For those pining for more mature, taller trees on Armada Way, the Council has listened and more than 200 trees now feature in its current proposals for the scheme.
The plans, which are currently being consulted on, propose a total of 202 trees in the north of Armada Way (between Royal Parade and North Cross Roundabout). Whilst many of these would be new trees, we have also found a way to keep the majority of the trees that were due to be felled earlier this year. The new proposals include a considerably higher number of trees on Armada Way – which was 153 before the felling and 174 trees in the original, now scrapped, design.
All the trees when planted will be at a height of between 3.5 to 8 metres (or 11 to 27 feet) and will be selected for their suitability for an urban landscape. They will grow significantly over time.
The principle of ‘right tree, right place’ has been integral to the design. And, following feedback from local environmental groups, species have been carefully selected so that they can thrive in an urban environment and changing climate. Some have been picked for particular wildlife appeal and others for their shady canopy or beautiful blossom and leaves. Species include; Field Maple, Gold and Himalayan Birch, Scots Pine, Love Tree, Silver Birch and Norway Maple.
As one of the key features of the proposed scheme is a sustainable urban drainage system, the trees that will be planted will be fed by rainwater stored within huge underground storage tanks beneath the ground, giving the trees a much more constant source of nutrients.
A vast array of shrubs and wildflowers will also be planted as part of the administration’s goal to achieve a biodiversity net gain of 20 per cent, positively support wildlife – in particular pollinators – in the city centre and reduce our carbon footprint. Bug hotels and bird boxes will also be installed throughout to encourage wildlife, while reed beds will provide much-needed natural filtration for the water being recirculated from the new drainage system.
Councillor Tom Briars-Delve, Plymouth City Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment and Climate Change, said: “I know that the previous Council Leader’s decision to fell the trees divided opinion. Whilst this new Council can’t bring them back, re-greening Armada Way is an important priority for us and we appreciate how much this means to many residents.
“We want a modern-day city centre that is thriving environmentally as well as economically, with enhanced biodiversity, ample canopy cover and solar panels that will assist with our carbon neutral ambitions. Boosting the number and variety of trees is a central part of our new plans and why we’re also looking at a separate project for a new urban forest outside the Crowne Plaza.
“We have worked really hard with our arboriculturist team to ensure they are the right trees, in the right places. We will be looking to source the majority of the trees from UK nurseries and, once planted, our innovative water system will help support them for decades to come.”
To see all the proposals for Armada Way and have your say, please go to: LetsTalkArmadaWay.co.uk before 28 November 2023.