LEISURE beaches around Torbay are at risk of disappearing under rising sea water levels.

Torbay Council and its development arm, the Torbay Development Agency, are drawing plans to see what impact climate change could have on the Bay's environment and tourism-based economy.

Steve Parrock, chief executive of the TDA, said at a meeting of the Torquay Chamber of Commence that general flooding and rising sea levels were a reality developers in Torbay had to take into account looking ahead over the next 25, 50 and 100 years.

He said: "The economic lifespan of a typical commercial development is approximately 50 years.

"The situation is not presently critical. We are not predicting a major catastrophe but it is something we are obliged to look at seriously when contemplating the scale of development envisaged in the mayor's vision.

"The Environment Agency has told everyone sea levels are changing and that we need to be prepared for that.

"This could of course have a serious impact on Torbay's economy in the medium term.

"The worst case scenario would see the loss of several beaches and the extent of leisure beaches is likely to be reduced.

"Across the Bay we will need to look at the impact of climate change and ensure we have enough new attractions to compensate for the loss of our traditional amenities."

A shoreline management plan is currently being prepared by Teignbridge District Council which will cover the South Devon coast from Dawlish to the South Hams.

The report is expected to be published in July along with a strategic flood risk assessment which will be prepared by the Environment Agency, with input from Torbay Council. DEFRA is also preparing coastal erosion risk mapping which will predict the erosion of beaches and cliffs in the next 25, 50 and 100 years. This is due to be published in October 2010 and may include cliff-top properties within the Bay.

The aim of the report, which is due to be ready by April 20, is to tackle climate change over the next decades.

A spokesman for the Environment Agency said sea levels could rise by one metre along the South Devon coastline over the next century.

Mr Parrock added: "We don't know yet what the final reports will say. But we need to be prepared. We will need to assess early the likely impact of climate change upon some of the planned developments we have for the Bay."

Mr Parrock said the management of the Bay's breakwaters, sea defences and flood plains will become crucial to the prosperity of Torbay in the coming years.

Princess and Haldon Piers are anticipated to be recognised as formal sea defence by the Environment Agency. Brixham Breakwater and Paignton's Easter Quay could soon get the same status.

Mr Parrock said: "Our collective approach to climate change will determine which developments are feasible, and whether and where we hold the line will shape the future. In the longer term we may well have to accept a managed retreat in some areas and let the sea take over."