Work on the long-awaited scheme to remove the derelict paddle steamer Compton Castle from Lemon Quay is due to begin this week, with leading specialist company Gilpin Demolition appointed to carry out the complex operation.
The removal of the boat marks a major milestone in the exciting plans being delivered by Truro Town Deal, Cornwall Harbours Authority and Cornwall Council to transform the Lemon Quay areas of the city and improve access to the waterside edge at Town Quay.
With the removal of the former paddle steamer essential to enable work to begin on the Town Quay project, last year members of the Truro Town Deal and Cornwall Harbours Board took the decision to organise and fund the operation when the boat’s owner failed to take action.
The unstable condition of the former paddle steamer means the boat has to be broken up so that it can be removed safely from its berth. The pieces will be placed in containers and then transported by lorry to a local facility.
One of seven projects being funded through the Truro Town Deal programme, the plans for Truro Harbour and Lemon Quay involve redeveloping the quay to connect the city with the river and create a high quality vibrant, attractive and green public space that will encourage more people to visit and spend more time in the city centre and bring an economic boost to businesses.
As well as the plans to improve and extend Lemon Quay, there are a number of other separate schemes with the overall project. These include the new Lighterage Quay bridge, a waterside path and day boat pontoon, ramped access from Garras wharf car park to Morlaix Avenue, improved access onto Town Quay from Morlaix Avenue, renovating the harbour office and improved use of benches, street furniture and lighting with newly planted trees and landscaping, capital dredging and public realm improvements.
The process to remove the Compton Castle is currently expected to begin on Wednesday, 25 June and will take up to four weeks to complete.
Alan Stanhope, Chair of Truro Town Deal Board, said: “The Compton Castle has become an unwelcome eyesore in a prominent part of our city centre. Removing this derelict and decaying boat will trigger a clean up and redevelopment of this important part of Truro, which marks where the city meets the river.
“This will make an immediate positive impact and supports our plans to transform Truro into a vibrant, attractive, and green public space that will draw more visitors and boost our local economy.”
Cllr Luke Rogers, Chair of Cornwall Harbours Board, said “ This is a hugely exciting moment for Truro. The removal of the Compton Castle clears the way for a once in a generation transformation of the Truro waterfront.
“We can now press ahead with ambitious plans to open up Town Quay and Lemon Quay, creating a vibrant, welcoming space that connects the city to the river like never before. These improvements will not only celebrate our rich maritime heritage but also bring lasting benefits to local people, businesses and visitors. We are proud to be working with the Town Deal Board to help deliver a brighter future for Truro.”
Cllr Tim Dwelly, Cornwall Council’s portfolio holder for Economic Regeneration and Investment, said: “The removal of this eyesore will make a real difference to the people who visit Lemon Quay, and will allow for work to begin to open up the waterside for residents and visitors to enjoy. This is exactly the sort of work the Town Deal funds should be used for, making a positive and material difference to people’s lives in the area.”
The last few years have seen a significant deterioration in the condition of the Compton Castle, which sank on its mooring in 2023. Despite some temporary repairs being made, the boat has remained empty, with efforts to find it a new role or home proving unsuccessful.
Truro Town Deal Board, in partnership with Cornwall Council, successfully bid for a Town Deal worth £23.6 million to support a range of projects that will contribute to the city’s regeneration and boost the local economy.
