NEARLY £1.8-million has been invested into a sports, play and recreation space for Camborne, which is now just one step away from reality as residents are being asked to give their support to the second and final planning application for the scheme.

If approved, Park Gerry, formerly Park Road playing fields, will be re-invented with an accessible state-of-the-art skate park, sports pitches, pavilion and performance area nestling in a re-wilded and newly landscaped space for people of all ages and interests to enjoy.

The scheme is part of the £23.7-million Town Deal regeneration fund for Camborne. Following the signing of the grant funding agreement between Cornwall Council and Camborne Town Council, the project works are expected to start this summer, subject to approval by the local planning authority.

Park Gerry proposal in Camborne
State-of-the-art skate park area (Submitted)

Mayor of Camborne, Cllr James Ball said: “We have listened carefully to what people want for their green space. The result is a magnificent and versatile landscape. From football fanatics and of course skateboarders, to artists and those seeking some peace and tranquillity, everyone will be able to find a space in which they belong at Park Gerry.”

Val Dalley, chair of the Camborne Town Deal Board, added: “Planning Park Gerry’s transformation has truly been a community effort for the enjoyment of residents for many years to come. I am particularly happy with plans for enhanced access to the park, with better cycling and pedestrian access, more parking, accessible pathways and facilities.”

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View of the garden space (Submitted)

Louis Gardner, Cornwall Council cabinet portfolio holder for economy, said: “Our role is to support the towns to realise their ambitions for their communities and it’s great to see the plans for Park Gerry have reached this significant milestone.”

In 2021 the government announced £23.7-million in Town Deal funding for Camborne, the largest amount in Cornwall, and Park Gerry is one of 11 projects chosen by the community to help transform the town and provide a better future for its residents.

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A vision of how the sports pitches would look (Submitted)

Residents have until Friday, August 28, to give their views on the planning application. Visit www.cornwall.gov.uk/planning and search reference PA24/03522.