SCAPE Construction Framework Delivers Major Royal Parade Upgrade in Plymouth

We worked in collaboration with Morgan Sindall on the scheme, which forms part of a wider programme of works transforming Plymouth city centre into a greener, safer and more family-friendly place.

Alongside the Royal Parade improvements, we are working with the council and Morgan Sindall to revitalise Old Town Street and New George Street, as well as restore the Grade II listed Civic Square park and gardens, all delivered through the SCAPE Construction Framework. Work is also progressing well on the transformation of Armada Way, which will serve as the gateway to the city by linking the train station with The Hoe.

Designed to enhance reliability at this key interchange, the scheme has increased the number of bus stops, easing congestion, and preventing the double stacking of buses.

With more than 100 bus services operating every hour and over nine million passenger journeys each year, Royal Parade is a critical part of Plymouth’s transport network. The completed improvements will support smoother operations, improve passenger experience, and encourage a shift away from private car use – something that’s particularly important in a city where nearly a quarter of households don’t have access to a vehicle.

The project has introduced a shallow sawtooth layout, increasing bus stops from 12 to 15 and improving manoeuvrability by removing the need for buses to reverse. Fifteen upgraded bus shelters have now been installed, providing improved seating and accessibility, with green roofs scheduled to be cultivated in spring.

Extensive technical works were undertaken to address challenging ground conditions beneath Royal Parade, where historic slab deterioration had led to carriageway movement and cracking. As a result, full-depth reconstruction was completed during overnight closures, alongside resurfacing, new road markings, and paving improvements.

In addition, concrete slabs have been replaced with high-quality modular granite paving throughout the project, significantly enhancing public areas. The tier one contractor has also upgraded the toucan crossing at Armada Way to improve connectivity for cyclists and pedestrians, while a new average speed camera system supports safer and smoother traffic flow.

Throughout works, we worked closely with Morgan Sindall and Plymouth City Council to minimise disruption, maintain daytime operations, and ensure businesses could remain open and accessible.

Alongside the delivery of vital transport infrastructure, and reflecting our commitment to delivering social value, the project placed a strong emphasis on creating meaningful social value for the local community. This included the delivery of numerous work experience placements, providing young people with hands-on insight into careers across construction and the built environment, alongside site visits for local schools and university students. Primary school students also benefitted from carbon literacy sessions, helping to build early understanding of climate change and sustainability. A dedicated Work Taster Day also offered local secondary students practical, interactive experiences designed to inspire future career pathways.

Mark continued: "Through the SCAPE Construction Framework, we collaborated closely with our partner Morgan Sindall and Plymouth City Council to accelerate delivery, enable early contractor involvement, and ensure certainty around cost and time certainty. The result is a scheme that improves connectivity for the local community and leave a lasting legacy for years to come.”

John added: "We worked with the bus operators to reallocate some services at different stops to improve reliability. There have been some challenges on the way – mainly the relentless rain which dogged the resurfacing work – but we got there and a month ahead of schedule.”