Locals asked to decide historic monastery's future

Residents in Paignton are being urged to help decide the future of one of the town's most recognisable historic buildings.

The latest plans to bring the former monastery back into everyday use are being put on public exhibition at Paignton Library on Saturday with Paignton Monastery saying it is a chance for locals to see the proposals and have their say before decisions are made.

Ideas already suggested by residents include a cafe, youth activities, fitness and wellbeing classes, hobby groups and space for community events.

The team is also asking people to share memories of the monastery, whether recent or from years gone by.

Torbay Council has offered the freehold of the monastery to the community for £1, creating what organisers describe as a rare chance to save the building.

The site needs major work, including urgent roof repairs and a full internal restoration, before it can reopen.

"We don't just want people to come and look, we want them to be part of it," said a spokesperson for Paignton Monastery CIC.

"This is a genuine chance for the community to save and transform a historic building into something everyone can use and be proud of."

The exhibition runs from 09:30 to 16:00 BST.

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