Pydar Dispatch, October 2023 issue
PLANNING APPROVAL GRANTED FOR FIRST PHASES OF PYDAR REGENERATION
8 June 2023
Plans to build new homes, a study centre for Falmouth University and student accommodation at the Pydar development in Truro, have been given the green light by planners.
Cornwall Council has approved the first of two Reserved Matters applications which provide more detail on the development and follows the granting of Outline Planning Consent for the whole of the site in November 2019.
Following a constructive planning process, working closely with the City Council and the local community, Treveth Development LLP’s proposal to transform the Pydar site into a vibrant and sustainable mixed-use development, on behalf of Cornwall Council, has received the green light. This approval reflects the public’s support for Pydar – with over 90% of local respondents supporting the scheme – as well as the positive endorsement for Pydar from Truro City Council in March 2023.
Pydar will provide much-needed housing, commercial, and leisure facilities, as well as public spaces, including a new town square, which will serve as the heart of the new community. These first two phases will provide 164 new dwellings (35% affordable provision) together with a new study centre for Falmouth University and 166 student bedrooms; all with the intention of adding to the vitality of Truro’s town centre. The scheme will also create a significant number of jobs and support the local economy.
Mayor of Truro, Carol Swain, said: "This is fantastic news for Truro and for Cornwall as a whole. The Pydar development will transform this neglected area of our city into a thriving community hub, providing new homes, jobs, and recreational opportunities. We are thrilled that the project has received approval and look forward to working with Treveth Development LLP to bring this vision to life."
Louis Gardner, Cornwall Council cabinet portfolio holder for economy, said: “The Pydar regeneration project has been a long time in the making, and we will continue to work with Treveth to ensure it meets the needs of our residents. This neighbourhood will bring significant benefits to the local community and support the city's growth and prosperity.”
Greg Slater, Head of Design, Decarbonisation & Environment for Treveth Development LLP, said: "We are delighted to have received approval for these Reserved Matters Applications for the Pydar development. Our team has worked closely with local stakeholders, Truro City Council and Cornwall Council to create a development that will be a catalyst for positive change in Truro. We are committed to delivering a sustainable and vibrant community that will provide new homes, jobs, and leisure facilities, as well as enhancing the local environment."
James Windsor, Director of Inner Circle Consulting, who advised Treveth Development LLP on the Pydar project, added: "The approval of the Reserved Matters Application for the Pydar project is a significant milestone in the project's progress. We are pleased that our collaborative approach with the City and local communities has resulted in a design that is sympathetic to the local environment while delivering much-needed housing and amenities. We look forward to continuing our work with Treveth Development LLP as the project progresses."
Alex Andone, Associate Director at PRP, who guided the designs for Phase 1A and 1B along with the wider masterplan, shared: “We are delighted that Pydar Phase 1A and 1B have been approved. A high quality, sustainable development in an inclusive, active and biodiverse public realm are the heart of the proposals. The former brownfield site has a direct connection to the city centre and will create an urban neighbourhood that celebrates Truro’s unique cultural and historic identity, while offering a new and exciting type of city living that will diversify the homes on offer.
The Pydar development will consist of over 300 high-quality and energy-efficient new homes, including affordable housing, 450 student beds alongside a new educational presence for Falmouth University and a range of ancillary retail, leisure, and office spaces. The new neighbourhood will also include a new hotel, which will help to support the local tourism industry. The public spaces within the development will be designed to encourage community engagement and provide opportunities for social interaction.
The project has been designed with sustainability in mind, with a focus on reducing carbon emissions and promoting biodiversity. The project will include green roofs, rainwater harvesting, and electric vehicle charging points, as well as extensive landscaping to provide habitats for local wildlife.
Treveth Development LLP will work closely with Partners to ensure that the development is integrated into the wider community and provides benefits for all. The project will create approximately 700 jobs during construction, and once completed, it will support an estimated 500 permanent jobs in the commercial, leisure, and hospitality sectors.
The Pydar project is a significant investment in Truro's future. The project will provide new homes, jobs, and leisure facilities, as well as enhancing the local environment and supporting the city's growth and prosperity.
The next stage of the project will move on to detailed design development and procurement. Treveth Development LLP and Partners will continue to work closely to ensure that the project progresses smoothly and delivers the promised benefits for Truro and Cornwall.
