CONSTRUCTION work has begun on new key worker accommodation close to the Royal Cornwall Hospital in Truro.

Representatives from Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust (RCHT), Nevada Construction and health and care property developer Prime gathered on-site at Tresawls Road to celebrate the beginning of the development with a turf-cutting ceremony.

A short walk from the Royal Cornwall Hospital, the scheme will provide 22 new housing units spread across three purpose-built residential blocks. These will offer 89 beds in a mix of three-, four-, and five-bedroom apartments, all with shared kitchen and living spaces and modern bathrooms.

The project reflects a commitment by RCHT to address the critical shortage of affordable and desirable housing options in the area. The accommodation has been designed by Cornish firm CAD Architects, and once complete, will be managed by not-for-profit organisation Hyve by Prime. The waiting list will open to Truro hospital workers in summer 2026.

RCHT chief executive Steve Williamson described the housing as “a truly significant development for the Royal Cornwall Hospitals and the wider community”.

He added: “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. It’s a forward-thinking investment in our people, our services and the future of healthcare in Cornwall.”

Nevada Construction associate director Mark Jones added: “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.”

Stay updated on the project’s progress at primeplc.com/consultation/tresawls-road/