March 08th, 2018

​8th March 2018
 
PRESS RELEASE
 
The Architecture Centre, Devon and Cornwall has long-recognised the exceptional and unique qualities of the post-war Abercrombie ‘Plan for Plymouth’ and the fine legacy of mid-20th century architecture that flowed from it.  We were pleased to celebrate this in our “PLYMOUTH: 20th Century City” educational project in 2009[1].
It remains the proudest national product from this innovative period of urban design and city-planning - fulfilled at a scale and with a confidence that is unequalled elsewhere in the UK.  It seems entirely appropriate to recognise the colossal civic endeavour and artistic achievement by now conveying a Conservation Area Status upon it, and we welcome the new report by the 20th Century Society that draws our attention, once again, to the particular character and interest within this coherent body of work that is still largely intact. 
The next chapter in the development of the city centre will undoubtedly need to be written but, with a Conservation Area Status in place then, we would hope and expect that new work and adaptations will be steered towards a design approach that respects and responds sensitively to the important legacy that we have inherited – and that any civilised culture would surely cherish?
 
Mark Pearson
Executive Director, Regional Design Support


[1] A free 42 page booklet “PLYMOUTH: 20th century city – Heritage Trail Buildings Guide” is still available and may be obtained by sending a stamped and self-addressed A5 envelope to ACD+C, c/o 26 Grenville Road, Lostwithiel Cornwall PL22 0EP