WORK has officially begun on the long-anticipated Camborne Town Deal project to renovate The Basset School and White House, now officially named as Awenva (place of inspiration in Kernewek).

Beloved historic buildings will soon be transformed into a dynamic community hub, led by Camborne Town Council and designed to serve the local community, businesses, and organisations.

Once completed, the multi-functional space will offer services like Camborne’s library service, cultural activities, and social initiatives – as well as ad hoc room hire, a community café, wellbeing hub, training and event spaces, and activity areas catering to people of all ages and backgrounds.

The idea for the transformation of The Basset School and White House was born from extensive community engagement, with local residents, businesses, and stakeholders playing a crucial role in shaping the project.

Their input has helped to ensure that Awenva will reflect the diverse needs of the people it is designed to serve. Now work has started, Camborne Town Council will launch a survey in April to get further feedback.

Councillor James Ball, mayor of Camborne, said: “This is a truly transformative moment for our community. The former Basset School holds a special place in the hearts of many, and we are proud to be restoring and repurposing it into a space that will foster connection, creativity, and opportunity.

“Our goal is to create a welcoming hub where people can gather, learn new skills, collaborate on projects, and access vital services that support personal and professional growth."

The enabling works phase is being carried out by Classic Builders. Carefully designed to preserve the character and historical significance of the original school buildings, the renovation will include energy-efficient systems and improved accessibility measures to ensure Awenva is both practical and sustainable.

Lewis Tolputt, business development manager at Classic Builders, said: “We’re incredibly proud to be appointed to deliver these important works. We understand the important role this project will play from both a social and economic perspective for the town. Camborne is a special place for us.

“Not only have we delivered works at both the Police Station and the Passmore Edwards Building, but a large number of our staff come from the area. As a local it’s great see this project underway. In the 80s my wife went to nursery at the Basset Centre and in the early 2000s I worked on the building as a Project Manager.

“Our team’s local connection and vast experience of working on some of the most iconic historic buildings in the county make us the perfect fit for delivering this important scheme.”

Once operational, Awenva is expected to provide a significant boost to the local economy, creating employment opportunities, and attracting visitors into the area. It will also serve as a focal point for community-led initiatives - from youth support and adult learning to cultural and wellness events.

Val Dalley, chair of the Town Deal Board, said: “This project is more than just a renovation – it’s about bringing people together, preserving our heritage, and creating new opportunities for everyone in our community. We can’t wait to see Awenva open its doors and become a place where people can connect, collaborate, and thrive.”

Louis Gardner, portfolio holder for economy at Cornwall Council, added: “The evolution of Awenva, shaped by local people from much loved buildings, is a fantastic example of how Town Deal funding can transform communities. It is set to be a stunning venue with first class spaces and facilities, and I look forward to seeing it enjoyed by all.”

As construction progresses, Camborne Town Council will provide regular updates and opportunities for residents to get involved. Open days, community workshops, and volunteer opportunities will be announced in months to come, allowing people to contribute ideas and take part in shaping the final stages of Awenva’s development.

For more information, visit Camborne Town Council’s Facebook page.