This project has been assisted by the Government’s One Public Estate Programme’s Brownfield Land Release Fund, which unlocked £2.45m in funding to undertake site planning, analysis, and delivery activity.
The Pydar project, located next to the town centre in the heart of Truro, is vital to the long-term health and prosperity of the city by providing much needed affordable housing, new walking and cycling paths, and improving biodiversity along the River Allen. For more information on the Pydar project and how you can have your say, visit pydar.co.uk, email pydar@cornwall.gov.uk, or follow @PydarTruro on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
PARTNERSHIP AGREEMENT REACHED BETWEEN FALMOUTH UNIVERSITY, TREVETH DEVELOPMENT AND CORNWALL COUNCIL TO ANCHOR PYDAR DEVELOPMENT
18 April 2023
Falmouth University, Treveth Development, and Cornwall Council have announced the completion of Heads of Terms for the University to become the anchor tenant at the £200m Pydar development.
This major step forward for Truro and the region will create a centre for collaboration, innovation, learning, and creativity all housed in a multi-generational neighbourhood that puts sustainability and wellbeing at its heart.
The Pydar development is a mixed-use project in the centre of Truro that will provide much-needed housing, leisure and green space, as well as improved health and biodiversity gains for the River City of Cornwall.
Falmouth University will be the main tenant in the development, occupying a purpose-built, state-of-the-art facility that will bring its creative energy and collaborative spirit to Truro, allow it to expand its impact for Cornwall and offer new opportunities for students, researchers, and the next generation of entrepreneurs and creators.
750 students and associated staff, researchers and business partners will be located at the new university campus. This innovative learning and living environment will help grow both a vibrant local community and Cornwall's wider economy. Activity at Pydar Street will be focused on Falmouth’s core specialisms of creativity and technology.
"We are delighted to be progressing our involvement on this exciting project," said Professor Emma Hunt, Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive of Falmouth University. “At Pydar, totally aligned with the ambitions of Cornwall Council, we are blending learning, research, enterprise, leisure and living, to help regenerate Truro and to help address the future needs of Cornwall’s economy. Our activity will focus on Falmouth’s growing specialisms in creativity and technology, in fields that are flourishing in Cornwall and in disciplines that are adding value to sectors including heritage and tourism, healthcare and agri-tech.”
“Not only will our students, researchers and colleagues bring their economic and academic value to the city we envisage the facility and the resources within it as being open available to the local community for educational, entertainment and business uses.”
The Pydar development will be a multi-generational neighbourhood, with purpose built accommodation for students, and 300+ high quality homes for local people including 35% affordable housing. The development will include 3.5 acres of public and green spaces, over 12,500 sqm of food and beverage, hotel, and community space to create a year-round destination for entertainment and leisure. The project will be a model for sustainable development, with a focus on reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable lifestyles.
Louis Gardner, Cornwall Council cabinet portfolio holder for economy, said: “Our Council team has been working very hard over the last couple years to support the Pydar development. We are thrilled to support this partnership and be one step closer to getting this development off the ground. We want to thank all our partners for their commitment to Truro and continued investment in Cornwall.”
"Treveth Development is proud to be working with Falmouth University and Cornwall Council on this exciting project," said Tim Mulholland, Managing Director of Treveth Development. "The Pydar development will be a game-changer for Truro and the wider region, providing much-needed housing and excellent opportunities to improve our environment and local biodiversity. We look forward to working with our partners to make this project a success from day one."
The Pydar development will also provide a boost to the local economy, creating new jobs and opportunities for local businesses. The project is expected to attract new investment to the region and help to position Truro as a hub for innovation and creativity.
"This is an exciting development for Truro and Cornwall as a whole," said Steven Webb, Mayor of Truro. "We are proud to be partnering with the Falmouth University and Treveth Development on this project and look forward to seeing it come to fruition. This has been a journey for our residents and businesses as well as the City Council, Cornwall Council, and wider stakeholders. I couldn’t be happier with the announcement of this new partnership."
The completion of Heads of Terms marks a major milestone for the Pydar development and paves the way for the project to move forward. The Falmouth University, Treveth Development, and Cornwall Council will now work together to finalise the details of the project and begin construction, pending approval of the Reserved Matters Application.
