Work is well underway on a major restoration project at The Gardeners' House Penzance.

It is being led by local heritage building contractor Jewell Construction Limited.

It aims to renew the long-neglected gardeners' house in the heart of Morrab Gardens.

The project is not only at mere maintenance of the property but to celebrate the natural environment and create a record of the horticulture and botany of West Cornwall.

The House, after renovation, is set to become a significant community centre, supporting the local populace's mental and physical wellbeing through activities like wellbeing workshops, green community projects, and a sensory garden.

Project coordinator for The Gardeners’ House, Miki Ashton, said: "We are thrilled to announce that Jewell has joined our team at the Gardeners' House.

"Their expertise and sensitivity in heritage restoration were precisely what we sought during the contracting process."

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A project that was a challenging endeavour, requiring sensitivity and careful attention due to limited access and the consideration of existing structures.

Martin Tucker, chairman of the Penzance Town Deal Board, described the start of work as a "key milestone" for not only the project but the overall Town Deal programme in Penzance.

Mr Tucker said: "This funding is supporting local companies, bringing new life to dilapidated community assets, and helping local organisations grow and flourish."

Co-owner of Jewell Construction Limited, Steve Jewell, highlighted the awardees' delight at having won the contract to work on such a project rich in history, adding: "We’re keen to bring our expertise to the table in bringing old buildings back to life."

The project is financed by The National Lottery Heritage Fund and the Penzance Town Deal fund.

It will also be a home to a unique 'living archive' of documents that shed light on the last two centuries of West Cornwall’s natural heritage.

With community art projects, partnership with local community groups, and the creation of the tranquil sensory garden enabled by funding from the Tanner Phoenix Trust, the project indicates a leap towards environmental conservation and community wellbeing.