After years of campaigning and negotiation, visitors to Falmouth's town centre can now enjoy the views across the Carrick Roads from the comfort of new benches thanks to the town council.

Seven locally made wrought-iron benches have been installed along the front of Church Street car park following substantial strengthening and maintenance of the historic 75m waterfront wall that supports the car park. A new footpath and the re-lining of the parking bays have also contributed to the improved dynamic of car park.

“The town’s long-held ambition to transform Church Street car park, which has one of the most magnificent views across the world’s third deepest natural harbour, into an area that people can enjoy and not just turn their backs on as they park their vehicles is a step closer,” said mayor Grenville Chappel. “It has taken a while and there have been a number of hurdles to overcome, but by working in partnership with CORMAC, Cornwall Council and local blacksmith, Kevin Gerry, we have begun the process of making so much more of our maritime environment."

Town manager Richard Gates added: “It is the norm across the country for councils to be cutting back on local services not going out of their way to provide them and once again, Falmouth is an exception to the rule.

“Even though budgets are tight, our councillors found a way of finding the funding for these seven, locally produced benches along our water frontage, which are already making a positive difference to people’s experience of the town. We thank everyone involved in making this happen.”

Councillor Candy Atherton added: "One of the asks that local people made last year in the Neighbourhood Plan consultation was for more places to sit and enjoy our fantastic harbour vista. "As the local Cornwall councillor, I was pleased that everyone worked together to realise this ambition. I am sure that locals and visitors alike will enjoy the view for many years to come.”