Plymouth Live readers have been sharing their thoughts after Plymouth City Council urged people to respect Armada Way’s new water feature following its opening weekend.
The council reminded visitors to avoid walking through the planted reed beds and to keep rubbish out of the rill, which is far more than just an ornamental stream. Its filtered and recycled water supports thousands of plants and 176 trees while forming part of the sustainable drainage system that helps manage rainfall across Armada Way.
Thousands of people visited the £30 million regeneration scheme over the weekend, with families enjoying the water jets, play area and new public space.
In a Facebook post, the council set out “the rules of the rill”, asking people not to damage the reeds, to paddle away from planted areas, keep dogs from fouling the water, and use the dedicated splash area for playing.
The rill is the first scheme of its kind to combine an attractive water feature with a sustainable urban drainage system, reducing pressure on Plymouth’s sewer network while helping keep the new planting healthy.
The revamped Armada Way officially opened last weekend after almost two years of construction. Backed by more than 60 per cent external funding, the project is expected to play a major role in the wider regeneration of Plymouth city centre by attracting more visitors, investment and new homes.
Commenter Alex R says: “It’s only been open a few days and the online moaners are already out in force. I walked past yesterday and it looked brilliant. Children were enjoying the play equipment and fountains, adults were cooling their feet in the water, and others were relaxing in the shade having lunch. Projects like this are exactly what can help bring more people into town. Once people are there, they’re more likely to spend money, which gives businesses a reason to open and invest. It genuinely looks fantastic. Sadly, there will always be a handful of miserable people who seem determined to complain about absolutely everything instead of appreciating something positive.”
Alistair S agrees: “Alex R, I too visited yesterday and was delighted to see the kids and parents frolicking around. And the big screen showing the tennis was brilliant.”
Dom Hwrites: “I saw a little kid pulling out the reeds and the parents were just pointing to him and laughing about it! Then saw another kid try to do it and the mum stopped him and explained to him why he shouldn’t. Unfortunately some parents need educating more than the kids do.”
Paul N asks: “What were they thinking? In 12 months it’ll be ruined!”
Lou J retorts: “Have some respect for Tudor. He helped save Plymouth Music Zone, was the only councillor to attend meetings supporting our grassroots venues when The Junction was under threat, and even stayed to watch the bands. He backed The Box, Theatre Royal, helped bring the Gormans to the city, and turned a tired, scruffy space into somewhere people actually want to spend time. Local bands, performers, markets, families, kids playing in the fountains. It’s exactly what the city needed.
“Have you even been? Seen the live music, dancing, mountain bike displays, or the continental market? Seen the kids laughing and people enjoying themselves? Why would it need twenty four hour security when it’s covered by CCTV and already maintained by the same company that’s kept it spotless throughout the build?”
Cathy E thinks: “It’s absolutely lovely, so great to see so many adults and children enjoying it. People were sat having picnics and enjoying the outdoors and it’s certainly a boost to local shops and food outlets. Also great to see a lovely lady there with her godson who was replanting the reeds that had been uprooted, thus encouraging other children to do the same. Wonderful to see a dragonfly already investigating the water.”
Melissa S is not so sure: “As beautiful as it is, when I first saw it my brain went right back to the 90’s and memories of going in town to see bubbles and god knows what floating in the water. It’s lovely to have but not everyone appreciates it, and they then ruin it for everyone else.”
Simon W agrees: “It’s very sad that British people have to be reminded how to behave. I’ve just come back from Sweden, not a bit of rubbish floating around anywhere. They all seem to be able to put stuff in the bin.”
TonF replies: “You could say the same about any park, square, or public space. Everything is new once. The real test is whether it’s looked after, and there’s already a maintenance contract in place. I’d rather judge it on what actually happens than assume it’ll end up covered in algae or taken over by seagulls. Right now it’s clean, busy, and full of people enjoying it. Let’s hope it stays that way.”
Micelle R writes: “We went yesterday and the children loved it. With so many people using it, regular maintenance is inevitable. The street cleaning teams already in the city centre could easily help keep it clean and running properly. Children are always going to put bark, stones, and sand in the water. That’s just part of how they play, so it simply needs routine clearing.”
Linda T retorts: “You’re having a laugh with the water. We had a beautiful water feature outside the civic centre. The council didn’t look after it and then after years of being there looking fabulous, it just got neglected and then filled in. See how long this lasts.”
Plymouth Live readers, have you visited the new Armada Way yet? Has it lived up to your expectations, or is there anything you’d change? We’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences in the comments.
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