The keys to the honesty box for a car park in St Just in Roseland have been handed over to members of the Parochial Church Council as part of a local devolution deal with Cornwall Council.

Local discussions had been taking place regarding the future of the car park, which had been owned and managed by Cornwall Council. It’s a small local car park that mainly serves visitors to the church as well as local visitors who use it as a start point for local walks.

Now the ownership of the car park has been transferred from Cornwall Council, it will now be managed and maintained by the Parochial Church Council (PCC). This means all money collected in the honesty box will be used locally and pay for the upkeep of the car park.

Local Cornwall Councillor for Roseland, Julian German, said: “I am delighted that another Cornwall Council asset on the Roseland has been transferred. Our communities work hard to make a positive difference and the devolution of car parks, toilets and play space to local organisations means that provision can be more responsive to local needs. I know St Just Parochial Church Council will ensure that the car park will work for the church, residents and visitors alike.”

The Rev Ken Boullier, of the PCC, added: "St Just in Roseland Church Council are delighted that Cornwall Council have, very kindly, handed over this car park to us. This will greatly assist our plans to improve the care and welcome we extend to visitors to this lovely church and heritage gardens."

As well as having powers devolved to Cornwall from London, Cornwall Council is devolving services and assets to local councils, groups and organisations within Cornwall. Several assets and services have been successfully devolved to town and parish councils and community organisations and this car park is one of the latest deals to be completed.

Other assets that have been devolved with in the last year include Boscawen Park to Truro City Council and Redruth Community Centre to Redruth Town Council. If your community is interested in finding out about devolution in Cornwall, more information can be found at cornwall.gov.uk/devolution.