Truro Transforming Empty Or Dilapidated Properties Into New Sustainable Places

In a significant stride towards rejuvenating the heart of Truro, plans to transform derelict properties into vibrant living and working spaces in the city centre have been officially launched. The “New Life for City Buildings” project, funded through the Truro Town Deal, spearheaded by Truro City Council, aims to revitalise the city by renovating empty spaces above shops and on the city’s outskirts.

Mayor Carol Swain Excited About Transformation

Mayor Carol Swain expressed her enthusiasm for the project, stating, “This is an incredibly exciting project which will see new life breathed into our city centre.” While Truro boasts historic buildings and stunning Georgian and Victorian architecture, many upper stories remain vacant and neglected, along with several commercial properties on the city’s periphery in need of revitalisation.

A Boost for the Local Economy

Truro secured a significant share of the £3.6 billion Town Deal funding from the UK Government, receiving £23.6 million to enhance the city’s infrastructure and stimulate the local economy. Of the seven approved projects, the “New Life for City Buildings” project will receive £3.3 million over the next two years to support its endeavours.

Truro Regeneration Company CIC to Lead the Way

Recognising the importance of expertise in property, business, and finance, Truro City Council established the Truro Regeneration Company CIC, which will play a pivotal role in efficiently delivering the project. The company, wholly owned by the City Council, will assess applications and distribute grants to property owners and landlords looking to transform upper floors into high-quality living spaces.

Sustainable and Eco-friendly Transformation

Rupert Hume-Kendall, Chair of the Truro Regeneration Company CIC (TRC), emphasised the project’s goal: “The aim of the program is to create sustainable and eco-friendly residential and office accommodation and inject vibrancy into Truro by refurbishing and repurposing dilapidated or empty properties.”

Unlocking Truro’s Potential

Truro, home to around 1,600 private sector businesses, is brimming with potential. Currently, approximately 25,000 m2 of space in the city centre lies vacant or unused. This project aims to make creative use of this space, safeguard community assets, enhance energy efficiency, future-proof buildings, and provide employment and apprenticeship opportunities within the construction industry.

Express Your Interest and Be Part of the Renaissance

Details of the grant scheme and application process are being finalised, with an invitation for property owners and landlords to submit Expressions of Interest for grant support expected later this month. Landlords and property owners will be required to contribute a minimum of 50% of the renovation costs and oversee the construction process.

A Thriving Truro on the Horizon

Mayor Carol Swain summarised the project’s potential impact, stating, “The New Life for City Buildings project provides a fantastic opportunity to create a thriving city centre by bringing new life to our historic buildings and encouraging more people into our Great Little City.”

Truro City Council’s Multiple Endeavors

In addition to leading the “New Life for City Buildings” project, Truro City Council is also in the process of developing the “Boscawen Sport and Recreation Hub Town Deal” project, which aims to provide improved indoor and outdoor sports and leisure facilities at Boscawen Park.