Torbay’s former Living Coasts site is set for a new lease of life as ARC Marine signs an exclusivity agreement with Torbay Council and the Wild Planet Trust to transform the location into a cutting-edge marine restoration centre.
The move signals a significant step forward in converting the once-popular coastal zoo into an innovative hub dedicated to ocean conservation, marine habitat regeneration, and sustainable development.
ARC Marine to Establish Headquarters and R&D Centre
ARC Marine, a pioneering firm in subsea protection and marine habitat restoration, has been officially named the new tenant of the prominent Torquay site. The company is now entering legal discussions to take over the premises, with plans already in motion to establish its operational headquarters and a research and development centre.
Backed by substantial investment, the redevelopment will support ARC Marine’s expanding global projects, offering a base for ongoing marine restoration efforts across the UK, Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.
Driving Innovation in the Blue Economy
The proposed centre will not only serve as a hub for scientific research and technological advancement but will also prioritise education and public outreach. The facility aims to promote innovation in ocean conservation and bolster initiatives within the sustainable blue economy.
Key benefits of the new centre include:
- Enhanced marine ecosystem restoration efforts
- Creation of skilled local employment opportunities
- Educational collaboration with institutions and community groups
- Strengthened the reputation of Torbay as a centre for marine science
Homegrown Talent Supporting Global Goals
A large portion of ARC Marine’s workforce hails from the Torbay area, with many having studied at South Devon College, the University of Plymouth, or the University of Exeter. The new headquarters will allow local talent to remain rooted in their community while contributing to international environmental efforts.
Tom Birbeck, Founder and 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.”
Council and Conservation Leaders Back the Project
Cllr Chris Lewis, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Place Development and Economic Growth at Torbay Council, said: “We are thrilled that with the Wild Planet Trust we have been able to work together to find a new user for the prominent harbourside location. The location lends itself perfectly to being a world-class marine research and development hub.
“What makes this even more special is ARC Marine is a local company that already has a base in the area. By keeping their operations within Torbay, they can continue to grow local talent and inspire a new generation of marine conservationists.”
Torbay Council and the Wild Planet Trust have both endorsed the agreement, highlighting its potential to revitalise the long-vacant site while making a meaningful contribution to global marine protection efforts.
A spokesperson from Torbay Council stated: “This is a unique opportunity to reimagine Living Coasts as a beacon of marine innovation. We’re proud to support a project that combines local expertise with a global mission.”
With the legal framework now in progress and development plans underway, ARC Marine’s new base in Torquay promises to make waves in marine science and conservation, breathing new life into one of Devon’s most recognisable coastal landmarks.
Stephen Kings, Interim CEO of Wild Planet Trust, said: “The Trustees at Wild Planet Trust have worked hard to find the best company to operate on the former Living Coasts site. We have undergone an open and diligent process and have concluded that ARC Marine is that company.
As a conservation education and research charity, we have noted that ARC Marine is local to Torbay and has a wonderful reputation, coupled with exciting visionary plans to move to and then develop the Living Coasts site.
ARC Marine are very much aligned with Wild Planet Trust’s core mission of how to live more sustainably with nature, leading to the outcome of ‘Helping Halt Species Decline.”
