Work has started on turning the Grade II listed tower into 144 homes, a college skills hub and a public rooftop space.

After years of residents asking “when?”, Plymouth can finally say “now”.

The first phase of the Civic’s transformation has kicked off, 11 years after council staff moved out.

It’s already a hive of activity. Builders in hi-vis and hard hats are moving around the former Civic Centre car park, which is now the project compound. If you’re walking past, you might see cranes in place and mobile toilets moving in.

Social impact developer, Capital&Centric is behind the project, and Morgan Sindall are the builders. Initial works will cover setting up the compound and welfare facilities for the crew, putting up safety netting and scaffolding around the tower, stripping out some parts of the building, and removing asbestos.

Capital&Centric is turning the 14-storey tower into 144 design-led rental homes, creating a new landmark from the building that has divided Plymouth. City College Plymouth’s Renewable & Marine Skills Hub will take the lower floors, with a rooftop café-bar open to everyone crowning the top.

Tim Heatley, Co-Founder of Capital&Centric, said:

“I’ll be honest, I didn’t think I’d ever be this excited about a car park becoming a compound. But here we are. Boots are finally on the ground at the Civic.

“This is a major milestone. Some people have told us it would never happen, and this step is proof that we’re making it a reality.

“I know it’s a divisive building and everyone has an opinion on it. Plenty of Plymouth residents and visitors love it, many can’t stand it, and I’m not pretending otherwise. But we want to win more people over, and the best way to do that is to stop talking and start building.

“A huge thank you to Plymouth City Council, who have been incredibly supportive. We’re looking forward to carrying on working with the great team there.

“This landmark will belong to the city again, and this is the bit where it gets real. Watch this space.”

Councillor Matt Smith, Cabinet Member for Housing, City Centre Regeneration and Events at Plymouth City Council, said:

“We’ve all talked for years about this building and what needs to be done. Now it’s time for action and I am looking forward to seeing this site come alive with contractors getting on with the job. It’s massively exciting for me, the Council and the city centre.”