Possible reprieve for wrecked paddle steamer

Planning permission is being sought to remove and restore the Compton Castle in Truro

A wrecked paddle steamer moored in Truro may be saved from being broken up.

The Compton Castle has been moored on Lemon Quay since 1982 and has been reported to house rough sleepers at times.

In March the Cornwall Harbours board agreed to break the boat up at a cost of £200,000.

A planning application has now been submitted by a couple who are part of a steamer restoration group outlining their idea to remove and restore the boat on farmland near Truro.

In March Cornwall Harbours agreed to break the boat up at a cost of £200,000

A report by the Cornwall Harbours board said the boat, which has previously been a restaurant, café and music venue, had become home to rough sleepers.

In March the board agreed to start the £200,000 break-up process of the paddle streamer and seek match funding from the Truro Town Deal board, while also pursuing recovery costs from the boat’s owner, Porthia Ltd.

Paul Bent and Manti Tauren-Bent, of Treheveras Farm, Kenwyn, have sought permission to move the Compton Castle to their property to restore it.

Their application said the couple, both members of the Paddle Steamer Renovation Society, want to crane-lift the boat, move it to their land and "renovate to its former glory".

This news was gathered by the Local Democracy Reporting Service which covers councils and other public service organisations.