Prime Minister Boris Johnson visited Truro on 7 April to announce the £23.6 million Deal for Truro will help transform Cornwall’s capital into a Connected River City and support its vision of becoming a modern economic, cultural and green capital for its residents and the wider community by 2030.

The Deal will breathe new life into Truro’s waterfront by creating new spaces for business, vibrant and green event areas, promenades and new ferry terminals with berthing facilities and pontoons.

The investment will also boost its cultural and tourism offer by transforming some of its historic buildings into thriving businesses. The creation of a ‘go to destination’ in Boscawen Park will include a new ‘winter garden’ to build on Truro’s national reputation as a city of bloom.

Green and sustainable travel are at the heart of these plans, connecting key locations and attractions with accessible walking and cycling routes including a proposed new bridge between areas currently isolated from each other. The funding will also help convert some of Truro’s unused buildings into much-needed new homes.

Carole Theobald, chair of Truro Towns Fund Board, said: “We’re absolutely over the moon to have secured this level of funding for Truro and that the Prime Minister has recognised the potential of our city.

“It was a tremendous amount of work to develop our Town Investment Plan, led by a board of volunteers and supported by a small team. I’m so proud to have been part of this bid, which will pave the way for projects set to transform Truro’s future.”

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.”

Today’s investment is the 53rd deal to be announced from the Towns Fund and is part of comprehensive action by the government.

Communities Secretary Robert Jenrick said: “This government is levelling up towns and cities across the country by building stronger and more resilient local economies, boosting prosperity and opportunity in our communities, and helping them build back better from the pandemic.

“This Deal is great news for Truro and the county. By revitalising the waterfront, breathing new life into unused historic buildings and investing in new cultural and tourist attractions, it will make a huge difference to the local economy and create much needed jobs and homes.”

Member of Parliament for Truro and Truro Town Deal board member Cherilyn Mackrory said: “I am delighted to have worked with the Truro Town Team and partners, including Cornwall Council, to bring this successful bid forward and it is brilliant to see the Prime Minister visit Truro today to see the plans for himself and provide his own support for them.

“Proof again that Cornwall is at the heart of the Government’s levelling up agenda and I look forward to continuing to work with all concerned to make these plans for our great city a reality.”