A sports club in Cornwall has been fined £1,000 for serving alcohol inside the premises in breach of Covid regulations.  

A Covid Enforcement Officer from Cornwall Council issued the fixed penalty notice on Wednesday, in liaison with Devon and Cornwall Police.  

Under the current restrictions, hospitality venues including pubs, bars and social clubs must remain closed, with the exception of providing food and non-alcoholic drinks for takeaway (until 11pm). 

The fixed penalty notice was issued after members of the club were found to be drinking alcohol inside the licensed premises on January 15. 

Cllr Rob Nolan, Portfolio Holder for Environment and Public Protection, said: “This club put both its members and the local community at risk.  

“The number of cases in Cornwall remains higher than we would like and it is simply unacceptable that these selfish individuals ignored the restrictions to drink socially.  

“We will always work with businesses to help explain the rules and how best to enforce them. In this instance, the business clearly knew that it was breaching the regulations and there is no excuse for this. 

“If businesses have questions or concerns, we urge them to get in touch. For the minority who refuse to follow the rules, we will not hesitate to take action.”  

Since the start of the pandemic, Cornwall Council has taken enforcement action against six businesses for Covid breaches.  

The club has 14 days to appeal to notice. 

Businesses can find support and guidance regarding the latest restrictions on the Business Regulatory Support website. 

Residents across Cornwall are being urged to stay safe when venturing out for their daily exercise. 

During lockdown you are allowed to leave your home to exercise but you should stay local to your town or village wherever possible and not take unnecessary risks.  

Cornwall Council is urging residents to avoid crowded spaces where it may be harder to socially distance and to be careful if you’re near the coast. There are more rock falls in winter so it’s best not to walk beneath cliffs at this time of year. 

The RNLI is reminding people to people to stay well back from stormy, wintry seas and cliff edges, check tide times before you go out, and make sure you take a phone with you. Always call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard if you or someone else is in trouble. 

Councillor Rob Nolan, cabinet member for Environment and Public Protection, said: “Getting some exercise, even just a short walk, can make a big difference to how we feel and it’s important that we all look after ourselves as best we can.   

“But we do ask that people think carefully before travelling to exercise. If you can exercise close to your home please do and when you are out and about, try to stay away from others and stay safe.” 

RNLI lifeboats and stations remain operational and will launch around the clock where there is risk to life. 

Steve Instance, the RNLI’s water safety lead for the south west, said: “We would encourage everyone to follow the latest government guidelines on what they are able to do and where they are able to go during lockdown, but for anyone visiting a coastal area please understand the risks to be as safe as possible and not put unnecessary strain on front line services.  

“No one ever heads to the coast with the expectation of needing to be rescued yet rescues are occurring every day.  So, whether you are walking, running or cycling at the coast, or doing some activity on or in the water, please be extra responsible and avoid taking unnecessary risks.”  

The RNLI’s key water safety advice is: 

• Take care if walking near cliffs – be aware of ice and frost, know your route and keep dogs on a lead 

• Check tide times daily 

• Take a full-charged phone  

• If going afloat, always wear a lifejacket or other personal flotation device and take a means of calling for help 

• Check your equipment is in good working order 

• Be aware of the conditions and your capabilities and only enter the water if it is safe to do so 

• In an emergency call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard 

• Additional safety advice at www.rnli.org/safety   

Residents of Cornwall are being reminded of their duty to maintain buildings they own so that they don’t pose a danger to the public. 

It comes as Cornwall Council has seen the number of reported cases of dangerous structures increase every year since 2015, when the total stood at 168. 

In 2020, a total of 254 concerns were reported to the Council’s Building Control team. 

Many of the reports have been due to a lack of maintenance, although it is also thought that the increase could be exacerbated in part due to changes in weather patterns, with warmer and wetter winters and more frequent and intense weather extremes causing damage to structures. 

A dangerous structure could, however, be caused by a wide range of things – such as a fire or even a car crash. 

The Council has powers to make sure building users – including the general public – are safe, and its Building Control team operates a 24/7 service to respond to such concerns. 

Tim Dwelly, the Council’s Portfolio Holder for Planning, said: “Dangerous structures can include anything from loose roof slates through to buildings damaged by either a fire or impact from a car. 

“Our Building Control team triages and, where necessary, inspects all dangerous structures that are reported to us and deals with each in terms of the degree of danger it poses. 

“If the structure is deemed an imminent risk, we can serve a notice to require the building owner to take immediate action to remove the danger. 

“In some cases where the owner is either not contactable, or where they are unable or unwilling to take the necessary action, the Council’s Building Control team may have to take default action on the owner’s behalf, in order to protect the public.  In the case of loose slates, for example, this may involve closing a road or fencing off an area, rather than removing the roof covering or loose slates.” 

In all cases where there is a danger, the Council recovers the cost of any involvement or emergency work needed from the building’s owner. 

Neil Read, the Council’s Chief Building Control Officer, said: “It is always worth arranging regular checks of your property for any maintenance that may be required or that is overdue. 

“This may be things like loose roof slates, guttering or rendering to walls or chimneys. It’s also a good idea to check the condition of any fences or garden walls.  

“These simple checks should always be made whilst observing safe working practices. 

“Given the current COVID situation, if any external maintenance works are required that you need professional help with, this will help support local tradespeople at this difficult time. Please make sure that you are using recommended and competent contractors with the appropriate insurances and experience.” 

