Historic Environment

The Torbay Archaeology Service operates within the administrative area of Torbay Council, which is part of the historic county of Devon but since local government reorganisation in 1998, a unitary authority.

The service maintains the Torbay Historic Environment Record and curates the archaeological resource, principally through Planning & Development Services.

Conservation Areas

Conservation areas can be defined as "Areas of special architectural or historic interest, the character or appearance of which it is desirable to preserve or enhance".

Listed Buildings

A 'listed building' is a building, object or structure that has been judged to be of national historical or architectural interest.

Archaeological Consultancy

Archaeological remains are irreplaceable. They are evidence - for prehistoric periods, the only evidence - of the past development of our civilisation.

Archaeology and Development Control

Archaeological deposits may be adversely affected by development. All planning applications are checked for their possible adverse impact upon the archaeology using the Historic Environment Record (HER).

Conservation Advice

In a conservation area, you need planning permission for changes to buildings which would normally be permitted.

Conservation Area Character Appraisals

Conservation areas vary widely in their nature, character and extent