The Pydar development, located next to the town centre in the heart of Truro, is vital to the long-term health and prosperity of the city by providing much needed affordable housing, new walking and cycling paths, and improving biodiversity along the River Allen. For more information on the Pydar project and how you can have your say, visit pydar.co.uk, email pydar@cornwall.gov.uk, or follow @PydarTruro on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
YOUNG PEOPLE MAKE THEIR MARK ON PYDAR
13 March 2023
In partnership with a local artist, Jon Lilly, young people from across Truro came together to create art and showcase their talent on the Pydar site.
The eye-catching mural across from the Pydar Pop-up on Saint Clement Street captures the spirit of the young people and their ideas, energy, and skill. 12 young people gathered over 3 days, spending 12 hours together, learning about different painting techniques and how to channel their energy into productive, fun, and inspiring art.
The artist, Jon Lilly, is native to Truro and has been part of the cultural scene for decades, mentored the young people and supported them as they came up with their own designs and ideas. Despite the cloudy weather, the group came together and brought some light and fun to the site.
The work, centred on the large tree, was designed by the young people to reference the future of the site and the dozens of new trees that will be planted as well as reflect nearby Daubuz Moor. They have painted their names in a way that reflects their individuality and uniqueness.
The process was very much focused on exploring ideas and techniques for applying graffiti / street art media in a safe, inclusive, respectful, and considered approach.
Tim Mulholland, Managing Director of Treveth Developments, said: “These young people have shared with us, and the world, their creativity. This new generation is bringing energy and excitement to Truro. And it’s a sign of great things to come on this Pydar site.”
Jon Lilly, artist and mentor for the young people, added: “The young people were central to creating this artwork. I hope they’ll gain a lot from undertaking this project in the public eye. As well as creating art, it’s a great opportunity for them to get stuck in to managing a project, preparing a design brief, team building, problem solving, negotiating and making decisions, communicating with artists, and creating something that can be shared with the public.”
The project was facilitated by Charlotte Williams of Salt Projects and developed with Young People Cornwall, Zebs Truro. Truro BID kindly donated use of the barriers and cones. This work was proudly funded by Treveth Developments and the Pydar project.
The Cornwall Council-led proposals for the Pydar development, located next to the town centre in the heart of Truro, are vital to the long-term health and prosperity of the city by providing much needed affordable housing, new walking and cycling paths, and improving biodiversity along the River Allen. For more information on the Pydar project and how you can have your say, visit pydar.co.uk, email pydar@cornwall.gov.uk, or follow @PydarTruro on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter
Pydar Dispatch, Spring 2023 issue
PROJECT TEAM WANTS YOUR VIEW AHEAD OF RESERVED MATTERS PLANNING APPLICATION
2 November 2022
After a summer of consultation and public engagement, the project team are excited to share the updated designs for Pydar. A new consultation will take place to hear public’s feedback on the detailed design submission, known as a Reserved Matters Application, for building plans for Phase 1A and 1B.
The project team will be hosting the following drop-in sessions:
Wednesday, 16 November: 9am-5pm at the Lemon Street Market First Floor Gallery
Wednesday, 16 November: 9am-4pm at the Truro Farmer’s Market, Lemon Quay
Thursday, 17 November: 8am-5pm at the Lemon Street Market First Floor Gallery
Friday, 18 November: 9am-12pm at the Lemon Street Market First Floor Gallery
Friday, 18 November: 10am-9pm at the Festive Market, Lemon Quay
Saturday 19 November: 9am-4pm at the Festive Market, Lemon Quay
This consultation builds on the approval of Outline Planning Consent achieved in September 2021. Following this consultation, a Reserved Matters Application (RMA) will be submitted to the Council’s Planning Department for consideration. A decision will be made in Spring 2023.
Everyone is encouraged to visit and meet the project team, including architects and project managers, who will be on hand to answer questions, talk about the project, and hear directly from local residents and businesses.
Louis Gardner, Cornwall Council cabinet portfolio holder for economy, said: “The next stage in the planning process will provide much more detail on how the Pydar development will look, as well as dealing with aspects such as access, landscaping and scale. It’s really important that we reflect the views of the local community – this is your city.”
The project team are also interested in speaking to those groups that are from minority ethnic, religious, or differently abled communities. For those that require assistance or any translation services, please get in touch and we can arrange a session with you.