For more information on building control regulations see here.

 

Story posted January 21, 2021

Residents are invited to join Cornwall’s new Race Equality Forum so that communities can come together and help create a more inclusive, and anti-racist Cornwall.

Cornwall Council is facilitating the event at the request of a Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) steering group established last July in the wake of the global reaction to the death of George Floyd.

 

The steering group have put forward a series of actions which have been endorsed by the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Leadership Board to condemn all racist and discriminatory behaviour, commit to an anti-racist Cornwall and Isles of Scilly, and to work together to tackle racism in all its forms.

One of the key actions was to set up a One and All Race Equality Forum for Cornwall and a new core group for this forum, taking over the work of the BAME Steering Group. The first forum will take place on Thursday 4 February from 6pm until 7.30pm.

Cornwall Council Leader, Julian German said: “This is an opportunity for people across Cornwall to come together and make a real difference to people’s lives. This first session will ask people to agree a model of tackling racism that will work for Cornwall and to decide how they want to be involved as this forum and core group moves forward.

“We want to shine a light on injustices that take place across Cornwall. There should be nowhere that hate and racism can hide. There should be no instances where people are discriminated against, abused, threatened and made to live in fear. I’d urge as many people as possible to come together and stand up against racism in Cornwall.”

The first session will include updates on the steps already taken and a discussion about how the new forum and core group could work and what the priorities should be. It will also include guest speaker, Cllr Asher Craig, Deputy Mayor of Bristol who will talk about Bristol’s  experiences in tackling race inequality head on, the lessons they learned, what worked well and their hopes for the future.

People will also be asked to make a commitment about how they would like to continue to be involved.

To sign up for the session then please visit the Let’s Talk Cornwall website   and answer a few short questions. A link to the online meeting will then be sent to participants.

To read about the agreed aims for tackling racism, and read about more of the work that has taken place then please visit Cornwall Council’s website

Story created on 20 January

A total of 14 projects aiming to boost greener living around Cornwall have been given funding from a new Cornwall Council scheme. 

Back in the summer the Council launched the Community Infrastructure Levy Fund, with the aim of handing out grants to projects that supported low-carbon infrastructure. 

Now, after a vigorous and competitive application and selection process, the successful projects can be announced. 

Tim Dwelly, Cornwall Council Portfolio Holder for Culture, Economy and Planning, said: “When we launched the CIL Fund we wanted to make sure that money went to projects that were based on a low-carbon way of thinking to give their communities a greener future. 

“It was incredibly tough to make the decisions, but we believe that the projects we have backed are deliverable and will really enhance the communities in which they are based. 

“This fund personifies our commitment to tackling climate change and helping Cornwall work towards becoming carbon neutral by 2030. 

“The projects that we have selected show the sort of community action that has not only helped us through the pandemic but will ensure greener, brighter, futures for us all. 

“Congratulations to all those who have been successful and we look forward to seeing the results.” 

Since January 2019 the Council has been charging developers the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) to reduce any potential adverse effects resulting from new housing and other building projects.  

CIL payments are set aside to be spent on infrastructure projects to benefit communities and support development. Between 15 to 25 per cent of the levy goes to the town or parish council where the development has taken place.  

Last summer the Council made a further £500,000 available to not-for-profit organisations and community groups, including local councils, who could bid for funds to pay for infrastructure projects that encourage greener and healthier lifestyles.  

Now the process has been completed, the actual total support provided by the CIL Fund could rise to £622,939, depending on whether some projects secure match-funding from elsewhere.  

Applicants needed to show how there was local need and community support for their project, as well as how it will enable lower carbon living as part of the Council’s ambitions for Cornwall to become carbon-neutral by 2030.  

The successful projects are:  

• The 2 Minute Foundation: £32,576 to convert an old beach office and toilets at Bude into an education centre with a community hub and office space 

• Falmouth Town Council: £43,276 to install a boardwalk to bridge the gap between other components of the Falmouth Green Corridor 

• Chyan Community Trust: £25,000 for a pathway, play trail, signage, multi-use workshop floor area in Mabe 

• Urban Biodiversity CIC - Newquay Community Orchard: £65,000 to improve access routes through the orchard and to carry out final landscaping works, including the planting of over 700 new trees by the community. 

• Our Only World: £67,500 to manufacture and place water bottle refill stations across Cornwall 

• Walker Lines Gymnasium Trust, Bodmin: £53,345 to install 104 solar panels, which will cover more than 50 per cent of the trust’s electricity needs 

• South Kerrier Alliance CIC: £32,645 to create a fully accessible walking and cycling route between Porthleven and the existing routes within the Penrose Estate 

• Launceston Community Development Trust: £35,000 for the planting and landscaping of a community orchard, creating a connected hub with community buildings, several connected paths and crossings, and provide the site with a drainage scheme to reduce flood risk. The project also includes maintenance and protection of present trees, newly planted trees, and hedgerows 

• Troon Association Football Club: £30,000 for the refurbishment and extension of changing rooms and club house facilities for the club and wider community 

• Budehaven Community School: £45,702 for a sustainable temporary structure with surrounding wildlife garden to provide accommodation for pupils at risk of exclusion 

• Dobwalls and Trewidland Parish Council: £30,000 to create a community nature space and for recreational activities 

• Co Cars Ltd: £62,500 to launch a scheme with 18 e-bikes for hire, by the hour, available from charging points at Chy Trevail, town centre and at least four other locations around Bodmin 

• Co Cars Ltd: £58,000 to create an infrastructure of 2 electric cars with EV charging plus 2 public charging points in Bude 

• Stithians Energy Group: £42,395 for the installation of solar panels and a storage battery at the Stithians Centre 

Cornwall Council has launched the application process for the Additional Restrictions Grant (ARG) scheme, aimed at businesses which have been forced to close or limit trading during the current coronavirus lockdown.   

