Penzance Harbour’s £3 Million Makeover: To Boost Marine Industry Unveiled

Residents, businesses, and organisations in Penzance are eagerly anticipating the unveiling of ambitious plans aimed at modernising and supercharging Penzance Harbour’s efficiency.

A Drop-In Exhibition for a Brighter Tomorrow

Cornwall Council’s Harbour team, in collaboration with the Penzance Town Deal Board, is set to host a drop-in exhibition on Thursday, January 18, between 1pm and 6pm at Penzance Sailing Club, Albert Pier, TR18 2LL.

During the exhibition there will be an opportunity to view the latest plans and meet the Harbour team and project partners.

A £3 Million Boost for Transformation

Thanks to a £3 million injection from the Government’s Town Deal Fund, Penzance Harbour is about to undergo a remarkable transformation as part of a decade-long management plan.

This investment, which needs to be spent by March 2026, will enable:

• The renovation and repurposing of the existing shed on West Quay to improve freight handling and access for road users between The Quay and Battery Road. This will mean heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) will no longer have to park on the main road, reducing traffic congestion and pollution in the area.
• New engineering workshops for the engineering facility Penwith Marine Services (PMS), allowing an increase in their facilities including a larger and more stocked chandlery. Additional berth space will allow more flexibility between fish landings and engineering works for commercial and leisure vessels.
• A new fully accessible pontoon to cater for the growing demand from cruise ships and visiting crafts. Increased visitors by boat will boost the local economy and the harbour’s sustainability.
• New boat lift crane and an eco-friendly marine wash bay facility to improve options for local boat owners and visitors, as well as the commercial sector.
• Enhancement of the public spaces to improve safety of walking and cycling routes.
• Improvements of the harbour facilities.

Penzance Harbour offers 150 tidal moorings as well as a wet dock for leisure vessels and visiting yachts and is a gateway to the freight and passenger service to the Isles of Scilly. In the last year, Penzance Harbour has also seen the revival of local commercial fishing.

Exciting Developments on the Horizon

The comprehensive renovation of West Quay’s existing shed, new engineering workshops, a fully accessible pontoon for cruise ships, boat lift crane, and eco-friendly marine wash bay facility are among the exciting developments on the horizon.

More Space, Less Congestion, and a Thriving Economy

The project will bring significant improvements to the area, including the reduction of traffic congestion and pollution, as heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) will no longer need to park on the main road. It will also provide additional space for Penwith Marine Services (PMS) and enhance the public spaces, improving safety for pedestrians and cyclists.

A Hub of Activity

Penzance Harbour, a key gateway to the Isles of Scilly, is set to become a bustling hub for leisure vessels, yachts, and commercial activities, including a revival of local commercial fishing.

Turning Vision into Reality

James Broughton, Penzance Harbourmaster, expressed his excitement, highlighting the positive impact on accessibility, sustainability, and efficiency. The investment will address issues like road congestion and accidents on Quay Road.

A Vital Investment for a Promising Future

Martin Tucker, Chair of the Penzance Town Deal Board, emphasised the transformation’s importance, making Penzance Harbour a modern, sustainable hub for the marine and engineering sectors, creating well-paid, highly-skilled permanent jobs.

A Dream Becoming a Reality

Louis Gardner, Cornwall Council cabinet portfolio holder for economy, praised the Town Deal funding, ensuring long-lasting and wide-ranging benefits for the town. He encouraged everyone to attend the exhibition to learn more about this exciting project.

A Part of a Bigger Picture

This project is one of seven regeneration initiatives under the £21.5 million Penzance Town Deal program, managed by Cornwall Harbours Board in agreement with Cornwall Council following a new Harbour Revision Order made in 2023.

Penzance Harbour’s transformation promises a brighter future, fostering economic growth and environmental sustainability while propelling Cornwall’s marine industry to new heights.