Regeneration projects to boost the local economy and opportunities for residents in Camborne, Penzance, St Ives and Truro are set to become a reality following successful bids to the Government’s Town Deal fund.
It is hoped the plans, developed by local communities to bring about lasting change, will help get projects to transform high streets, improve transport and digital connectivity, and develop skills and culture off the ground.
The four areas were invited by the Government in September 2019 to each form a Town Deal board to bid for up to £25m each from the Town Deal fund.
Working with Cornwall Council and the Cornwall Local Enterprise Partnership, the boards developed ambitious, yet realistic Town Investment Plans to support their bids.
The Town Deal boards will receive:
• Camborne - £23.7m
• Penzance - £21.5m
• St Ives - £19.9m
• Truro - £23.6m (funding announced in April 2021)
As announced last month, Penzance will also receive a further £10.4m from the Government’s Future High Streets Fund to regenerate the high street, by bringing back vacant retail units into use, providing town-wide WiFi and delivering new homes and workspace.
Read Next:
Cornwall Council cabinet portfolio holder for the economy Stephen Rushworth said: "This is fantastic news and recognition of the determination and hard work of these local communities to secure a more prosperous future for their residents and businesses.
"Their visions are a step closer to becoming a reality and I look forward to seeing how they progress."
Martin Tucker, Chair of Penzance Town Deal Board said: "I am delighted with the news that we have been awarded £21.5m to support a range of capital projects that will develop opportunities to stimulate the local economies in both Penzance and Newlyn.
"Combined with the recent announcement of the High Street Fund these are very exciting times for the town and the Board will now commit itself to working with Cornwall Council and other organisations in delivering the various projects to the highest of standards."
Val Dalley, vice chair and acting chair of Camborne Town Deal Board said: "Absolutely fantastic news of £23.7 million for Camborne.
"It is a real opportunity for the town and community, bringing back a sense of pride in where we live.
"There is a focus on young people, who are the future of our town with opportunities within the various projects to raise their aspirations in what they can achieve."
Sarah Stevens, chair of St Ives Town Deal Board said: "What fantastic news for St Ives! Thank you to everyone that helped make this happen especially the local residents, town and Cornwall Council and MP Derek Thomas.
"A special thanks to St Ives Town Deal directors who have volunteered their time and shown passion and commitment which has made this possible."
Read Next:
Carole Theobald, chair of Truro Towns Fund Board, said: "What wonderful news.
"Congratulations to everyone who helped put together the Town Investment Plans for Camborne, St Ives and Penzance.
"All the hard work put in in the last year from members our community, the volunteers on the Town Boards, the Town Council and Cornwall Council is being rewarded through this successful outcome.
West Cornwall and St Ives MP, Derek Thomas said: “This latest Town Deal funding announcement will enable a massive transformation of both Penzance and St Ives town centres, boost economic growth and help speed up the recovery of our local businesses.
"The projects that have been proposed will help grow our economy, create skilled jobs for residents and expand our offer in areas of digital technology, creative industries and the marine sector. "Combined with the £10.4m High Street Fund announced for Penzance earlier this year, the additional £41 million secured through the Town Funds will help realise those ambitious and transformational plans set out for both Penzance and St Ives."
Camborne and Redruth MP, George Eustice, said: "The success of Camborne’s Towns Fund Bid is a significant step forward in the regeneration of the town.
"This £23.7 million represents an exciting opportunity in the revitalisation of Camborne."
Member of Parliament for Truro, Cherilyn Mackrory said: "I am delighted to have worked with the Truro Town Team and partners, including Cornwall Council, to bring this successful bid forward, and its success is another key legacy of Cornwall’s hosting of the G7."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel