MP hits out at growing cost of city centre plan

JOHNNY MERCER CALLS FOR ANSWERS ON EXTRA ARMADA WAY SPENDING

- ALISON STEPHENSON

PLYMOUTH Moor View MP Johnny Mercer has hit out at the increased cost of the revamped Armada Way scheme, but the city’s leading Labour councillors say it will be worth every penny.

The ambitious plan including more than 200 trees, a play village, a sustainable drainage system, cycle paths, performance ‘pop up’ spaces, seating, wildlife features, water features and eating areas, is now expected to cost around £37 million.

The idea, supported by city councillors, will be decided by the council’s cabinet next month, with leader Tudor Evans (Lab, Ham) saying the public wants them to get on with it.

The scheme is expected to play “a pivotal role” in supporting new investment.

But fears have been raised by Conservatives over the potential soaring costs of the project.

Johnny Mercer, Conservative MP for Plymouth Moor View, said questions need to be asked over the escalating budget. He said: “Businesses on Armada Way have waited since March for the council to get their plans underway. Having now completed their consultation, I am greatly alarmed by the reported £22.8m that will be added to the project. Meanwhile, we have empty shop fronts on Armada Way that are not paying business rates. “