Torbay

Torbay, unitary authority, southern coast, south-western England, on Tor Bay (an inlet of the English Channel). On April 1, 1998, the borough council that had administered Torbay in conjunction with Devon County Council, was replaced by Torbay unitary authority. The new administrative body is responsible for the provision of all local government services, including those previously provided by the county council. Although administered separately, Torbay remains geographically part of Devon. The new authority has an area of 63 sq km (24 sq mi).

Previously Torbay borough had been formed by the merging of the municipal borough of Torquay and the urban districts of Brixham and Paignton. This popular resort has a mild climate and fine beaches; the tourist industry is a major source of employment. Manufactured goods include terracotta and pottery. The old port of Brixham is still an active fishing centre. Kent's Cavern, located in the Torquay section, is rich in fossils and shows evidence of prehistoric human habitation. Also in the borough is Paignton Zoo. William of Orange landed at Brixham in 1688 before ascending the throne as William III. Population 129,702 (2001).