Cornwall has been allocated £11.5m by the Government for the scheme, designed to support businesses who are not eligible for other forms of financial support and have fixed ongoing costs such as rent or mortgage payments, loans or lease agreements for capital equipment or rental of workspaces.

Businesses have until 23.59pm on Sunday, January 31, to apply for a one-off grant. Those eligible include businesses which:    

• Have not previously received any form of coronavirus grant support 
• Are Cornwall based and owned     
• Have been legally required to close and are not business rate registered  
• Have been severely impacted by the national lockdown which began on Tuesday January 5, but are ineligible for the Local Restrictions Support Grant (LRSG) because they have not been mandated to close. This will include a range of businesses who supply goods and services to the hospitality, retail and leisure sector; businesses supplying services to the visitor economy, such as holiday cottage management companies, and; businesses from the event sector such as caterers and event venues. 
• Businesses with a rateable value of more than £51,000 who were eligible but did not apply for an Additional Restrictions Grant in November. 

*Home based businesses or newly-started businesses which have been excluded from accessing the Self-Employed Income Support Scheme can apply to the ARG fund and do not have to demonstrate ongoing fixed costs. 

Read more about eligibility and the amount of grant support available 

Tim Dwelly, Cornwall Council cabinet portfolio holder for economy, said: “Our priority is those eligible businesses which have not yet been able to claim any other grant, or the Self-Employed Income Support Scheme.  

“We want to make a difference to the Cornish businesses hardest hit by loss of income because of lockdown, who have also struggled because of a lack of targeted Government support. We know many of them have fallen between the cracks and we want to put that right.”

Local Restrictions Support Grant 

Cornwall Council continues to pay out vital grant support to businesses affected by changes in tier restrictions and the current national lockdown. The Council was one of the first local authorities in the country to pass on Government grants to Cornwall’s businesses during the lockdown which began in March 2020.

The Council has so far paid out £1.92m to more than 7,500 businesses which had to close when Cornwall moved to Tier 3 restrictions on Boxing Day. And around 12,000 businesses forced to close during the January lockdown will receive their first payments next week under the Local Restrictions Support Grant scheme as well as a Closed Business Lockdown Payment (one off grants of £4,000, £6,000 or £9,000).    

If you received a Local Restrictions Support Grant (LRSG) payment following the November lockdown, you will not need to apply for the LRSG for the current lockdown period or a Closed Business Lockdown Payment. 

Businesses will need to submit an application if they are:    

• Businesses which pay business rates and have been forced to close, but did not apply for the Local Restrictions Support Grants in November 2020, will need to apply for this latest round of Local Restrictions Support Grants and the one-off Closed Business Lockdown Payment (one off grants £4k-£9K)  
• Business rated businesses which were not required to close, but have been severely impacted by the change in tier restrictions on December 26 when Cornwall entered Tier 2 and December 31 when Cornwall entered Tier 3 (December 26 to December 30 and December 31 to January 4). The application form for this grant will be available on our website shortly.  

Read more about coronavirus business support 

News of the forthcoming G7 summit in Cornwall, future councillors’ allowances, and funding for the planned A39 Camelford Bypass were all discussed when Cornwall Council met for the first time in 2021.

Addressing the virtual meeting, Cllr Julian German, leader of the council, expressed his delight at news of the planned visit by world leaders to Carbis Bay in June.

He said: “Colleagues, as you are aware, Cornwall has been chosen to host the G7 Leaders’ summit in June. It's a great opportunity for the government to invest in building back better in Cornwall, to deliver our ambitions of a cleaner, greener, fairer and more inclusive Cornwall.

“We must ensure that Cornish culture, our businesses and the great work we are doing in tackling the ecological and climate crisis are showcased, and that Government gives Cornwall a strong platform to attract inward investment.”

Also on the agenda were councillors allowances following the forthcoming elections, which will see the number of members reduced from 123 to 87.

Councillors considered a report from the Independent Remuneration Panel, which is made up of independent members of the public and does not involve councillors.

The panel does not consider budgets when recommending allowances, but bases its decisions on evidence, including looking at other local authorities and member surveys.

It had recommended that the basic allowance for members should be set at £15,596.99 – an increase from the current £14,472.48 - on the evidence presented to it regarding Councillors workload and responsibilities as community leaders.

However, councillors voted against the proposals by 76 votes to 34.  The existing members allowances scheme will now continue to operate, index linked to the annual pay award for council staff.

Among other items considered by the council was the authority’s capital programme, which included setting aside £6.59m as the council’s potential contribution for the A39 Atlantic Highway (Camelford bypass) scheme.

If the scheme is approved, it will help resolve issues of traffic congestion and air pollution in the North Cornwall town. Camelford has one of the highest levels of air  pollution in Cornwall.

