What lies beneath the surface of the New Town?

There’s much more of an ensemble feel to this second episode of James Goss’ new tale for 1950s Torchwood, as Andy Davidson is given the (distinctly redundant) advice not to trust Norton Folgate – as if he hadn’t worked that one out for himself many years ago (in all senses). Andy and Lizbeth Hayhoe try to work out quite what’s going on, and why parts of Ashenden that you’d expect to be no longer needed now the New Town has been built are still in operation…

There’s a mounting feeling of dread as we learn more about the place, with Gideon’s welcoming talk and what that leads to making both participants and listeners question. Why is it so welcoming? Why is everyone so insistent on going for a picnic on the beach? Goss ensures that every time you think the plot’s going one way, it actually heads in a different direction – and we’re left feeling distinctly ambivalent about Norton. (So no change there then, really!)

Peter Doggart’s sound design and Blair Mowat’s score aid in the establishment of the mood, and the horror in Dervla Kirwan’s voice is matched by Samuel Barnett’s determination as we head towards some key revelations.

Verdict: Tightening the screws in another strong episode. 9/10

Paul Simpson

Click here to order from Big Finish