|
Truro
still has its ancient cobbled streets and early buildings, but at
the same time changes have been ocurring in the city.
Truro
has changed massively in the last decade.
One
of the most noticeable additions is the Italian Style Piazza and
shopping development which was opened recently. This houses the
largest Marks and Spencer store in the region.
 |
| Truro's
recently opened Piazza |
"This
development on Lemon Quay has taken a total of ten years to put
together," says Denis Angilley, Property Developer.
"I
think it has been the catalyst to stop too much out of town development.
It will now serve to broaden the retail base in the city, and assure
the future economic growth and viability of the city centre."
As
you walk around the Truro of 2003 there is an air of prosperity
about the city. It is home to many big name stores, trendy coffee
shops and smart art galleries.
 |
| Marks
and Spencer recently opened in Truro |
"We
felt that Truro was a wonderful, vibrant city and had lots to offer,"
says Louise Jones of the Lemon Street Art Gallery.
"We
waited three years for the premises. We wanted to be on Lemon Street,
possibly the most beautiful street in Cornwall."
But
not everyone is quite so delighted with the way Truro has been developed.
 |
| Mallets
in Truro as it looks today |
Robert
Mallet's family have been trading in Truro for many generations.
"I've
got nothing against big names coming in," explains Robert Mallet.
"We are losing the small family specialist businesses which
is what Truro was built up on over all the years. We are losing
our identity and that saddens me."
People
now travel to Truro to shop instead of taking the much longer journey
to Plymouth which they might have done 10 years ago.
Business
analysts say Truro will never compete on the same scale with Plymouth
or Exeter, it is just too small. A lot of local local people will
tell you that is just the way they like it.
Watch
Spotlight on BBC One at 6.30pm from Tuesday 18th to see a three
part series highlighting the South West's cities.
Your
thoughts
What
do you think is the most attractive/least attractive aspect of Truro
today.
What
are you hopes for the city for the future?
Click
here to have your say
|
Dear
All,
Yesterday you mentioned in a news item about the comparison
of 3 West Country Cities which focused on Truro.
I
was born and raised just outside Truro and I have to say that
I now hate the town. It has changed beyond all recognition
and has become what is best described as a "yuppie town".
Parking is mission impossible and it is always far to busy.
I totally agree with Robert Mallet who said the town has lost
many of its local business sites and therefore most of its
character which I feel is a great shame.
The impact of the changes in Truro have also been seen in
the local area especially the road network. I'm convinced
most of the planners don't drive and do not realise how difficult
it is to get into the town. They have even gone the lengths
of putting speed limits in the country lanes around the town
which cannot be policed due to lack of resources. The signs
themselves must have cost a fortune and are a complete waste
of good money because only a complete lunatic could exceed
those limits. It would be interesting to poll local people
as I know a great number who now shop in Redruth, Camborne
and Falmouth just to avoid the necessity of getting into Truro.
I know my opinion is probably worthless but at least you have
given me the opportunity to get it off my chest so many thanks.
Paul Dyer, Truro
|
I grew up in Cornwall in St.Austell and have many fond memories
of days out shopping in Truro as a child. I always liked the
funny little alleys in Truro and enjoyed finding little cafes
and shops tucked away from view. I live in Gateshead now but
Truro is still one of my favourite places in Cornwall!
Andrew Wadsworth, Gateshead
|
|
I live in Truro and I always have and always will. Keep it
the way it is, the way us Cornish people like it.
Anon, Truro
|
|
Truro is a really good place to live. Although it's small
theres always something to do. It's better for shopping then
Plymouth as shops are easier to find. I've lived near Truro
all my live and the shops have got better.
Me
and all my family are in to surfing, there are loads of surf
shops in Truro. And when I went to Plymouth I could only find
two. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else.
Natalie, Porthtowan Nr Truro
|
|
