Seaside town voted ‘UK’s prettiest’ set for increase in tourism with £23m cruise dock development – and new retail spaces
A POPULAR seaside resort is set for a major upgrade to its waterfront.
The work, which includes a revamp of the cruise dock, could see Falmouth's tourism spike even higher.
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Falmouth, which has a population of 33,128, is often regarded among the UK's top coastal towns, and is a bustling hub for staycationers.
Located almost a two hour drive from Plymouth, the Cornwall town has previously earned itself descriptions such as "prettiest", "coolest", and "friendliest" from the likes of Time Out.
Now, developers a proposing a project that will further enhance the town's tourism.
The work will see Falmouth's dock completely refurbished, with plans submitted to Cornwall Council for approval.
The application from the Falmouth Docks and Engineering Company (FDEC) detailed the proposed transformation.
It described how work would take them from their "current run-down and unsafe condition into a state-of-the-art facility capable of meeting the needs of modern industries and fit for the challenges of the 21st century".
This upgrade is part of a larger development plan, which includes a dredging project of £23 million.
As well as removing built up material in the harbour, the proposed work is designed to increase the port's capacity.
Ship repair facilities will be modernised and enhancements will be made to the wharves, enabling them to handle larger cruise ships.
The plan also includes providing a new superyacht basin and workshops, catering to the needs of luxury vessels.
This redevelopment plan will also include new retail spaces, including work on Market Quay, which involves the transformation of the former Marks & Spencer building into three commercial units.
If approved, the development will be the first major civil engineering project carried out on Falmouth docks since the late 1950s.
The last project involved the construction of the Queen Elizabeth drydock and the County/Duchy wharves to accommodate the post war super tanker era.
Meanwhile, the demolition of the 1930s built King’s and Empire jetties 20 years ago robbed the docks of all-important berthing capacity, leading to the docks' current "musical berths" dilemma.
As well as being established for ship repair, the Falmouth Docks also featured on the big screen in Brad Pitt's 2011 blockbuster hit World War Z.
By Nicole Cherruault
A "DOWNTRODDEN" English ghost town is being turned into a "vibrant" shopping hub in a £9million revamp.
The town in northern Manchester set to totally transform as the council launches a multi-million pound "vision for change" after locals complained the town felt "left behind".
More than 600 people were consulted over renovation plans in Eccles, Salford and work has now started on demolishing the town's shopping centre, which was suffering from falling visitors numbers.
Following the demolition stage, a development partner will be appointed to bring new life to what residents described as a "downtrodden" town, reports Manchester Evening News.
The objective, the council said, is to create a "vibrant" and a "fit for purpose" centre for people to enjoy.
Attracting more independent retailers, and new bars and cafes are among the council's top priorities.
And just three miles from Salford Quays and Manchester city centre, the redevelopment project looks set to transform the area into a buzzing place for young professionals and business owners.
This comes as locals despaired over the ailing town, saying they felt it had been "left behind" and it was in desperate need of some "drastic" improvements.
The council stressed that the demolition work will be a long process, with the initial phase due only to be completed by the end of the year.
However, Councillor Mike McCusker reassured locals that despite the renovations, the town centre "remains open for business", stressing that the works only affect a few areas.
He said: “Whilst we work on the town centre of the future, today’s town centre remains open for business,” said Coun Mike McCusker, lead member for planning, transport and sustainable development at Salford council.
“I want to stress that this demolition work only affects certain parts of the town centre.
“The shops and businesses on Church Street are still open for business and unaffected by this work.”
Meanwhile, Councillor McCusker, who represents the Eccles ward, shared his enthusiasm for the project, in particular for its focus on the local community.
In a statement, he spoke of his "excitement" for the times ahead in materialising their vision for a brighter, more dynamic Eccles.
He said “Through our purchase of the shopping centre, we were able to put the future of the town centre in the hands of the council and the community.
“It has enabled us to begin this important and long-overdue programme of work, to deliver the vision we have developed with the community.
“The demolition work will take some time, but there are exciting times ahead for Eccles as we work to bring this vision to life.”
And if visiting this famous film location isn't enough of a draw, there's plenty to do in Falmouth.
You can try out your sea legs with sailing trips, speed boat excursions, yacht charters, kayak tours, or wildlife cruises.
Or if you want to get into the water yourself, the local Cornish Diving School accommodates all levels, including beginner.
Falmouth also boasts four beaches, including Gyllyngvase Beach, which has a long stretch of golden sand.
You can also take in the stunning coastal views from the town's local golf course.
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And for days where the weather isn't as cooperative, there are a wide range of indoor activities on offer.
These include the Kernow Escape Room, Love Park for indoor skating, Falmouth Art Gallery, and the award-winning independent Phoenix Cinema.
And for history buffs, Pendennis Castle, the National Maritime Museum, and the Polliander Restoration Workshops provide a fascinating glimpse into the area's past.
There is a wide range of accommodation options to choose from, with a "cosy room in a central townhouse" going for just £83 per night.
Falmouth is also a heaven for foodies, with gastro pubs such as The Boathouse offering stunning views across the harbour while you dine.
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