SCAPE Construction Framework supports major transformation of Plymouth's Armada Way

The scheme was delivered through the SCAPE Construction Framework, with Morgan Sindall delivering works across four key areas of Plymouth City Centre.

As part of Plymouth City Council's wider Better Places Programme, the project has transformed Armada Way into a greener, safer, and more accessible destination designed to support city centre living, leisure, events, and active travel for decades to come.

Originally conceived as part of the renowned Abercrombie and Watson Plan for Plymouth in 1943, Armada Way was designed as a grand civic boulevard symbolising the city's post-war confidence and renewal. Over time, however, ageing infrastructure and underused public spaces diminished its role as a key city centre destination.

The regeneration programme has sought to restore the scale and ambition of the original vision while creating a contemporary public space that meets the needs of modern Plymouth.

Reflecting our strong commitment to sustainability and delivering lasting value, the scheme features 176 new trees, increasing the total tree count to more than 200. The planting includes a diverse mix of native and ornamental species, carefully selected for their resilience to disease and changing climate conditions. New wildlife habitats, including bug hotels, bird boxes, reed beds, and wildflower planting, have also been introduced to encourage pollinators and enhance biodiversity across the city centre.

The project also incorporates a sustainable urban drainage system (SuDS), partially powered by solar canopies at Place de Brest, that can divert up to 77% of surface water from the existing combined sewer network.

Reflecting our commitment to maximising social value, around 500 seating spaces have been installed throughout the route, alongside flexible event spaces at the amphitheatre, Place de Brest and near the Sundial. Each location has been equipped with power and water connections to support markets, performances, cultural events, and community activities, helping to create a vibrant and inclusive destination for residents and visitors. Further enhancing the area's appeal for families, Armada Way now features a 1,120 sq m destination play village, equivalent in size to almost five tennis courts.

Active travel has also been prioritised through the introduction of a new 2.5-metre-wide cycle route, and a dedicated mobility hub provides Beryl Bike hire facilities alongside covered cycle storage.

Safety improvements include upgraded lighting columns running throughout the scheme, feature lighting designed to enhance the public realm after dark, enhanced CCTV coverage, and improved sightlines to help create a safer, more welcoming environment.

Mark Robinson continued: "Through the SCAPE Construction Framework, early contractor involvement and strategic guidance helped accelerate delivery from the outset. We look forward to seeing local people and visitors enjoy this revitalised space for years to come."

Mark Lowry added: "We have created places to play, places to sit and places for bands and events – not to mention the 25,000 plants to enjoy. The location has been a hive of activity and I would like to thank all the workers who have been operating in a very public place, in a constrained environment and to tight time scales – they have done a great job.”

The SCAPE Construction Framework has supported the delivery of several major projects in Plymouth City Centre with Morgan Sindall, including the Old Town Street and New George Street improvements, restoration works to the Grade II-listed Civic Square park and gardens, and the Royal Parade Improvement Scheme.