£5.8m was agreed for schemes various schemes that will help to tackle climate change.

You can watch a recording of the meeting by visiting www.cornwall.gov.uk

Young people in Cornwall will be able to access grants to support mental wellbeing thanks to a new grant programme launched by Headstart Kernow, the partnership programme run by Cornwall Council and funded by The National Lottery Community Fund.

Headstart Kernow are working in partnership with the Cornwall Community Foundation (CCF), the Cornish community grants charity, to create and administer the Fund.  In a ground-breaking development, a panel of young people will meet regularly to consider applications to the programme and award the grants.

The pandemic has put additional strain on many young people in Cornwall who were already struggling with their mental health. Social isolation, loss of routine, changes in formal and informal support and uncertainty all threaten the mental wellbeing of young people. Since 2016, Headstart Kernow has been working with schools across the county to build the resilience of young people.

Cornwall Council Cabinet Member for Children and Public Health, Sally Hawken, said, “The guiding principle of Headstart Kernow is that young people with first-hand experience of the issues they face are best placed to shape potential solutions.

“The pandemic has created many additional pressures for young people and the Council is delighted to launch the Young People’s Wellbeing Fund to award grants in support of young people, decided by young people.”

Grants are available from £500 - £2,000 per individual for activities and interventions that make an immediate impact for young people in need of additional support. Applications for individual grants are made through a sponsoring organisation such as a youth group, community group or school. Activities that can be supported include, for example, trying new activities, accessing green spaces and meeting new people through group activity, as well as therapy-based interventions.

Tamas Haydu, Chief Executive of Cornwall Community Foundation, commented, “This is such a challenging time for young people in Cornwall and the Headstart Kernow Fund is a really exciting grant programme that will change young lives. We are delighted to be administering the grant programme for young people in Cornwall and working with the Headstart team.”

Headstart Kernow is part of a national six-year, £67.4 million National Lottery funded programme set up by The National Lottery Community Fund, the largest funder of community activity in the UK. HeadStart aims to explore and test new ways to improve the mental health and wellbeing of young people aged 10 to 16 and prevent serious mental health issues from developing.

Scott Hignett, Head of Funding for HeadStart at The National Lottery Community Fund, said: “This new fund will give young people in Cornwall the opportunity to explore different ways to build their resilience and improve their mental health. Putting young people at the forefront of mental health services is a core part of the HeadStart programme, and the Young People’s Wellbeing Fund is a fantastic example of this.

“Thanks to National Lottery players, Headstart Kernow is providing access to additional support and activities in Cornwall as we continue to feel the impact of the pandemic.”

For information on how community groups, mental health projects and individuals can apply for a grant, please visit the Cornwall Community Foundation website.

Thousands of people have discovered Cornwall Council’s online library service over the last year.

Since the first lockdown began in March, approximately 4,000 people across the county have joined their local library.

Cornwall Library membership allows free access to a huge selection of e-books, e-audio books, online newspapers and magazines, and much more.

When the first lockdown came into force in March 2020 the library service saw a 104% increase in e-book downloads compared to the previous month and a 39% increase in e-audio downloads.

In October the number of free newspaper and magazine downloads reached 60,000 – a 100% rise compared to February.

There are many other free online library resources: library members can research their family history, read a comic, or even learn a foreign language. Details on these and more can be found here.

Cllr Edwina Hannaford, portfolio holder for libraries, said: “It’s great to see so many people in Cornwall have discovered or re-discovered the library, the joy of reading, and the huge mental health benefits associated with it.

“We know that home schooling can be really difficult for both parents and children and having access to online library resources could be a huge help for many families over the coming weeks.”

The Government recognises that libraries provide an ‘essential service’ to local communities. Some libraries in Cornwall are offering click and collect services during lockdown. All covid protocols are adhered to, including the quarantining of books before lending.

Access to public network computers is available in some branches with usage limited to those who are vulnerable and in need.

In line with current Government guidance, where the library building allows, members of the public will not need to go inside to collect their books. Instead reserved items can be collected from the library entrance.

You can see what services your local library is operating here.

If you are not currently a library member, or if your library membership has lapsed, you can sign up to the library service free of charge on the Cornwall Council website here.

 

Story posted January 19, 2021

Cornwall Council and the Cornish Pirates have teamed up to send an important message to residents urging them to ‘stay safe, stay at home’ during lockdown. 

Pirates players Tom Duncan, Robin Wedlake and Jay Tyack all feature in a short video reminding people of all ages to follow the latest public health guidance so we can help stop the spread of Covid-19 in Cornwall. 

Recent public health data shows that more than two thirds of overall Covid cases in Cornwall were registered in the last six weeks, and the virus is spreading fastest in the community among those under 40. 

 

Cornwall Council cabinet member for Children, Wellbeing and Public Health, Sally Hawken, said: “We’re really grateful to the Cornish Pirates for linking up with us to produce this short video. Rugby is such an integral part of sporting life in Cornwall, and I’d like to thank Tom, Robin and Jay for agreeing to take part. 

“Their message is such an important one. The virus is affecting people of all ages and hospitals all over the country, including here in Cornwall, are under immense pressure. 

“If we want to protect our health service and keep our friends and family safe, it’s important we all continue to follow the rules and stay at home – as they say in the video, it’s tough but it’s not forever.” 

