'Plymouth is on the up': First section of a controversial Armada Way project opens
The opening of Plymouth's long-awaited Armada Way regeneration project marks a "major milestone" for the city, according to the council leader. It has become one of the city's most divisive developments in recent years.
The first section, featuring the area surrounding the Phoenix Fountain, alongside a newly constructed amphitheatre and performance space, welcomed visitors this week.
The completion comes nearly two years after the incident that sparked widespread public anger and legal challenges.
At the opening, members of the public told ITV West Country: "I was a bit sceptical when they chopped the trees down, but this has opened up the space really nicely."
Another said: "I've been sat here watching [the work] for a lot of the time, so I've seen it go from rough ground to this. It's really nice."
At the unveiling today, leader for Plymouth City Council, Tudor Evans said: "That commitment to seeing it through is why we've had companies like Schroders buying up the Armada centre to invest in it on the basis of this project being implemented.
"This is why Homes England are here, on the other side of Armada Way, buying up a huge site here, a derelict building for new housing.
"Plymouth is on the up, the investors are really excited and this scheme will be a tribute to the people who have worked on it but more importantly, it'll be a sign of rebirth of our city centre."
A night that changed everything
In March 2023, Plymouth City Council's decision to fell 110 mature trees under cover of darkness sent shockwaves through the community.
The controversial move, carried out by the then Conservative-controlled authority, was intended to clear the way for urban improvements, but instead triggered fierce opposition from environmental campaigners and residents.
Protesters had been attempting to safeguard the trees, making the overnight operation particularly contentious.
The decision ultimately landed the council in the High Court and resulted in a comprehensive independent investigation.
Financial and political fallout
When Labour seized control of the council in May 2023, they inherited not just the controversy but also the financial consequences.
The new administration commissioned a fresh approach to the development, with costs spiralling to £30 million – more than double the original budget.
An independent review conducted by local government organisation Solace revealed the true extent of the damage caused by the tree-felling.
The additional costs totalled £3.3 million, though investigators suggest this represents 'the lower end of the likely cost.'
The financial breakdown includes over £480,000 in legal expenses and more than £1.3 million attributed to inflation due to project delays.
The review painted a picture of an organisation still grappling with the aftermath, noting 'regret, remorse, guilt, blame and defiance' persist within the council.
The council has accepted criticism of its decision-making processes, admitting it 'didn't get it right' and acknowledged that governance principles were poorly applied during the original planning phase.
As part of the restoration efforts, 29 new trees have been planted in the reopened section, with plans for 400 additional plant specimens and wildflower meadows.
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