Team Plymouth Launches Ambitious Plans for City’s Future

Team Plymouth has officially launched, outlining a strategic initiative aimed at leveraging significant investment in the defence sector to benefit the entire city of Plymouth. At a gathering on March 15, 2024, at the Market Hall in Devonport, city leaders emphasized the collaborative nature of this initiative, which includes representatives from government, military, and local organisations.

The UK government recently identified Plymouth as one of five designated defence growth areas, earmarking a share of a substantial £250 million investment. In addition, the Ministry of Defence is set to inject £4.4 billion into local facilities such as HM Naval Base Devonport and Babcock’s Devonport Royal Dockyard. This investment is expected to provide a foundation for economic growth in the region over the next seventy years.

Tudor Evans, leader of Plymouth City Council, conveyed optimism about the initiative’s potential to transform the local economy. “It’s going to be a big pie and we want everybody to have a slice,” he stated, addressing an audience of over 100 delegates, including ministers, Members of Parliament, military officials, and senior civil servants. The aim is to enhance regeneration, skills development, and employment opportunities, with projections indicating an increase of 25,000 jobs over the next decade.

Investment and Infrastructure Plans

Central to Team Plymouth’s agenda is a commitment to breaking down barriers to education and opportunity. Alongside the investment in the dockyard, plans include the construction of 10,000 homes in partnership with Homes England, as well as a £30 million regeneration project for Armada Way. This initiative aims to create a vibrant urban living environment comparable to major cities such as Manchester and Liverpool.

Evans highlighted the importance of ensuring that local residents are aware of the opportunities available to them. “Yes, there will be traditional skills needed for the dockyard, but there is a new era in defence in Plymouth,” he remarked. The demand for skilled project managers and engineers is expected to rise as the city adapts to evolving industry needs.

Educational outreach will also play a critical role in this initiative. Team Plymouth plans to promote long-term careers in STEM subjects within primary and secondary schools, while also recognizing the growth potential in the creative, cultural, and hospitality sectors as Plymouth becomes a more attractive place to live and work.

A Call to Action

Luke Pollard, MP for Sutton and Devonport and Minister of State for Defence, reinforced the urgency of the moment, stating, “Plymouth’s time is now and it needs to seize the moment.” The city is set to create 5,000 new jobs at Babcock alone, along with an additional 2,000 construction jobs. Pollard noted that Plymouth’s recent designation as the National Centre for Marine Autonomy has sparked interest from various firms looking to relocate or establish businesses in the region.

“This is our moment; if we don’t seize it with both hands now, it could pass us by,” he cautioned, underscoring the importance of collaboration among local organisations. Babcock International Group has already pledged to double its intake of apprentices and graduates through its commitment to the nuclear skills taskforce.

John Gane, a representative from Babcock, announced that the number of apprentices has already increased from 175 to 241 this year, with plans for further growth in the coming years. “It’s a step up, and there will be a step up again next year, ensuring a clear career pathway for our recruits,” he stated.

As Team Plymouth embarks on this ambitious journey, the collective enthusiasm and commitment from local leaders and organisations signal a transformative era ahead for the city.