Why we commissioned an independent review
In March 2023, 129 trees were felled on Armada Way as part of a regeneration scheme in Plymouth city centre. The decision and the way it was handled generated significant public concern and national attention.
In response, the Council commissioned an independent learning review to understand what happened, why it happened, and how we can do better in the future. This was not about assigning blame, but about learning lessons and improving how we work.
Who conducted the review?
The review was led by a panel of independent experts, appointed through SOLACE (the Society of Local Authority Chief Executives), with extensive experience in local government, environmental projects, and governance.
- David Williams – former Chief Executive of Portsmouth City Council, Gosport Borough Council and Guildford Council, with experience in leading major regeneration projects.
- Sue Foster OBE – former Strategic Director who has worked in a number of local authorities – including Hackney, Lambeth and Kensington and Chelsea Councils, leading on areas such as Planning, Place, Regeneration and Neighbourhoods.
- Jeanette McGarry – Monitoring Officer at the Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames and West Lyndsey District Council, with extensive experience in carry out reviews – specifically looking at governance, legal services and decision making.
What was the purpose of the review?
The terms of reference for the independent learning review into the handling of the original scheme for Armada Way, which led to the felling of 109 trees, were agreed by Plymouth City Council’s Cabinet on 20 May 2024.
What the review found
The panel reviewed extensive documentation, court evidence, and conducted interviews with staff, partners, and residents. The panel identified several key areas where the Council’s processes fell short, including:
- Governance and decision-making
- Engagement and consultation with the public
- Project management
- Support for staff wellbeing
The review made a number of recommendations to strengthen how we manage major projects, make decisions, and engage with our communities.
Our response
See the Council's public statement on our website.
We’ve published a detailed action plan that sets out how we will respond to the recommendations. This includes:
- A new engagement and consultation framework
- A refreshed corporate project management approach
- Stronger governance and decision-making processes
- Improved support for staff and elected members
We are committed to delivering these changes in an open and transparent way, and to rebuilding trust with our residents.
The report from the Independent Learning Review and Council Action Plan will be discussed at Full Council on 2 June 2025.