City centre leisure scheme for Plymouth

Revised plans for the £40M Bretonside multiplex scheme in Plymouth have been approved and work is expected to start soon.

The new plans reveal that the scheme, which will replace the old and tired Bretonside bus station, will have fewer restaurants, more cinema seats and be topped with a “sky bar”.

Developers, British Land will make the cinema one level but it will contain 12 screens including an IMAX.

Already owning nearby Drake Circus, British Land asked for permission to reduce the number of restaurants from 16 to 14 – this has been approved by Plymouth City Council.

The new complex will help to reinvigorate and restore Plymouth city centre and its historic Barbican and waterfront areas.

British Land previously revealed that the scheme will contain 420 car park spaces inside the building. However, previously planned exterior canopies have been dropped from the project.

Richard Wagenhauser Associate Director at project architect Corstorphine + Wright, said: The new leisure complex is one of the largest developments to come to Plymouth in recent years and we have strived to create a unique design that pushes boundaries and enhances the city’s image as a vibrant tourist and leisure destination.

“One of our biggest drivers has been to create a development that does not just stand alone, but contributes to the transformation of Plymouth as a whole by improving connectivity and the way in which people navigate and enjoy the city.

“This has involved relocating the old Bretonside bus station and in its place creating a new landmark building with extensive public realm spaces, incorporating soft landscaping, public art and feature lighting. We look forward to beginning work and delivering this exciting new development to the public.”