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Civic Square

What are we doing?

We are reviving one of Plymouth’s most important public spaces, the Civic Square.

The Grade II listed Park and Garden is getting a makeover to showcase some of its existing heritage features as well as reinstate some of the paving patterns that were part of its original design.

The project is part of Plymouth’s High Street Heritage Action Zone, a partnership between Historic England and the Council and will see the restoration of its most important heritage features as well as new additions to make cycling, walking and public transport more attractive.

The scheme is a more streamlined version of the original proposals unveiled in 2021.

The current work is the first phase and a second phase is planned for improvements specifically aimed at making the square more to attractive for walkers and cyclists.

Phase one

  • New granite tessellated paving – the Bow Tie paving patterns will be reinstated.
  • Repairing mid-century features such as the circular seating, pool copings which will be restored back to the original concrete, planter seating.
  • New copings around the garden islands
  • New ornamental planting and improved grass within the landscaped islands
  • Widen the path next to the Council House car park
  • Repair and relocation of seating
  • Tidying up the cobbles around the circular benches
  • New lighting

Phase 2

  • Planting two new trees and removing a dying tree in the grass area to the north of the café
  • on-street parking spaces in front of the courts is going to expand the square, with new spaces created on Princess Street and more spaces at the Guildhall car park.
  • Enhanced cycling provision along road running alongside
  • Access only vehicle provision along the ‘Armada Way carriageway’

The café kiosk is not affected by the works, which are being carried out by Morgan Sindall.

What will it look like?

Why are we doing this?

Civic Square is a Grade II registered park and garden and is important to the city’s heritage. It is part of the civic layout of Plymouth planned in 1956 based on Patrick Abercrombie and Paton Watson's post-war Plan for Plymouth.

As well as preserving its 20th century credentials, the project includes very 21st century needs with a mobility hub including electric vehicle charge points, e-bikes, car clubs and information on local transport.

Who is paying for this?

The scheme costs £3.02m including £2,009,047 from the Transforming Cities Fund and £1,014,824 High Street Heritage Action Zone.

How long will the work take?

Work on phase one started in March 2023 and is due to be finished late June or early July. Phase 2 will follow shortly after.