Development of Phase 2 takes shape

19 Sep 2018

The planning application for the second phase of Plymouth’s pioneering Oceansgate project has been submitted.

Oceansgate, based in Devonport Dockyard’s South Yard, is transforming disused Ministry of Defence land into a hub for marine businesses.

The first phase of the development, which was formally opened in March this year, saw the creation of 2,600 square metres of office and industrial space with new tenants including the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, Surejust and Trend Marine.

The Phase 2 plans include a three-storey office building and a further 15 light industrial units. The design of the buildings is in keeping with the rich history of the dockyard, with Plymouth limestone and granite amongst the materials used.

This particular area of South Yard holds huge historical significance and was formerly home to the original entrance to Devonport dockyard, including the main gates. The gates appear to have been dismantled sometime during the 1740s and rebuilt to form a wider gateway with guard houses on either side. At this time, two new pedestrian arches were also introduced.

The plans propose to reinstate the gateway arch to create a sense of arrival to this historic site and return the original stone balls – which were removed during the Blitz – to their place on top of the gates.

Councillor Tudor Evans OBE, Leader of Plymouth City Council, said:

“Oceansgate is a hugely important development, bringing new businesses and jobs to the city. Phase 2 alone could create up 180 new jobs once it’s finished.

We’re transforming disused land into a home for marine enterprise, driving economic growth while ensuring that the plans honour the site’s incredibly significant history.”

A community engagement event was held at Oceansgate earlier this month, allowing local residents and businesses the opportunity to view the proposed plans for Phase 2.

Plymouth City Council have put forward £11.6 million towards Phase 2 and an application has been made to the European Regional Development Fund for a further £2.2 million.

Kier Group have been appointed to lead the construction work on Phase 2, with AECOM acting as lead consultants.

Chris Taylor, AECOM Director for the South West Region, said:

“AECOM Project Management are extremely proud to continue working with Plymouth City Council to realise their vison of creating a world leading Marine Industries Campus.

“Following on the success of the first phase we look forward to working with the Council and project partners to deliver the second phase, providing innovative environments for marine industries to thrive and grow and with it deliver wider employment and economic advantages to our Ocean City.”

Oceansgate has Enterprise Zone status which provides a number of benefits for the businesses located there, and maintains a gateway policy focusing on occupiers from marine and maritime sectors.