'Significant step forward' at abandoned Torquay hotspot
An 'exclusivity agreement' has been signed in a bid to develop the former Living Coasts site
What's been described as a 'significant step forward' has been made at the former Living Coasts site in Torquay.
ARC Marine has signed an Exclusivity Agreement with Torbay Council and the Wild Planet Trust in a bid to develop a cutting-edge Marine Restoration Centre there.
We're told that all parties have now instructed legal counsel to negotiate lease terms for ARC marine to take on the closed Living Coasts attraction, located on Torquay’s stunning waterfront.
It's amid the firm securing 'significant investment' to redevelop the site, which will serve as both its operational headquarters and R&D hub for ocean conservation and habitat restoration.
The planned Marine Restoration Centre will focus on cutting-edge research, innovation, education and outreach, helping to restore marine ecosystems while supporting sustainable blue economy initiatives. ARC marine is already delivering large-scale marine restoration projects in the UK, Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, and this new facility will provide a unique and purpose-built space as a dedicated base for its expanding international operations.
Tom Birbeck, Founder & CEO of ARC marine, said: “This is such an exciting milestone for ARC marine, and we are glad to work alongside Torbay Council and the Wild Planet Trust to bring this vision to life.
“The former Living Coasts site is the perfect facility for us and all of the infrastructure is already in place to carry out testing and development on our nature-based solutions.”
The tenancy is expected to bring significant benefits to the region, boosting Torbay’s position as a centre for marine research and conservation while creating skilled jobs and opportunities in the local community.
Most of the ARC marine team are local to Torbay and have attended South Devon College, University of Plymouth or Exeter and are keen to remain in their hometown but still pursue a career in the marine industry.
Further updates will be provided as legal negotiations progress.