Plymouth Sound National Marine Park commences second phase of its £10 million waterfront regeneration project.
Mount Batten Peninsula is set to benefit from over £4million of investment, in a series of improvement works, that will ensure the Mount Batten Centre and its surrounding area become an accessible gateway to Plymouth Sound National Marine Park.
As one of the key gateways to Plymouth Sound National Marine Park, Mount Batten Centre, will undergo a series of enhancements to improve inclusive access to the Park. The reception area will be opened up to provide a welcoming space with key information about the centre, peninsula and National Marine Park. Whilst the centre’s new changing facilities have been designed to meet both Sport England and Changing Places standards, to enable everyone the opportunity to experience the activities available at the centre.
A new ground floor café with direct access to outdoor seating and spectacular waterfront views will offer a new space to enjoy all year round. Customers will be able to choose from a locally sourced menu, with both dine in and takeaway options available. It is anticipated that the new facility will provide a welcome boost to the centre’s existing offer.
In addition to the new internal facilities, substantial improvements will be made externally to the areas immediately surrounding the centre and the 17th Century Artillery Tower. To enhance visitor experience, new outdoor terraced seating areas will provide space for people to relax and enjoy being next to the water creating an ambient welcome to the centre.
The historic Mount Batten Tower will benefit from additional pathways offering better access to the tower plateau to enable more people to enjoy the views across Plymouth Sound National Marine Park.
To begin the transformation Plymouth Sound National Marine Park have awarded local construction company, Classic Builders, a £2.8 million contract to enhance Mount Batten Peninsula. The work, which is due to commence later this month, is made possible through funds from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, Plymouth City Council and the Levelling Up Fund through the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.
Council Leader, Tudor Evans adds:
‘We want to ensure our local heritage is protected and enhanced so that it is as accessible as it can be whilst providing new and exciting places for people to enjoy and explore.’
Work will commence later this month (November) in a phased approach to limit impact on the peninsula. Completion is expected between Spring and Summer 2025 ready for an exciting future on the water.
Esther Pearson, CEO Mount Batten Centre, comments:
‘We're committed to sharing the joy and benefits of being on, under or near the sea with our community. Whether it's trying a new water sport, relaxing by the water, or enjoying our new cafe, this is an exciting project that will support us in our aim of giving 10,000 people each year the opportunity to connect with nature, and each other, on the stunning Mount Batten peninsula and within Plymouth Sound National Marine Park’.
Mount Batten marks the next step in a £10 million waterfront regeneration plan to improve access via key gateways to Plymouth Sound National Marine Park.
Find out more about Plymouth Sound National Marine Park and The National Lottery Heritage Fund The Horizons Project - Plymouth Sound National Marine Park