Police and site owners respond to recent incidents at Beacon Quay
Local police have urged people to keep away from the former Living Coasts attraction on Beacon Quay after a series of incidents that have included damage, trespass and arson. The force said officers are working with site operators ARC Marine to identify those responsible and to deter further offences.
Devon and Cornwall Police said the site is not derelict and remains privately occupied, adding that unauthorised entry can quickly escalate into criminal offences such as burglary, criminal damage or arson. The neighbourhood team in Torquay has stepped up visible patrols in the area in response to recent reports.
"There is a misconception amongst some that this site has been abandoned and is there to be explored, that is simply not the case," said Torquay Neighbourhood Inspector Rob Harvey. "The former Living Coasts site remains privately occupied and unauthorised entry is trespass, which can quickly lead to criminal offences such as burglary, criminal damage or arson."
Police added that they have received reports of people putting themselves and others at risk by attempting to gain access to the site. Officers warned that restricted sites may contain hidden hazards that could result in serious injury. They asked parents and guardians specifically to speak to children about the dangers of entering such locations.
Securing the site: measures taken
According to the force, ARC Marine has taken steps to improve security following the incidents. Measures mentioned include the removal of roof netting — which some trespassers had been climbing — and enhancements to signage and CCTV on the premises.
- Increased police patrols by the Torquay neighbourhood team to deter and detect offenders.
- Removal of roof netting by ARC Marine to prevent climbing and reduce risk.
- Improved signage and CCTV to make the site’s private status clear and aid investigations.
| Issue | Action taken |
|---|---|
| Trespass and climbing on roof netting | Roof netting removed by ARC Marine |
| Damage and arson | Increased police patrols; investigations ongoing |
| Public safety concerns | Police appeal to parents/guardians; improved signage and CCTV |
Inspector Harvey said forces will continue to use all appropriate criminal and anti-social behaviour powers to pursue those responsible. "We will continue to work with ARC Marine and our partners to identify those responsible and keep the community safe," he added, urging residents not to encourage others to enter the site or to follow social media trends that might put them at risk or lead to a criminal record.
Local context and consequences
The former Living Coasts, a once-familiar attraction on Beacon Quay, has been a prominent landmark and its current status evidently causes confusion for some. The recent incidents have not only raised safety concerns but also created community unease around damage to property and the potential for dangerous fires.
For local people — including families, visitors and businesses close to the harbour — the increased police presence is a visible sign that the force is treating the matter seriously. The removal of climbing aids and bolstered surveillance by the site owner aims to reduce opportunities for trespass, but police emphasise that prevention also depends on public behaviour and parental supervision.
Officers say they will pursue any offences identified and that anyone with information about recent incidents at the Beacon Quay site should contact Devon and Cornwall Police to assist investigations.
For now, the clear message from the neighbourhood team is: keep away from the former Living Coasts site, respect private property, and think twice before joining in challenges or exploration that could cause harm to you or others.
