Funding Secured for Major Parish Improvements in Sennen This Autumn

Sennen Parish Council has announced an exciting series of improvements for the area, set to take place this autumn and winter 2024.

Community Levelling Up Funds Approved

After a year of dedicated work, Sennen Parish Council has successfully secured Community Levelling Up Funds for a significant Parish Improvement Project. The funding bid, submitted in January 2024, aims to address several local issues, including poor access to the Cove, limited community and visitor information points, inadequate facilities for public transport users, and the need to enhance the biodiversity of Sennen’s public spaces.

The council’s efforts have paid off, with Cornwall Council agreeing to install three bus shelters along the A30 and the Cornwall Levelling Up Fund supporting the remaining elements of the project. Councillors are now moving ahead with the implementation, eager to see the positive impact these upgrades will bring.

Improved Public Transport Facilities

One of the standout features of the project is the installation of three new bus shelters along the A30, scheduled for October. These shelters, designed with school children and public transport users in mind, will be enclosed and feature glass panels for visibility and a ‘living sedum roof’ planted with up to 16 varieties of low-maintenance plants. The council hopes these shelters will provide better protection from the Cornish weather, especially during the winter months.

Enhanced Accessibility and Pathway Upgrades

The improvement works include upgrades to Stonechair Lane, enhancing walking and wheelchair access to the Cove. Planned for October, this will involve drainage improvements and path resurfacing. Access to properties will remain possible during the works, though the path itself will be closed. Weed spraying with herbicide is scheduled for the week of 23rd September, weather permitting.

New Visitor Information and Community Facilities

In November, the project will see the installation of new signage panels directing visitors to local footpaths and off-road access to the Cove. The signs will also provide information about the area’s flora, fauna, and history. Additionally, a new, free-to-use telescope, including a scope for wheelchair users, will be installed on the sea front, offering views of the lifeboat, scenery, and local wildlife.

Parish noticeboards will also be set up at both the top of the hill and down in the Cove, providing residents and visitors with up-to-date information on council discussions, local community news, and events.

Community Involvement in Conservation Efforts

The project includes conservation work along the cycle way running through the village centre. The council will collaborate with Cornwall Rural Enterprise and Skills Trust (CREST) to repair and restore the Cornish hedge, removing invasive plants and rebuilding damaged sections. Local residents will be invited to participate in replanting the wall with low-maintenance, biodiverse plants, promoting community pride and involvement.

The project began earlier this year with hedge-working days organised by Sennen Nature Action Group (SNAG). The council hopes even more residents will get involved as the work continues.

Boosting Biodiversity and Community Engagement

To further enhance local biodiversity, wildflower and pollinator-friendly areas will be created around the new bus shelter on the Mayon verge and in parts of the Parish Council-maintained cemetery. Tree planting and nature information boards will be added, with the council hoping to involve school children and the wider community in maintaining these spaces.

Get Involved

Residents are encouraged to participate in the upcoming improvements. A working group of all Sennen Parish Councillors is leading the project. You can find their contact details on the Parish Council website or reach out to the Parish Clerk via email at clerk@sennen-pc.gov.uk.

The next SNAG working day is scheduled for 28th September, with volunteers meeting at 10am outside Sennen School. Tools, gloves, and refreshments will be provided. Children should be accompanied by an adult, and everyone is advised to dress for the weather.