The start of construction work on new key worker accommodation at Tresawls Road, Truro, has been officially marked with a turf cutting ceremony. Representatives from Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust (RCHT), Nevada Construction and Prime, gathered on-site to celebrate the beginning of this landmark development.
The project reflects a commitment by the Trust and Prime to support frontline public sector workers, particularly NHS staff, by addressing the critical shortage of affordable and desirable housing options in the area. By improving access to quality accommodation, the Trust is better able to support the recruitment and retention of staff who are vital to providing care to the local community.
Just a short walk from the Royal Cornwall Hospital, the new development will bring 22 new housing units, spread across three purpose-built residential blocks. Together, they’ll offer 89 beds in a mix of 3-, 4-, and 5-bedroom apartments that will each include shared kitchen and living spaces, along with modern bathrooms.
The scheme has been thoughtfully designed by Cornish firm CAD Architects, with civil and structural engineering by Airey & Coles, and building services by One Creative Environments, ensuring a high-quality, well-coordinated development.
Once complete, the accommodation will be managed by Hyve by Prime, a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to enhancing the wellbeing of key workers through quality housing. Hyve currently operates Alexandra House in Dorchester and plans to open the waiting list to hospital workers in Truro the summer of 2026.
Steve Williamson, Chief Executive of Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust, said “It’s an absolute pleasure to celebrate and mark the start of what is set to be a truly significant development for the Royal Cornwall Hospitals and the wider community. This new key worker accommodation will play a vital role in supporting how we deliver services, by helping us attract and retain the dedicated staff who are at the heart of patient care.
“This project is a great example of what can be achieved through strong partnerships. Working alongside Prime, we’re creating high-quality, affordable housing that meets the real needs of our workforce. It’s a forward-thinking investment in our people, our services and the future of healthcare in Cornwall.”
Mark Jones, Associate Director at Nevada Construction, added “Nevada is proud to be part of this landmark project for the South West. As a proud Cornishman, it is especially meaningful to contribute to something of such significance in the region. Having driven past this site many times, it is incredibly rewarding to see real progress being made – progress that directly supports the vital needs of the NHS. We hope this will be the first of many sites that help address those needs across the region.
“We are eager to see the project through to completion and welcome the first residents. The enthusiasm from both design and delivery teams is clear to see, and the pride they take in their work is evident in the quality and cleanliness of the site.
Thank you for the opportunity to be involved. We look forward to seeing this partnership continue to grow.”
Prime’s Chief Executive, Leighton Chumbley, said “We’re proud to be working with Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust to deliver high-quality homes for key workers through Hyve. This development is about more than just housing, it’s about supporting the people who support our communities. The turf cutting marks an exciting milestone in that journey”
To stay updated on the project’s progress, visit Prime’s dedicated community page, here.
