Lemon Quay Works Begin But Truro Stays Open As Usual

Work has now started at Lemon Quay as part of plans to refresh the space, with Truro city centre remaining open as normal for shoppers, workers and visitors.

The works got underway on Monday 5th January 2026 and are aimed at strengthening the link between the city centre and Truro’s waterfront. Streets around Lemon Quay are unaffected and access is being maintained throughout.

City centre open as normal

Pedestrians can continue to use Lemon Quay and enjoy its shops, bars, hotel and pannier market. Bus services and access to the bus station remain unchanged, and public toilets are also unaffected.

Pedestrian and vehicle access will stay in place for the duration of the works, with no road closures planned. Signing, lighting and guarding have been installed to protect the public while work is ongoing.

Events to continue where possible

Farmers markets and other regular events are expected to continue between January and March, with efforts being made to minimise disruption. Any cancellations will be shared on Visit Truro social media channels.

What’s being delivered at Lemon Quay

Lemon Quay is the first area to be refreshed as part of the wider Harbour and Lemon Quay scheme. Planned improvements include an enhanced events space with a projector, new green landscaping with trees and planting, more benches and street furniture, and improved cycle parking to support greener travel.

The programme has been phased and scheduled during a quieter period of the year to support the delivery of a high quality outcome.

Who is delivering the work

The works are being delivered by Cormac, starting at the Lemon Street end of the Quay. The programme is expected to last around 14 weeks.

Tim Dwelly from Cornwall Council said:
“It’s great news that residents, visitors and businesses can get in and around the city as usual while this important investment starts around this significant city centre public space.”

Alun Jones from Truro BID said:
“Lemon Quay and the wider Truro city centre continue to be fantastic places to shop, eat, drink and enjoy while these enhancement works take place. I urge residents and visitors to come into the city for their January bargains, coffee with friends and nights out. A big thank you to Cormac for keeping roads and pedestrian routes open for all our businesses.”

David Rodda from Truro City Council said:
“As the license holder for Lemon Quay it’s great to see this work begin. We aim to continue with a regular programme of events whilst the work is underway and are looking forward to seeing the improvements to what is a very important event space in Truro.”

Keeping up to date

Visitors can scan large QR codes on the site hoardings, which link to the project’s Let’s Talk webpage. Updates will also be shared on Truro Town Deal social media, with city centre businesses receiving information through Truro BID.

What’s coming next

Later in the spring, work is expected to move to the river, including dredging to allow vessels to stay in the city for longer. Further works are also anticipated at Town Quay, the former Compton Castle area and the subway access to Garras Wharf.

The Harbour and Lemon Quay scheme, which also includes Town Quay and the proposed Lighterage Bridge, received £10.4 million from the government’s Town Deal programme, with a further £1.28 million from Cornwall Council.

📷Truro Harbour and Lemon Quay Birds Eye Artist Impression