Morgan Sindall Construction has begun works on the Royal Parade Bus Improvement Scheme in Plymouth City Centre - a transformative project designed to enhance public transport infrastructure and improve the pedestrian experience along one of the city's busiest routes.
Commissioned by Plymouth City Council and procured via the SCAPE Construction Framework, the scheme will run until Spring 2026 and will deliver wide-ranging improvements to Royal Parade, enhancing accessibility while ensuring continued access for businesses and residents throughout the programme.
The contract was awarded following successful projects with Plymouth City Council at Old Town Street, New George Street, and Armada Way.
Key elements of the project include kerb realignment on the north side of Royal Parade, full carriageway resurfacing, and structural works to strengthen the footway. The scheme will also see the installation of high-quality modular granite paving in a consistent civic pattern, contributing to a more attractive and cohesive public realm.
Traffic flow and safety will be improved through reconfigured bus bays in a new sawtooth layout and the installation of average speed cameras with associated road markings and signage.
The pedestrian crossing at Armada Way will be upgraded to a toucan, providing better connectivity for cyclists along this vital city centre corridor.
Drawing on experience, Morgan Sindall has implemented tried and tested solutions including pre-cast concrete slabs and ramps to shop doorways, enabling local businesses to remain open throughout the construction period and minimising disruption to Plymouth's retail and commercial community.
As part of its commitment to developing local talent, Morgan Sindall will provide work placements and work experience opportunities during the project, alongside work taster days to give local people insight into construction careers.
Graham Kingdon, Area Director for Morgan Sindall in the South West, said: “Royal Parade is a central part of Plymouth’s civic and commercial identity, and this scheme will make it safer, more accessible, and better suited to modern public transport needs.
“Drawing on our experience delivering similar improvements, we’re using tried-and-tested methods to keep disruption to a minimum - helping shops stay open and the city stay connected while work progresses.
“We’re proud to play a part in creating a more vibrant, sustainable city centre and look forward to delivering lasting benefits for residents, businesses and visitors alike.”
Councillor John Stephens, cabinet member for Strategic Planning and Transport said: “Nearly 25 per cent of households in Plymouth do not have a car and with the city’s population expected to grow, improving sustainable travel choices is vital to keeping the city moving.
“With 100 services an hour using Royal Parade, this is a key part of the bus network. Making improvements at this key point will cut queuing and double stacking of buses and help to make services across the city more reliable as a result.”
Mark Robinson, Group Chief Executive at SCAPE, said: “SCAPE and Morgan Sindall have a strong track record of collaboratively delivering impactful regeneration projects in Plymouth city centre, including recently, the transformational improvements to Old Town Street and New George Street. The Royal Parade scheme is another exciting initiative that will bring lasting benefits to the local community.
“Through our Gold Standard-verified Construction Framework, we are committed to accelerating project delivery while maintaining cost and time certainty, ensuring real value for our clients.”
The Royal Parade Bus Improvement Scheme forms part of Plymouth City Council’s wider commitment to sustainable transport, improved air quality, and an inclusive, future-ready city centre.
