A solution to the long-running saga for a multi-million-pound expansion to one of Cornwall's most popular attractions may have been found (link below.)
http://thisiscornwall.co.uk/displayNode.jsp?nodeId=144125&command=displayContent&sourceNode=232510&home=yes&more_nodeId1=232470&contentPK=20473625Plans to extend Tate St Ives were first mooted as long ago as 2001, as the gallery became a victim of its own success, drawing nearly three times the predicted number of visitors.
That idea has been pursued in earnest since 2004, when a number of options were put to the public without producing a clear way forward.
Now it has emerged that the Tate has had detailed discussions with Penwith Housing Association, which wants to redevelop and upgrade the Meadow Flats sheltered housing, which neighbours the site.
Many see that deal as more acceptable than allowing the housing association to fund the new flats through a speculative development on a site which has uninterrupted views over Porthmeor Beach and across the sea.
It would also negate the gallery's ^12.3 million plan to build on a nearby car park, which provoked a 2,500-signature petition.
Both parties admitted they had been in talks and were positive about the possible benefits, although they stressed it was "very early" in the process.
The Tate is widely regarded as one of Cornwall's tourism jewels. A runaway success, it has both added to the experience of summer visitors, but also attracted thousands during the "shoulder" season.
St Ives
MP▸ Andrew George said the Tate had been a "stonking success" and accepted that it needed to expand. But he said previous proposals had caused "nuclear war" in the town, where "feelings run high" over preserving parking and sea views.
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