Plan to sell council farm site could create 200 jobs

A large council-owned farm site and agricultural land could be sold to a developer that promises to bring new retail and leisure opportunities along with a "glamping" retreat and a possible 200 jobs.

Torbay Council plans to sell the Occombe Farm site and neighbouring land, near Paignton, to Greendale, which already runs a farm shop with restaurants and a business park near Exeter.

The council took over the site, parts of which are a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), when the Torbay Coast and Countryside Trust was liquidated in 2025.

Councillors will discuss the plan for the 36 hectares (about 90 acres), which would be sold "for a sum in excess of market value", on Tuesday.

The council said Greendale had a vision for the Occombe Farm site, which includes the return of the farm shop and cafe, "with an aim to also reintroduce the indoor play area in future".

Torbay Council said the deal would also see the wider land and buildings developed to include indoor sports courts and long-term, the creation of "a glamping holiday retreat".

Chris Lewis, Torbay Council deputy leader, said the council was "committed to securing a sustainable, community-focused future for the site" and a sale to Greendale would "help us deliver that vision for our people and our place".

He said: "Their proposals will not only enhance leisure opportunities for our community but also provide a significant boost to the local economy, with the potential to create up to 200 jobs for local people."

Greendale's sister company, Waterdance, owns and operates a fleet of fishing boats from Brixham Harbour.

The sale of Occombe Farm is set to be discussed and decided by the cabinet of Torbay Council at a meeting on Tuesday.

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