walmer House Community Homes will now review feedback received through the event and online survey, with a planning application intended to be submitted later in August.
Members of the public still have time to view the plans and submit their feedback on the proposals via an online questionnaire at www.walmerhousech.com. The questionnaire will close on Thursday 20th August 2026.
If you would like to request further information, please email info@walmerhousech.com.
