Torquay Case Study

Question 1

What does the “Empire State of Mind” Torquay parody by a resident suggest about Torquay?

Answer 1

• It is an unorganised area with “sirens all around”
• Highlights drinking culture “the drinks they get thrown up”
• Describes Torquay as a rough area with many claiming benefits
• Many locals (other insiders) commented on the YouTube video, agreeing with the song saying it was spot on

Question 2

Describe Torquay’s built environment

Answer 2

• Many hotels -> tourist destination
• Seaside town architecture
• Lots of chain stores such as Pizza Hut

Question 3

Describe Torquay’s population change

Answer 3

• Population has moved from having young working age majority (over 70% aged under 45) to a high proportion of over 65s -> one of the highest proportions in England (projected that in the next decade 1 in 3 residents will be 65+)
• Number of over 65s doubled in the past 30 years

Question 4

Why has Torquay experienced a change in its demographic?

Answer 4

• During the 1880s there was a working age majority due to Torquay’s role as a bustling seaside holiday destination
• During the 1950s the move towards an ageing population reflected Torquay becoming a healthy seaside retirement town
• Currently this trend has continued with younger groups leaving the town as well due to local industries only offering seasonal or low wages

Question 5

Describe deprivation in Torquay

Answer 5

• Deprivation is concentrated in central Torquay wards such as Tormohun -> highest crime rate due to highest concentrations of pubs and nightclubs
• Outer wards such as Cockington with Chelston have the lowest deprivation levels

Question 6

Why is there a clear rich poor divide in Torquay?

Answer 6

• Many of the older, wealthier population may have moved to Torquay for retirement with highly contrasts the working residents who likely have low wage/seasonal jobs
• Cycle of deprivation in more deprived wards

Question 7

Describe the difference in ethnic groups between Torquay and Reading

Answer 7

• Reading is 56% white British while Torquay is 96.8%

Question 8

Describe regeneration in Torquay

Answer 8

• The Strand -> proposal to deliver a 154 bedroom hotel as well as ground floor retail space, could create over 150 full time jobs -> public led
• Union Square -> redevelopment project cost £60-70 million, will provide 102 new homes, help diversify the economy and provide new healthcare facilities -> affordable housing, public led

Question 9

What percentage of young people in Torquay plan to leave in 2018?

Answer 9

94%