PLANS of how a rejuvenated Babbacombe Downs could look after a range of measures are to go on display for the first time.
Torbay Council has been working in partnership with contractors Glendale Managed Services, which has a grounds maintenance contract for the Downs, to come up with some initial ideas for upgrading the landscaping and are now keen to hear from residents and businesses.
Measures could include new paths, bins, signposts and flowerbeds as well as removing hedges.
A spokesman said: “Due to their location on the slope, the flower beds are less visible than previous years and the hedging borders are becoming sparse.
“The council’s initial proposals are to improve the beds so they are more visible and to replace the hedging.
“The sea view has become obstructed in certain areas and therefore some vegetation may be cut back and/or removed to reveal the existing shrubbery planting and to provide additional planting.
“The signage is to be improved at entrance points, the tourist boards are to be moved to more appropriate locations as are the bins which will be improved to help with the high levels of use.
“The introduction of softwood timber edging to the path in some areas would replace the existing rocks which are often climbed over.
“Finally, the repair and repainting of railings, bollards and lampposts will lend to the overall enhancement of this stunning location.”
Cllr Jeanette Richards, executive lead for tourism and environment, added: “There are very few areas across the country that have the view and ambience of Babbacombe Downs and we want to ensure that they look their best and meet the needs of those visiting the area.
“Many of the ideas are based on investing to save and will not only provide improvements for the area but will make future management easier and in turn reduce costs.
“The improvement of flower beds should mean that additional costs for reinstating these would not be required every year. However, we are not looking to reduce the overall planting within this scheme.
“The replacement of the existing bins will also ensure that litter on busy days and event days does not become an issue in the future.”
The consultation event will be held at The Downs Hotel, Babbacombe, on Monday, December 17.
Officers will be on hand to discuss the plans from 10am until 12pm and 4pm until 7pm.
Speak Your Mind