What’s Happening in Camborne? Work Begins on Awenva Community Hub

Work has officially begun on Camborne’s major Town Deal project to transform The Basset School and White House into Awenva, a new multi-purpose community hub. The long-anticipated renovation, led by Camborne Town Council, will provide a space for community services, cultural activities, and local businesses.

A Historic Transformation

The project will see the beloved historic buildings repurposed into a dynamic centre offering a library service, community café, wellbeing hub, training spaces, and event facilities. Once complete, Awenva will cater to all ages and backgrounds, providing a hub for learning, creativity, and social engagement.

The transformation has been shaped by extensive community consultation, with local residents and businesses helping to influence the project. To continue this engagement, Camborne Town Council will launch a new survey in April to gather further feedback.

Mayor of Camborne James Ball called the project a “truly transformative moment,” adding:
“The former Basset School holds a special place in the hearts of many, and we are proud to be restoring and repurposing it into a space that will foster connection, creativity, and opportunity.”

Construction Underway

Local company Classic Builders has been appointed to carry out the renovation, with work carefully planned to preserve the historic character of the buildings while incorporating energy-efficient systems and improved accessibility.

Lewis Tolputt, Business Development Manager at Classic Builders, highlighted the company’s strong ties to Camborne, stating:
“Camborne is a special place for us. Not only have we delivered works at both the Police Station and the Passmore Edwards Building, but a large number of our staff come from the area. In the 80s my wife went to nursery at the Basset Centre and in the early 2000s I worked on the building as a Project Manager.”

Boosting Camborne’s Economy and Wellbeing

Once completed, Awenva is expected to provide a significant boost to the local economy, creating employment opportunities and attracting more visitors to the area. It will also become a central hub for community-led projects, from youth support and adult learning to cultural and wellness events.

Chair of the Town Deal Board Val Dalley said:
“This project is more than just a renovation – it’s about bringing people together, preserving our heritage, and creating new opportunities for everyone in our community.”

Cornwall Council’s Portfolio Holder for Economy, Louis Gardner, added:
“The evolution of Awenva, shaped by local people from much-loved buildings, is a fantastic example of how Town Deal funding can transform communities.”

Next Steps & Community Involvement

As the construction progresses, Camborne Town Council will provide regular updates, with open days, community workshops, and volunteer opportunities set to be announced in the coming months.

About Camborne’s Town Deal

Camborne was awarded £23.7 million in Town Deal funding in 2021 as part of a wider regeneration effort. The investment includes ten projects aimed at revitalising the town centre, improving accessibility, and creating multi-purpose spaces for work and community activities.