Prestigious award win for city centre project

25th March 2025

The works to rejuvenate Old Town and New George Street in the city centre have been recognised in the Best Landscape category at the Concrete Society Regional Awards (Devon and Cornwall). 

This accolade recognises the transformational regeneration of a formerly dated shopping street, now revitalised with high-quality materials to create a modern retail area fit for the 21st century.

The completed works have already attracted new businesses to Plymouth, bringing in business rates that can be reinvested into vital services. This influx of new retailers supports the city's growth ambitions and enhances the public realm.

The massive makeover has transformed the dated eighties landscaping, replacing it with islands of greenery, 25 new semi-mature trees, ornamental planting, and rain gardens. New granite paving has been installed to make the area more attractive and reduce the likelihood of trips and falls. Additionally, new street lighting and decorative lighting have been added to create a wow factor after dark, along with additional CCTV cameras to improve coverage. 

Councillor Mark Lowry, Plymouth City Council Cabinet Member responsible for city centre works, said: "The overall works are truly impressive and have made a significant impact on our city centre, breathing new life into what was once a dated area.

“The new greenery, trees, and ornamental planting have created a vibrant and welcoming space for shoppers, visitors and businesses. With the local business community already making use of the space for their events and activities. I look forward to seeing even more in the future.”

Councillor Lewis Allison, the new Champion for Second Homes Council Tax and Business Rate Growth, highlighted the economic benefits of the scheme. He added: "This new public area is modern, spacious and attractive and footfall is bucking the national trend.

“The completed works are already attracting new businesses to Plymouth, bringing in business rates that can be reinvested into vital services. This influx of new retailers supports our ambition for growth in city centre through higher quality public realm."