A planning application for one of the biggest town council projects in the country has been submitted.

Camborne Town Council has secured more than £14-million in funding to transform two redundant listed buildings close to the town centre into a multi-purpose community hub.

As the flagship project of the Camborne Town Deal investment plan, restoration of the Basset Centre and White House in Basset Road will create space for arts, education, cultural and entertainment initiatives – all of which are designed to appeal to a broad range of age groups and interests.

Plans include a modern, spacious library, a dedicated area for young people, heritage exhibits and a performance and event facility.

There will also be an outdoor walled garden, a stunning glass atrium, the town’s first changing spaces toilet and accessible parking. Renewable and low carbon materials will be used as much as possible throughout.

Town Deal funding for the project amounts to more than £11-million and Cornwall Council has put in just over £3.2-million.

Mayor of Camborne, Councillor James Ball, said: “Our community’s wishes and needs have been our first consideration when planning this hub – from design through to completion.

“That’s why we’ll be holding focus groups to fine tune the details in the months to come and why we’re encouraging people to look at our plans on the Cornwall Council planning portal and let us know what they think.

“We’re proud and excited to breathe new life into these community assets and bring this multi-million-pound enterprise forward for Camborne.

“It’s a very big piece of work for us and we’re confident it will make a real difference.”

Eleven projects were given government approval for Town Deal funding of £23.7-million – the highest amount in Cornwall.

Commenting on the plans Val Dalley, the chair of the Camborne Town Deal Board, said: “Increasing costs have meant modifying our original plan for the Basset Centre by replacing the dedicated theatre with a more flexible events space for broader community use.

“The hub’s long-term sustainability has always been a major consideration and, to that end, prioritising local residents’ requirements is essential.

“We’re very pleased with the designs submitted and look forward to construction beginning in early 2025.”

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 the Basset Centre have reached this significant milestone. 

“There is a lot of work going on behind the scenes in Camborne to lay the foundations for projects which will benefit residents for many years to come.”

For more information on the plans visit cambornetowndeal.com