Work to Remove Derelict Compton Castle Paddle Steamer Begins at Lemon Quay

Work begins to remove the Compton Castle from Truro’s waterfront

Work is set to begin tomorrow, Wednesday 25th June, to dismantle and remove the derelict paddle steamer Compton Castle from its berth at Lemon Quay in Truro.

Specialist contractors Gilpin Demolition have been appointed to carry out the removal, which is expected to take around four weeks. The steamer, which sank on its mooring in 2023, has been described as unstable and will need to be carefully broken into pieces. These will then be placed in containers and removed from the site by lorry.

Access to Lemon Quay remains open

Despite the work, Truro City Council has confirmed that access to Lemon Quay will remain unaffected during the removal process. The council’s Events Officer is in contact with Quay users to help ensure a smooth transition while the work is carried out.

This removal marks a major step in the wider regeneration of Truro’s waterfront. The project is being delivered through the £23.6 million Truro Town Deal, alongside Cornwall Council and the Cornwall Harbours Authority.

Part of a bigger plan for Truro’s future

The removal of the Compton Castle is a key moment in the transformation of Town Quay and Lemon Quay. Once clear, the area will begin its redevelopment into a greener, more welcoming space with better access to the river.

Plans under the Truro Town Deal include:

• A new pedestrian bridge at Lighterage Quay

• A day boat pontoon and waterside path

• Ramped access from Garras Wharf car park to Morlaix Avenue

• Improved connection onto Town Quay from Morlaix Avenue

• Renovation of the harbour office

• Better use of benches, street furniture and lighting

• New trees and landscaping

• Capital dredging and public realm improvements

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.”

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.”

Cllr Tim Dwelly, Cornwall Council’s portfolio holder for Economic Regeneration and Investment, added:
“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.”

Background

Efforts to find a new role or home for the Compton Castle had failed in recent years. Its condition continued to deteriorate, and in 2023 it sank on its mooring. Despite temporary repairs, the boat remained empty and unsafe.

With the owner failing to take action, members of the Truro Town Deal and Cornwall Harbours Board agreed to fund the removal to prevent further delay.

The work beginning this week marks the start of a major regeneration effort, with the long-term goal of reconnecting Truro with its river and creating a more vibrant city centre space for the community and visitors alike.