Speaking on behalf of the Cornish Pirates, media officer Phil Westren said: “As ever, our players are always keen to respond to help where possible, and at this time the message they express is so very worthy – and especially so because it is being delivered by them as younger members of our community.” 

Director of public health Rachel Wigglesworth said: “I’m grateful to the players for taking part, and for helping us get this vital public health messaging across to residents. The guidance is clear: please stay at home as much as possible and only leave for essential reasons. Follow social distancing rules if you do have to leave your home for essential reasons, and try to minimise your contact with other people to reduce your chances of catching the virus.”

A jet-skier has been ordered to pay towards costs after he admitted speeding and riding without care and caution on Truro River.

On July 10, 2020, Truro Harbour Masters Office received multiple complaints of jet-ski users acting recklessly.

Harbour staff deployed two boats to investigate and located five jet-skiers on the Truro River. The group were warned about their behaviour but they continued to operate at high speed.

Members of the public supplied video footage of the group acting irresponsibly around moored boats.

Joshua Gotts, of Camborne, was subsequently identified as one of the jet-skiers.

In a prosecution brought by Cornwall Council, Gotts appeared at Truro Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, January 13, where he pleaded guilty to four charges; failing to navigate a vessel with care and caution, causing or permitting a vessel to proceed at a speed great than 8 knots above the Turnaware Bar Starboard hand buoy, jet skiing without the written permission of the Harbour Master and failing to proceed with care and caution and at slow speed in or near the small craft mooring areas.

In mitigation, Gotts said he was an experienced jet-skier and that the craft are difficult to handle below 12mph. He added that he was not aware he needed permission from the Truro Harbour Master to use his jet-ski in the area.

Accepting his guilty pleas, the magistrates gave Gotts a 12 month conditional discharge and ordered him to pay £250 (£228 towards the council’s prosecution costs and a £22 victim surcharge).

Councillor Loic Rich, Chair of the Cornwall Council Harbours Board, said: "This prosecution has been brought about thanks to the sterling efforts of our Harbourmaster and Maritime Management, as well as our legal team at Cornwall Council. It is totally unacceptable that some water users behave in this reckless manner. This very easily could have resulted in someone getting seriously hurt or losing their life. 

“Where we have evidence of people behaving irresponsibly on the water, we will take action."

Rob Nolan, cabinet member for Environment and Public Protection, said: “Those who act in this irresponsible manner pose not only a threat to other people, but also to the local wildlife.

“There is an area on the river where water users are permitted to travel at high speeds safely. If you want to go out on the water check the rules, get permission and show some respect to other water users and the local wildlife.”

Story created on 18 January 2021

Cornwall is pioneering a national effort to kickstart the recovery of wildlife and nature, and you can have your say on what is important to you. 

Cornwall was chosen by government as one of only five areas to test the creation of a Nature Recovery Plan before it become a requirement of all areas nationally. Sitting alongside the Climate Change Action Plan, it will guide funding and planning policy by identifying the best opportunities to protect, restore and improve local wildlife. 

By getting involved, residents will be able to shape local priorities on how to best support nature in Cornwall – whether it's wildflowers for pollinators, more trees to fight climate change, more green spaces in our towns, or a habitat or species you’re passionate about. 

Our natural environment is foundational to our health, prosperity, identity and heritage through its diverse features and habitats – from towans to tors, marshland to moorland, and our iconic Chough. It is also central to the fight against climate change and environmental hazards –from flood risks to infectious diseases. 

But nature is in crisis, with 41% of species having declined in the UK since 1970 - and Cornwall reflects that trend. This decline is also speeding up due to climate change. The new plan will set out how Cornwall can tackle this ecological crisis. 

Cllr Rob Nolan, Portfolio Holder for Environment and Public Protection at Cornwall Council, said: “Cornwall Council is committed to tackling the ecological emergency head on through projects like Forest for Cornwall and Making Space for Nature, and this is matched by the incredible ambition of our partners, communities and businesses. I’m proud that Cornwall’s pioneering work to safeguard our natural environment has resulted in this pilot and hope that our residents will have their say on this crucial next step in our transition to a greener Cornwall.” 

Cllr Edwina Hannaford, Portfolio Holder for Neighbourhoods and Climate Change, said: “Taking care of nature will help us move towards our ambitious target to be carbon neutral by 2030.

“We all have a duty to protect the environment and we want residents to have their say over how we do this.”

Lord Robin Teverson, Chair of the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Local Nature Partnership, said: “Our Local Nature Partnership has one overriding aim – to reverse the decline of nature and loss of biodiversity in Cornwall and Scilly. The challenge to halt that decline is a critical one, and all of us need to be a part of the solution. That’s why when putting our plans for nature recovery together, full public engagement is vital.  Get the right plan, and we really can grow nature here in Cornwall and deliver a green recovery.” 

Emma Browning, Partnership Manager of Cornwall’s Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, said: “The Cornwall AONB is committed to nature recovery. It is key that we unite together with land-owners, farmers, businesses and communities as a collaborative network to deliver what is essential to reverse the decline in biodiversity and promote a green recovery. We are all interlinked with nature in various ways, via the direct work in our landscape through to the food we eat. We all need to play a part in the solution, and collectively this is achievable.” 

Residents can have their say on what and where nature matters most to them to help shape the plan until mid-February on the Lets Talk Cornwall website

Story created on 18 January 2021

Exciting plans to extend the community centre in Threemilestone have been granted planning permission by Cornwall Council. 