The Pydar development, located next to the town centre in the heart of Truro, is vital to the long-term health and prosperity of the city by providing much needed affordable housing, new walking and cycling paths, and improving biodiversity along the River Allen. For more information on the Pydar project and how you can have your say, visit pydar.co.uk, email pydar@cornwall.gov.uk, or follow @PydarTruro on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
PROJECT TEAM CELEBRATE START OF DEMOLITION ON PYDAR SITE
28 June 2022
After years of being a brownfield site, some of the older buildings on the Pydar site will begin to come down at the end of April. With hoarding installed and heavy machinery in place, the buildings that once housed Cornwall Council offices and car parks will be safely and securely taken down.
The Mayor of Truro, Steven Webb, along with Deputy Mayor Karlene Stokes, Cllr Chris Wells, Cllr Richard Ambler, Cllr Rod Pascoe, and Cllr Karen La Borde and members of the project team from PRP Architects and Inner Circle Consulting were on hand to visit the site and mark an important milestone as demolition works get underway.
The Pydar project will bring hundreds of new homes, 35% of which will be affordable, as well as student accommodation for an innovation centre partnership with Falmouth University. Along with new leisure and food and beverage space and over 3 acres of public greenspace and trees and unlock access to the River Allen.
Stephen Rushworth, the Council’s Portfolio Holder for the Economy, said: “This marks another exciting stage in the journey of this project. This work will bring much-needed jobs and investment to the heart of our city. I’m already excited to see workers and machinery on site, getting to the important business of reshaping the Pydar site.”
Chris Wells, Truro City and Cornwall Councillor for Truro Moresk & Trehaverne, added: “This is an important site for Truro’s future and sat long last real activity is taking place. I’m pleased that the demolition contractors and all project parties are working closely with our community to ensure there is as little disruption as possible.”
Truro Bowl will continue to be open to the public throughout the project. Drivers heading to Truro are urged to make use of the Park and Ride sites. Alternative long and short stay parking can be found at Moorfield, Edward Street and Moresk, and short-stay parking at Old Bridge Street.
Works are expected to be complete by late Summer 2022
While the work is carried out, pedestrians will be unable to access the walkway alongside the car park, but pavements will still be open and clear for walking.
Steven Webb, Mayor of Truro, said: “It was an honour to have a tour of the site and take note of the exciting change that is coming to our city. Cornwall Council, Truro City Council, and the project team have all worked diligently to bring this project to this point. In a few years, we will see beautiful landscaping, harmonious new buildings, and a revitalised city centre. This is a great opportunity not just for Truro, but for all of Cornwall, and I look forward to seeing the site progress.”
More details will be available over the coming months and on www.pydar.co.uk.
For more information on this work, contact Lead Non-Operational Surveyor Jonny Alford via jonny.alford@cornwall.gov.uk
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PYDAR WINS BUILDING WITH NATURE ‘DESIGN AWARD’
17 August, 2021
The Pydar proposal is the first development in Cornwall to be recognised by this prestigious award for excellence in sustainability and high-quality green infrastructure. Building with Nature, an organisation dedicated to supporting sustainability in place-making, noted that the Pydar scheme presents an, “innovative and committed approach to multifunctional green infrastructure at the street scale, as well as sustainable drainage, to truly ensure this site will remain resilient to the impacts of climate change, including flooding.”
The scheme will contribute to the Council’s aims to be net carbon-neutral by 2030 by delivering 60 per cent of its power needs through renewable sources of energy. A reduction in car parking will be offset by supporting new modes of sustainable transport, such as cycling, as well as electric vehicle charging and car club spaces throughout the development.
Pydar will create new walking and cycling paths and open up access to the River Allen, which will encourage active and healthy lifestyles, as well as ensuring people and wildlife can benefit from movement through the site and out into the wider landscape.
The Award body also noted, “the efforts made by the design team to retain as many of the existing green infrastructure features as possible, to optimise the site’s potential to add positively to the nature recovery network, creating links through the site, and out to green infrastructure assets in close proximity, including Victoria Park and the River Allen.”
Cornwall Council, Treveth Development LLP, PRP Architects, and Inner Circle Consulting are proud that the Pydar proposals have been recognised by the Building With Nature Design Award and look forward to sharing the sustainability and green benefits of this project with the public during our consultation days, running from 31 August to 5 September. The Pydar scheme is currently in the planning system with a decision due in mid-September this year.
For more information about this project and how you can have your say, email pydar@cornwall.gov.uk, or follow @PydarTruro on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.