Today marks a transformative moment for Plymouth. We are thrilled to announce a series of major government funding wins that will secure high-skilled jobs, cut NHS waiting lists, and back our city’s world-class cultural scene.
These announcements come on the back of a hugely successful period for our community, following the £50 million Defence Growth Deal and the £20 million investment in marine autonomy. From the dockyard to the high street, the plan for Plymouth is coming together.
Three Huge Wins for Plymouth
1. A New Defence Technical Excellence College (£10 Million) In partnership with City College Plymouth, we have secured £10 million to create a specialist Defence Technical Excellence College. Plymouth is one of only five locations nationwide to be selected for this prestigious project. This college will be the engine room for our local economy, training the next generation of engineers and shipbuilders with the high-tech skills needed to lead the UK’s defence industry.
2. Securing the Future of Theatre Royal Plymouth (£8.3 Million) The Theatre Royal is the beating heart of our city’s arts scene. Through the Government’s “Arts Everywhere” Fund, the theatre has been awarded £8.3 million—more than the funding we would have received had we won City of Culture status! This investment will allow for vital upgrades, modernisation, and improved accessibility, ensuring this iconic venue remains fit for the future.
3. Expanding the City Centre “Health Village” (Up to £25 Million) Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting has confirmed funding for a second major Community Diagnostics Centre (CDC) at Colin Campbell Court. This “Health Village” will bring diagnostic services—like MRIs, CT scans, and X-rays—directly onto the high street. By moving 91,000 tests a year into the city centre, we are making healthcare more accessible and taking the pressure off Derriford Hospital.
Supporting Our Veterans
This week also saw the announcement of nearly £1 million for Improving Lives Plymouth. This funding will create the new Valour Centre for veteran support at Ernest English House, ensuring those who have served our country have a dedicated, integrated support hub right here in the city centre.
A Message from Luke Pollard and Fred Thomas
Luke Pollard MP said:
“Today is a massive vote of confidence in Plymouth.
We are seeing the plan come together: more skills for our young people, a revitalised city centre, shorter NHS waiting lists, and a world-class cultural offer. It is a proper team effort, and it shows that this Government is 100% behind Plymouth.“
Fred Thomas MP said:
“This is a fantastic day for Plymouth. These funding packages will bring a real boost to our city’s future.
I’m thrilled that City College has been awarded the status of a ‘Technical Excellence College’ – backed by a massive £10 million Government investment. This investment will help the college deliver high-tech skills and link our students to top employers.
It’s also great to see the work of Theatre Royal being recognised with £8.3 million funding as part of the Government’s Arts Everywhere Fund. Theatre Royal is a vital part of our community. This funding will help secure their future and ensure it continues to be accessible for local people.
Investment from this Labour Government will make a real difference locally, helping to support people learning new skills, taking pride in where they live, and bringing our community together.”
These wins are the result of tireless work from cross-Plymouth teams, and we want to thank everyone who helped us secure these investments. Whether it’s the new urgent care funding at Derriford or the boost to our technical education, Plymouth is finally getting the investment it deserves.