It is fantastic news for the local community and the Langarth Garden Village project, which has been working with Cornwall Council and other partners to support the village’s plans to extend and upgrade the current community centre as part of a wider programme of community investment projects in the Threemilestone and Highertown area. 

 

At the end of last year Cornwall Council’s Cabinet agreed to provide £500,000 towards the costs of the scheme, enabling the much needed and long awaited project to move forward. Councillors also supported the use of funding from developers’ contributions – known as Section 106 agreements – for the Langarth Garden Village scheme to provide new playing pitches in Threemilestone and carry out improvements to the public realm in the centre of the village.  

Welcoming the decision, Councillor Tim Dwelly, Cornwall Council’s Cabinet Member for Planning and Economy, said: “When Cornwall Council made the decision to take on a proactive role in planning and delivering the new integrated community at Langarth in 2019, one of our key priorities was to ensure that local facilities and services in existing communities such as Threemilestone do not come under pressure as a result of the scheme, and that Langarth supports improvements for existing residents as well as new ones.  

“Improving the community centre a Threemilestone will bring great benefits to Threemilestone, providing more space for community events and enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the building which lies at the heart of the village. 

“I am delighted that planning permission has been granted for the extension and can’t wait to see the exciting vision become reality.” 

While Threemilestone already has a very successful community centre, the hall was built to support around 1,000 people in the 1970s. With a population of more than 4,000 today, and the village continuing to grow, it is no longer big enough to cater for all the organisations which want to use it.  

The building is currently used by the local community for a wide range of sporting, activity, club and other social events. These include education and training courses, local markets, arts and crafts activities, exercise classes, including keep fit and dancing, performances, and a range of contact sports. 

The centre also includes a bar and kitchen which enables people to socialise and host family and other celebrations and events.   

The popularity of the community centre and the rising population in the village means there is a growing waiting list of organisations wanting to use the hall.  There are also currently no public toilets in the village, with the nearest ones in Chacewater, two-and-a-half miles away.  

The plans approved include creating a new entrance foyer with an area for people to wait and shelter from the weather, and a digital information screen, improved access, an additional meeting room and storage space, fully accessible toilets with a 'changing places' facility with hoist, shower, and baby changing facilities. 

The building will have solar panels on the roof to provide green energy, and a COVID-secure air filtration system.  

Work will begin on constructing the first phase in spring 2021, with the Community Centre extension expected to be completed by summer 2021. 

"Following my election as Chair to our village Community Centre some 19 months ago, a review of existing facilities and ‘life expired’ equipment was undertaken, and areas of concern quickly addressed,” said Mike Ashcroft, Chair of the Community Centre Management Committee.   

“This resulted in identifying what was needed to facilitate an ever increasing demand on the centre. An embryonic plan and ‘wish list’ were then developed with the support of various bodies, including the Community Fund, Truro City and Kenwyn Parish Councils and Cornwall Council members and officers. 

“I am super excited to see the commitment to improve the village facilities that will benefit all residents and other users from both within and outside the village. My thanks go to all involved in achieving this much-needed improvement and development of our centre.” 

Further plans for the village include removing the central roundabout, providing more parking spaces to improve access to local businesses and health services and a new pedestrian and cycleway link to connect Threemilestone village directly to the new Langarth Garden Village. All of this will be complemented by new green spaces, landscaping and tree planting. 

More information about the Council’s investment in projects in Threemilestone is available on the Langarth Garden Village website where you can also view a short film about the project.  

Story created on 18 January 2021

Cornwall Council and GLL are calling on central Government to provide additional funding to protect the future of Cornwall’s leisure centres. 

Since Cornwall Council and GLL agreed a supplier relief package of £4.2 million in September last year, the industry has been further hit by two more lockdowns. 

The current closure will have an even greater impact on leisure centres, coming during the peak period for trade in a normal year. 

A national request has been submitted to the Treasury on behalf of leisure providers, the Local Government Association and Sports England of the need for support of £600m.  

However, to date the government has launched a new fund of only £100m to cover the period from December 2020 to March 2021. 

Councils and suppliers are in the process of submitting complex bids requesting a share of the money. 

Adam Paynter, deputy leader of Cornwall Council, said: “We are calling on Westminster to put in place a credible sector-based support package that covers the whole period of the disruption dating back to last March. 

“We are applying for a share of the £100m fund but this is simply not enough. The Government must do more to protect our leisure centres.” 

James Curry, GLL’s Head of Service in Cornwall, said: “The latest lockdown couldn’t have come at a worse time for the leisure industry. January is traditionally one of our busiest months as people commit to getting healthier and fitter for the summer and re-building our membership figures, which had already been significantly eroded by the pandemic, is a matter of real concern.
 
“We continue to work closely with Cornwall Council and support them in their bid for a fair share of the £100m National Leisure Relief Fund. Government assistance is vital if our industry is to survive the current crisis and, as COVID has proved, public health and fitness have never been more important.
 
“GLL is a not-for-profit social enterprise and we are doing everything we can to help our local communities. That’s why we are offering a wide range of exercise classes free of charge online via our Better app and why we are actively lobbying for government funding to help keep our leisure centres going once they can be re-opened.”

Cornwall Council has announced £13m worth of building contracts for three new workspace centres that will grow Cornwall’s economy and support the creation of jobs in Penzance, Liskeard and Hayle. 

