Improvement works get underway on Babbacombe Downs

Improvement works to Torquay's much loved Babbacombe

Downs have got underway today.

Following several days of consultation towards the end of

last year the council was able to finalise the improvement plans with

contractors Glendale Managed Services, who have the grounds maintenance

contract for the Downs. 

 The initial work, will take a few months to complete and

will involve:

*  Opening up the

views from Babbacombe Downs across the Bay by clearing some of the trees on the

cliff side and reducing the hedging on the Downs.

*  Installing new

larger bins in more appropriate locations.

*  Landscaping

works to move, create and reinstate flowerbeds.

*  Surface

improvements to the footpath.

*  New signage to

show facilities and the history of the Downs.

Executive Lead for Tourism and Environment, Cllr Jeanette

Richards, said:  "There must be very

few areas across the whole country that have the view and ambience of

Babbacombe Downs so we want to ensure that it looks its best and continues to

meet the needs of those visiting the area.

"We had a great response to our consultation with

many people showing their support for the initial ideas and as a result we have

had to change very little.

 "Many of the plans 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."