Regenerating Armada Way will be a cultural boost to Plymouth City Centre, says the Chief Executive of Plymouth Theatre Royal.
Culture is vital to Plymouth’s future. There are more than 1,500 people employed locally in the industry and over 365 businesses in the city that are classed as arts, entertainment and recreation.
The city centre is also the home of our flag ship theatre (Theatre Royal Plymouth), The Box and hosts an annual programme of live events out in the community, including Flavour Fest.
The new proposals for Armada Way hope to build on this – with space for more activities, festivals, markets, concerts, exhibitions and performances.
In the proposals, which are currently being consulted on, there are a number of spaces that are flexible for people to use, and pop-up spaces with water and power to host markets, live entertainment and art.
The proposals also include a new amphitheatre on the north piazza just down from the restored Phoenix Fountain, with seating for people to watch performances or other cultural activity.
Chief Executive of Theatre Royal Plymouth, James Mackenzie‑Blackman, is keen to see regeneration move forward, so even more cultural and creative activity can take place. He said:
“We need the regeneration of Armada Way for a number of reasons. Cities that are bold and ambitious about their futures need fantastic city centres. All of us who have roles living and working in the city centre are desperate for the regeneration to take place.
“Armada Way can definitely be used for a lot more cultural activity. At the Theatre Royal Plymouth we are committed to doing a lot more outside of our buildings, helping the people of our city to understand the role that creativity and culture can play in their lives. The plans for Armada Way will really help us to do that.”
Councillor Jemima Laing, Plymouth City Council Cabinet Member for Culture and Events, added:
“Our plans for Armada Way include more spaces for theatre, art, dance, music, markets, festivals and so much more.
“Transforming our City Centre will enable even more exciting, and importantly free, activities to take place. This will not only be great for the local community and those who visit our great city – but it will also be good for local business.
“We want Armada Way to be a vibrant, buzzing and fun city centre and I think our proposals achieve this.”
To see all the proposals for Armada Way and have your say, please go to: LetsTalkArmadaWay.co.uk before 28 November 2023.