Could Torquay lose its custody suite? MP highlights risks to public safety

Talks are set to take place next week over the future of the custody suite at Torquay police station, amid concerns that its closure could put pressure on other facilities in Exeter and Plymouth.

Devon and Cornwall Police stress that no final decision has been made. The review forms part of a wider assessment of custody suites across the two counties, including facilities in Exeter, Plymouth, Camborne, Newquay and Barnstaple.

Torbay Liberal Democrat MP Steve Darling has raised concerns about the potential impact on public safety. In a letter to Police and Crime Commissioner Alison Hernandez, he highlighted feedback from retired officers and local solicitors pointing to serious risks if detainees were processed outside the Bay.

“The Torquay custody suite is among the busiest in the region, processing close to 5,000 detainees annually,” he said. “Torbay’s night-time economy and summer influx of visitors generate high levels of disorder and violent crime. Transporting detainees 40 miles to Exeter or Plymouth would leave Torbay dangerously exposed.”

Mr Darling added that centralising detainees elsewhere would divert officers from frontline duties, slow interviews and forensic work, and complicate access for solicitors, healthcare staff and interpreters. He also warned that poor transport links could create barriers for vulnerable individuals.

Deputy Chief Constable Jim Colwill confirmed a review is underway to assess how improvements can be made. “No final decision has been made. It is vital that we improve the capacity, resilience and operating environment of our custody estate,” he said, noting that current facilities present welfare, health and safety risks for staff and detainees.

The review will also consider the cost of bringing suites up to required standards, which exceeds existing police budgets. Improvements are needed to secure consistency across all six centres, while maintaining access to legal, healthcare and appropriate adult services.

Police and Crime Commissioner Alison Hernandez said her office would use the findings to inform future investment and ensure buildings meet safety regulations.

Mr Darling stressed that removing the Torquay facility would exacerbate existing challenges in Torbay, which has fewer policing resources than other parts of Devon and Cornwall.