The three workspaces will generate much needed economic activity during their construction phase and open new job, work placement and training opportunities for the local workforce. 

Ultimately, these new developments will play a key role in regenerating the town centres and boosting the local economy by enabling business growth, job creation and training opportunities. 

Two of the developments will be supporting the fast-growing creative sector – already of huge importance to the economy of Cornwall.    

• The Penzance Creative Cluster will be a new 1,500m2 facility at Causewayhead which will provide up to 30 modern studios and workspaces for creative enterprises.   

• At Liskeard Cattle Market, the new workspace development is part of the larger regeneration programme which will transform the towns old cattle market site, which is partly derelict and under-used since the closure of the livestock market in 2017. 

The third scheme is a 1,800m2 extension to the Hayle Marine Renewables Business Park, building on the success of the first phase which completed in 2015 and has reached full occupancy. 

New workspaces 'enable creation of around 100 jobs'

Tim Dwelly, Cornwall Council’s portfolio holder for Culture, Economy and Planning said: “These new workspaces will bring business and jobs to three areas and this is crucial in terms of the challenges our towns are facing. This package of investment is a key part of our Economic Recovery Plan for Cornwall. 

“The new workspaces will enable the creation of around 100 new jobs in sectors which are fast growing and at the core of Cornwall’s Local Industrial Strategy, ultimately increasing footfall to the town centres and supporting existing local businesses.”  

Delivery of these transformational projects will be supported by an investment of £8.7m being sought from the European Regional Development Fund and £7.7m of match-funding from Cornwall Council, as part of the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Growth Programme.

Cornwall Councillor for Penzance Central Cornelius Olivier said: “This is a positive step to support our creative industries and provide opportunities to make Penzance, and Cornwall in general, less dependent on the visitor economy.  The design and the quality of the build of the Penzance Creative Cluster will make this a welcome development for our town.” 

Sally Hawken, Cornwall Councillor for Liskeard East and Chair of the Liskeard Cattle Market Working Group said: “The timetable for the demolition of the old livestock market is now underway, supported by funding from the Government’s Growth Deal Fund.  This next stage in the transformation of this important Liskeard town centre site is a boost for our local community and our economy.”

John Pollard Cornwall Councillor for Hayle North said: “The Hayle Marine Renewables Business Park was the first investment on the newly remodelled North Quay and set the benchmark for the major developments that have followed. Its success as a focus for development and employment in this area will continue with the extension and I thank the officers of Cornwall Council who have initiated and led this major boost for the town.” 

Each workspace will be built to BREEAM ‘Excellent’ standard and will minimise carbon emissions during both construction and operation. 

Completion of the three new workspace schemes is expected in Summer 2022 and once operational, they are projected to add more than £3.7m annually to Cornwall’s economy. 

Where are the contracts advertised?

View the contract on GOV.UK

View the contract on Tenders Electronic Daily

 

 

 

 

Support is available for anyone experiencing mental health difficulties on Blue Monday – or any other time of the year. 

This is the message from Cornwall Council’s Public Health team and its NHS partners who are reminding residents that they do not have to deal with their issues alone. 

It comes on the third Monday in January (January 18 2021), said to be the saddest day of the year due to a combination of bad weather, long nights and the post-Christmas comedown.  

With the nation in lockdown, this year’s Blue Monday could be an especially low point for many people. 

Statistics suggest that the number of people experiencing possible anxiety and/or depression in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly has roughly doubled since the pandemic began.  

Concerns focused on finances, the health of family members, fears around catching the virus, isolation and loneliness, and uncertainty about the future.  

In response, Cornwall Council and its partners across the health and social care system have pulled together a range of materials including guides, web links, phone apps, z-cards for wallets and crucial information and contact details for anyone who finds themself in crisis.  

Many can be found on our webpages and there is a list of other links below.  

Support is being offered virtually as well as face-to-face (when restrictions allow), with targeted work going on in high-risk groups and communities. Initiatives include social prescribing at GP practices, a mobile crisis lorry run by charity Valued Lives, and expansion of debt management and mental health advice and support via Citizens Advice Cornwall and the Pentreath mental health charity, under the Mhend project. 

More on Mhend (Mental Health Employment Needs and Debt advice), which is aimed at helping the most vulnerable communities, can be found on the Pentreath website and on our media releases area. 

Dr Richard Sharpe, public health advanced practitioner at Cornwall Council specialising in mental health, said:  

“It is crucial that people know help and support are available if they find themselves struggling with their mental health. 

“Feedback from across our communities suggests people are feeling more anxious but may not be coming forward for help and support with their wellbeing. There is also evidence that some people who are already known to mental health services are attending with more severe symptoms which are requiring more intensive support.  

“I would urge people to follow the Five Ways to Wellbeing, listed below, and generally to take time to relax, eat well, stay hydrated, and maintain a healthy and active lifestyle that includes good quality regular sleep patterns. We have also provided a number of links below if you need more specific help and support with your mental wellbeing.” 

The Five Ways to Wellbeing are:  

1. Connect – Lockdown or self-isolation doesn’t mean you can’t stay in touch with friends and loved-ones through social media, email, facetime/video calling or a good old-fashioned phone call.   

