The 3-storey Corbyn Head will be demolished to make way for a controversial six-storey replacement.
An Exeter based company will pull down the existing hotel over the winter.
Torbay Council approved plans for a new 152-bed hotel but those against the proposals claimed it would set a precedent for high-rise development leading to Torquay ending up like Benidorm.
Paignton man wanted by police
Have you seen Carl Davies?
Taxi driver warned after third speeding ticket
Caught twice in four days by 'invisible' speed camera
Murder investigation underway in Plymouth
Man in custody
Attempted murder arrest after alleged Newton Abbot stabbing
Man and woman remain in hospital
East Devon food bank readies fundraising push
The Ottery Larder supports 500 people per week
New Dartmoor boss says job is a dream come true
'I am delighted to be here, and I see huge opportunities'
