Prime Minister Boris Johnson has announced a multi-million-pound investment into Truro. The £23.6m coming to Cornwall will boost the local economy, create jobs and improve local skills while helping the county to build back better from the pandemic.
It has long been hoped that with the right investment, Truro could become a modern economic, cultural and green capital. With the latest announcement, we can hope to see new life breathed into the city by 2030!
Truro will be converted into a Connected River City, with its waterfront bursting with spaces for new businesses. Some of the city’s historic buildings will be given a new purpose by their transformation into thriving businesses.
To build on Truro’s national reputation as a city of bloom, there will be a ‘go-to destination in Boscawen Park including a new Winter garden. There will also be vibrant green areas in the city for events, promenades and even new ferry terminals with berthing facilities and pontoons.
£3.75m has already been granted to Truro for the ongoing redevelopment of the Hall for Cornwall Theatre. This investment alone looks set to book tourism and leisure opportunities in the City.
These investments into Truro are all part of the Government’s Towns Fund and are part of comprehensive action by the Government to level up all areas of the country, including through the $34.8 billion Levelling Up Fund, the £220 million Community Renewal Fund and the £830 million Future High Streets Fund.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson said:
“We are determined to level up across the entire country, and the Deal we’re announcing for Truro will help to unleash its tremendous potential.
“Through a range of innovative projects including greener transport links and the restoration and renewal of spaces in the city centre, we will be able to rejuvenate the local economy, support businesses, boost connectivity and create new jobs.”
The Government also announced a Welcome Back Fund worth £56m. This fund has been made available to help high streets and seaside towns prepare for a safe return of shoppers and tourists as the national coronavirus restrictions ease.
With our part of the country being renowned for its tourism, this is more welcome news as we hope to see businesses enjoy successful reopenings across Cornwall.
Mark Duddridge, Chair at Cornwall Isles of Scillies LEP said:
“The award of £23.6 million for Truro, as the country begins to emerge from the restrictions of lockdown is a fantastic boost for Cornwall and the City. The environmentally sensitive development of the town will create welcome employment and will bring a new vibrancy to many areas of Truro.
“This investment follows on from the redevelopment of the Hall for Cornwall, another project supported by the LEP, which together will reinforce Truro’s position as a centre for our creative industries.”