Bideford Quay

Incorporates flood defences, new buildings and an attractive public promenade in an outstanding example of waterfront design. Designed by Devon County Council.

Small ports and seaside towns have been in decline in recent decades. Changes in tourism, combined with the decline in fishing, manufacturing and agriculture present severe challenges to those trying to stem or reverse this decline. The waterfront public realm, whether a promenade or harbour side, tends to play a central role in the regeneration of coastal settlements and raises important issues for streetscape design.

Bideford lies on the west bank of the River Torridge on the north Devon coast. It is unusual in retaining a working port. As a focal point of the Tarka Trail and the National Cycle Network, it is also an important tourist destination for day trippers, holiday makers, and especially for walkers and cyclists.

The regeneration of Bideford quay shows how flood defence works, traffic engineering, architecture and public art can merge to create a distinctive and successful example of maritime streetscape. It also illustrates the difficulties inherent in change and the complexities of reconciling conflicting priorities.