Permission being sought for Phase 2 of the successful waterfront regeneration project

A planning application to regenerate the remaining section of the historic Factory Cooperage building at Plymouth's Royal William Yard has been submitted. This second phase of development would create 24 new luxury townhouses and complete the transformation of the Grade I listed building, following the successful completion of its first phase over the last two years.

The planning application represents the next chapter in Urban Splash’s ongoing regeneration of Royal William Yard. Urban Splash will partner with South West developer, Poppy Developments, to deliver the scheme and it will build on the success of Phase 1.

Completing the vision

The development comes as Real Ideas transitions its Ocean Studios space from Factory Cooperage to Devonport Guildhall, part of a strategic move to centralise its creative offering in Devonport. This relocation creates the opportunity to reimagine the use of the building and convert this into residential space.

The proposed Phase 2 development aligns with Royal William Yard's vision, balancing residential accommodation with the destination's thriving retail, dining and cultural offerings. The Yard has continued to evolve during its 200th anniversary year, with the recent opening of Arcade providing six new retail and leisure premises, and the new car park expansion project well underway.

Tom Lowry, Urban Splash’s Development Manager for Royal William Yard, said: “Poppy Developments has established itself as a trusted partner within the Yard community. Their expertise in sensitively converting these historic buildings, combined with their understanding of what buyers are looking for, makes them the ideal developer to complete this important project.”

New waterfront homes

The proposed bespoke 2, 3 and 4 bedroom townhouses will complement the existing Phase 1 properties, creating a cohesive residential community within one of Plymouth's most prestigious waterfront locations, Factory Cooperage.

Uptake for the homes in Phase 1 has been positive, with just five properties left to be sold. The townhouses would feature the same premium specifications and thoughtful design as Phase 1, with generous proportions across multiple floors and outdoor spaces designed to maximise the breathtaking maritime setting.

Each property would blend contemporary comfort with the rich heritage of this iconic location, maintaining the exacting standards that have made Royal William Yard synonymous with quality living.

Regeneration milestone

Factory Cooperage represents one of the final major buildings to be transformed within Royal William Yard's waterfront community. The heritage site, which boasts the largest collection of Grade I listed military buildings in Europe, has undergone significant transformation since Urban Splash began its regeneration work 20 years ago.

The planning application submission marks another significant milestone in Royal William Yard's evolution as a sustainable, long-term community where people can live, work and visit one of the UK's most spectacular waterfront settings.