A popular public viewpoint over St Ives bay has undergone a much-needed makeover.

The Malakoff open space and garden area, which also functions as the town's main bus hub, has been transformed following funding from The Town Deal funded scheme.

The ambitious scheme includes a new bespoke bus shelter and the installation of new granite paving, bespoke granite planters and illuminated benches, new street furniture, including bike stands, a new millwheel feature and lighting.

The project also involved the temporarily relocating the iconic sculpture Epidauros II by Dame Barbara Hepworth to the Penwith Gallery while the works were carried out. The historic mill wheel was also removed from the site and put into storage to enable it to be re-instated once the works were complete.

The St Ives Town Deal Low Carbon Transport Strategy aims to reduce the impact of vehicles on St Ives and introduce measures that encourage walking, cycling and the use of public transport.

The scheme developed and constructed by Cormac in collaboration with local architects Lavigne Lonsdale, has been delivered by Cornwall Council in partnership with the St Ives Town Deal Board and the St Ives Town Council as well as custodians of the prominent space.

Andrew Baragwanath, chair of St Ives Town Deal Board, said: “It is great to see the completion of the works to improve the Malakoff.

“This is a very important area for our town and this long-awaited scheme has transformed it into a modern, vibrant public space worthy of the Barbara Hepworth legacy.

“We are very grateful to Cornwall Council and all the partners who have worked so hard to deliver this transformation. I would also like to thank local residents and businesses for their patience and support during the construction and hope that they enjoy visiting the finished scheme.”

Cllr Dan Rogerson, Cornwall Council cabinet member for transport, added: “I hope that this scheme, which includes a new bus layby and bus shelter and is sited next to the rail station, will encourage more people to travel to the town by bus and train.

“The Malakoff, with its incredible views of the bay, has always been a popular place to visit. The new seating and paving have created a safer, more accessible and even more attractive environment and I am sure that both local residents and visitors will enjoy it.”

Project lead Kieren Couch said “We recognise that the delivery of the Malakoff scheme has taken longer than originally anticipated.

“This was largely due to the supply, fabrication and co-ordination of multiple bespoke components, many of which were supplied by local craftspeople and were necessary to achieve the right outcome deserved for such a prominent location.

“However, I hope the temporary disruption is considered in balance against the quality of the completed project and the enhanced environment that has now been created for all. The Malakoff is a primary gateway into the town for residents and visitors travelling by bus and the finished scheme now provides a welcoming, high-quality public space that supports the significance, character and charm of St Ives.”