Historic Buildings in Cornwall to be Transformed into Modern Community Hub

Multi-Million-Pound Project Set to Revitalise Camborne’s Heritage Site

Poynton Bradbury Architects have unveiled ambitious plans to transform two historic listed buildings in Camborne, Cornwall, into a vibrant community centre. The project, funded by the Town Deal and supported by Cornwall Council, aims to preserve and revitalise the Basset Centre and the neighbouring White House, both integral parts of the Cornish Mining World Heritage Site.

Architectural Vision

The architectural firm, which operates from offices in St Ives and Exeter, plans to sympathetically restore the former boarding school and villa. A modern glass atrium will connect the two buildings, creating a cohesive space while maintaining their distinct identities. Additionally, a new performance and events area will be constructed to accommodate various community activities.

Director Chris Turner highlighted the significance of the project: “Combining the Basset Centre and neighbouring White House sites within a single project ensures the long-term future of the two important Grade II Listed buildings that form an integral part of the town’s streetscape and heritage.”

New Community Facilities

The transformed buildings, to be renamed the Basset Community Hub, will feature a range of facilities designed to serve the local community. These include a modern, spacious library, a dedicated youth space, a community café, and a heritage exhibition experience. Notably, the hub will also house the Trevithick Society’s Puffing Devil replica engine, providing a permanent home for this piece of local history.

Emma Hosking, an RIBA-accredited Conservation Architect from Poynton Bradbury’s heritage team, explained the approach to the project: “A lot of work goes into a heritage project. We visit the site taking in everything about the area and the influences that have gone into the buildings. It’s about understanding the story and history of these structures and bringing them into the here and now in an architecturally sensitive way.”

Preservation and Restoration

The project includes several restoration efforts aimed at preserving the historical integrity of the buildings. These efforts involve sympathetic repairs to windows and replacing modern concrete roof tiles on the White House with natural slate, reflecting its original construction.

Poynton Bradbury Architects have a longstanding reputation for handling heritage projects with care. Their previous works include the King Edward Mine in Camborne, St John’s Hall and the Jubilee Pool in Penzance, and the Wheal Martyn Clay Works Museum in St Austell. The firm’s heritage and conservation team, which includes RIBA accredited professionals Laura Highton, Paul Perry, Emma Hosking, and Matt Wills, brings a wealth of experience to this project.

Funding and Support

The project has secured significant funding from the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities Town Fund and Cornwall Council. Additional potential funding from the National Heritage Lottery Fund is still being pursued to ensure the project’s success.

Poynton Bradbury Architects’ commitment to preserving Cornwall’s heritage while adapting it for modern use promises to create a valuable community resource that honours the past while serving future generations.