Penzance has revealed what it plans to do with half a million pounds it has been gifted.

Penzance Town Deal Board has announced five projects it hopes will benefit the communities across the region of Penzance and Newlyn.

It is after the area was given £500,000 from the government as it works together on a larger bid for up to £25 million pounds of funding from the Government’s Towns Fund Deal.

The idea is that this initial money will help provide jobs and improve the area for the people who live, work and visit there.

The stipulations for the funding were that the money needed to be spent and the project completed no later than March 2021.

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Working with other organisations such as Cornwall Council and Cormac, the board was able to create put together a list of projects to be submitted back to the government for approval. These are:

  • Bike shelters - Several bike shelters will be placed throughout the town to provide non-car parking options.
  • Shop mobility - As pedestrianisation increases in the town, the board is considering those with access concerns by investiing im a variety of scooters to support those in need.
  • Prom works - Development continues on the Prom and the town board was able to support funding for parts of the overall plan that were unable to make it through the budget. This includes increased access to the beach as well as seating areas.
  • Acorn Theatre - The historic building of cultural significance needs upgrading in order to maintain its performance space and be a part of the night-time economy.
  • Outdoor gym – The board is working to revitalise Newlyn through funding a new state of the art outdoor gym area for the public.

Chair of trustees at The Acorn, Paul Mullin, said: “This is fantastic news for the Acorn and for everyone who comes here to perform, enjoy performances, take classes or volunteer.

“The theatre was last upgraded over 20 years ago and this, alongside the wonderful generosity of our friends and supporters, will go a long way to securing the venue’s future for the next generation.

“The Acorn also helps generate an estimated £175,000 a year spending in other businesses in the night-time economy, so it's good news for Penzance too.”

The board now continues to work on its Investment Plan for the £25 million bid.

Emmie Kell, Penzance board member and chief executive of Cornwall Museum Partnerships, said: “A strong cultural infrastructure is an important element of resilient towns and makes a contribution to people’s enjoyment and wellbeing.

“Cornwall’s rich creative offer delivers real social and economic impacts and investment in the Acorn will help to keep Penzance town centre alive whilst boosting the local economy.

“Put simply, culture helps make communities a better place to live, work and visit.”

For more information on what is happening with the Investment Plan, to help the board decide what projects make the cut, LovePenzance on the various social media platforms or visit www.lovepenzance.co.uk/pz-town-deal