BDP sets out vision for the renewed Plymouth Civic Centre
Architects and designers from BDP have set out a new vision for the transformation of Plymouth’s Grade II-listed Civic Centre, as new images of the proposals are released and the project enters a period of public consultation.
The redevelopment aims to re-establish the landmark as a central part of the city’s civic and social life, with a design that retains the building’s architectural significance while introducing new homes, community uses and a Blue Green Skills Hub for City College Plymouth.
Originally completed in 1962 as part of the post-war reconstruction of Plymouth, the Civic Centre has long been recognised as a symbol of modern civic ambition. After years of under-use, the building now presents an opportunity to bring activity, purpose and public life back to Armada Way and Royal Parade by opening its doors once again to the people of Plymouth.
BDP’s design approach respects the character of the original architecture, while adapting the building for contemporary needs. The tower is proposed to accommodate more than 140 new homes, while the lower levels will provide residents’ amenities and education space for skills development, supporting a wider strategy for strengthening the city centre. The design team is working closely with the project partners to ensure that the building’s future makes full use of its prominent and symbolic position in the city.
The design will bring forward a distinctive and high-quality residential offer that reflects the Civic Centre’s heritage; retaining and enhancing the building’s historic character through the careful exposure of original fabric; and devising a coherent circulation strategy that unifies the existing structure while supporting intuitive movement and a strong sense of place.
The proposals also establish a mix of private rental homes, create transitional public realm that connects seamlessly with the surrounding city centre, and emphasise the building’s architectural significance. The design strengthens relationships with the Theatre Royal and the wider conservation area through sensitive, context-driven interventions, and commits to a fully inclusive environment that responds to a wide range of access needs.
Public consultation is now underway, offering residents, community groups and stakeholders the opportunity to shape how the Civic Centre will be used and experienced. Feedback from this process will inform the next stage of design development ahead of a future planning submission.
“Adaptive reuse has the ability to restore purpose and relevance to buildings that have shaped a city’s identity. For the Civic Centre, it allows us to reconnect this landmark with the community it was built to serve. Our vision is to retain the clarity and confidence of the original structure while introducing well-crafted homes and generous shared spaces that support modern urban living. This project is about giving the building a meaningful civic role again, one that is rooted in Plymouth’s past but firmly focused on its future.”
