THE stunning home of England’s most valuable port is set to undergo a major waterfront revamp.
Harbour will see upgrades to public walkways as well as watersport facilities.
Brixham is located in the south-west of England and has an estimated population of around 16,781.
The town, which is an hour drive from both and , dates back to the Saxon period, when it first established itself as a hub.
By the mid-nineteenth century, the town boasted the largest shipping fleet in the country at 250.
As the industry continued to expand, boatyards and fish markets set up around town and maritime-related work became the norm for the area.
The port has played a pivotal role in shaping the country’s history, from the landing place of to the home for the during .
It is also the site of countless shipwrecks over the years, with local legend claiming wives of fishermen would take belongings to the beach to burn them as a way of guiding their men home.
Nowadays, the harbour is a bustling hub, setting a new record in 2022 by landing £60.8 million for the year.
The harbourside area is now set for a £750,000 improvement development.
This includes the installation of new solar smart compacting bins that will prevent overflow and the mounting of LED festoon lighting around the harbour for increased safety.
Dilapidated seating and benches will also be replaced along the seafront and seasonal feature planting, such as hanging baskets, will be added to brighten up the area.
Improving access and public safety around the harbour and fishing port is also an aim of this initiative.
Water sports in the area will also benefits as the project will provide safe launching, landing, and mooring facilities for paddleboard and kayak users.
Directional signage will also be improved to enhance visitors’ experiences.
And finally, the harbour railings, pillars, lamp posts and the Quay Market structure will all be touched up and repainted.
Chris Lewis, deputy leader and cabinet member for place development and economic growth at Torbay Council, spoke to the BBC about the planned improvements.
“Brixham is already a vibrant and welcoming place, and we hope the £750,000 of public realm improvements will further enhance the area for residents and visitors,”;; he said.
As well as strolling the scenic harbour, visitors to the town can also visit the small shingle beach or take a dip in the Shaolstone Seawater Pool, open from May til September.
History buffs can visit one of the towns many musuems, including the Golden Hind Ship Museum, which is located in the harbour itself.
Or your can enjoy the picturesque scenery including the local architecture, such as the nineteenth century cottages built overlooking the water.
There are a variety of local eateries to choose from, with seafood being an expected theme in most.
And you can pick from a variety of local hotels and B&Bs, beginning from £95 per night.