2. Be active – Staying active is vital for your physical and mental health, and lockdown doesn’t mean this is off limits. Check out the Healthy Cornwall website for ideas.  

3. Keep learning – Trying a new hobby or learning something new is a great way to keep the mind active so why not learn a musical instrument, try your hand at photography or become a crossword expert?  

4. Give - Supporting vulnerable people and/or volunteering can help you make new friends as well as make a huge difference in your community. For more information visit the Volunteer Cornwall website.  

5. Take notice – Try to be mindful of your environment and make the time to get as much sunlight, fresh air and nature as you can, while still sticking to the rules.  

  

Cllr Sally Hawken, Cornwall Council’s Portfolio Holder for Children, Wellbeing and Public Health, said:  

“It’s OK to not be OK, and no one has to face things alone – this is our message to people. 

“Being worried in these incredibly difficult times is completely understandable and being in lockdown for the third time means it is more likely people will experience feelings such as anxiety, loneliness and being overwhelmed.   

“But we want everyone to know that help and support is there so please take the time to check out what’s available. This could help you improve your own mental wellbeing as well as the mental health of other people in your community.”  

Tim Francis, head of joint strategic commissioning for mental health and learning disability at NHS Kernow, said:  

“We are reaching out to even more people with targeted schemes. This includes people in our farming and fishing communities as well as those in our more rural towns and villages.  

“Providers from – statutory, third and voluntary sectors are collaborating to tackle the impact of the pandemic to make sure people can access the support they need.”   

Dr Yonette Hassell, clinical service and strategy lead for Outlook South West services, which are part of Cornwall Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, said:  

“At Outlook South West we are aware that many in our community are experiencing worry and low mood for the first time as their day to day lives have changed in light of the covid-19 pandemic.  

“The guided self-help and courses that we offer at Outlook South West provide strategies to help you get your life back on track. Working with our clinicians you can learn to manage your worry and low mood.” 

 

Further information for anyone struggling with their mental health:  

• 24/7 NHS mental health response line for support and advice: Call free on 0800 038 5300, any time day or night if you are worried about your own or someone else’s mental health. The team behind our 24/7 open access telephone response line will listen to you and determine how best to help.  

• A range of mental wellbeing guides are available on our mental health webpages. They cover everything from childhood through to older age, pregnancy to suicidal thoughts. 

• Outlook South West, which is part of Cornwall Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, has a range of talking therapy services available to people aged 16 and above in Cornwall who experience mild to moderate worry, anxiety and low mood. Outlook South West offers courses (Stress Buster, Finding Yourself Again), guided self-help with clinicians via telephone, video and digital platforms (SilverCloud), and Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) appointments. You can refer yourself to Outlook South West by calling on 01208 871905 or completing an online referral form.  

• Cornwall Partnership NHS Foundation Trust has 12 free online self-help courses that anyone can take from a platform called ‘SilverCloud’. 

• Charities including Valued Lives, Pentreath, and Mind contain a wealth of information aimed at helping people with mental health difficulties.  

• For tips, support and advice on all things health-related visit the Healthy Cornwall website.

• For mental health safety plans and a list of Apps to support you with your mental health, visit our online mental health safty planning information

• If you are in crisis and need support then contact your GP or NHS Direct on 111. Other support available includes:  

• Valued Lives – 01209 901438  

• Samaritans – 116 123  

• SANE – 0845 767800  

• Papyrus – for young adults – 0800 0684141  

• CALM – for men – 0800 585858  

• Childline – for under 19s – 0800 1111  

• Community Mental Health Team – 0845 2077711 

• Covid-19: Psychological First Aid: A free online training course aimed at frontline or essential workers and volunteers providing support to others.  It explores the psychological impact of the Covid-19 pandemic and what you can do to help other people cope. Access the course for free on the FutureLearn website. 

Organisations across Cornwall have welcomed the news that the Duchy is to host the international G7 leaders’ summit in June and pledge an event that will leave a lasting social and economic legacy to benefit all of Cornwall’s residents. 

The major three-day international event will see leaders from the UK, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan and the US, as well as invited leaders from Australia, India, and South Korea attend.

The event will host world leaders at Carbis Bay, with neighbouring St Ives and other sites in Cornwall, such as Falmouth, hosting international delegates and media – with organisers determined to make this an event for all residents in Cornwall to experience and share.

Julian German, Leader of Cornwall Council, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity to showcase the best of Cornwall and the UK on the world stage, and to build our strength and prosperity at home.

“For those reasons we are determined that this event delivers a lasting legacy for our residents, inspires our young people and shows how we can play our part in bringing the world together after the unprecedented challenges of the pandemic – and bringing together all parts of the UK together, leaving no-one and nowhere behind.

“We want a lasting legacy that maximises inward investment, translating our moment on the global stage into trade. A legacy that helps Cornwall bounce forward and make its full contribution to the country’s ambitions in areas like space and satellite, floating offshore wind and other sources of clean energy, and globally significant geo-resources including lithium to power our future.”

Chief Constable Shaun Sawyer QPM, of Devon & Cornwall Police, said: “I am delighted that Cornwall will be hosting this landmark event for the United Kingdom in an area that is not only one of the safest in the country, but also combines breath-taking scenery and innovative businesses with exceptional local hospitality.

“The event will be a real boost for our communities and especially our young people. It provides an opportunity for all my colleagues within Devon and Cornwall Police to demonstrate our operational excellence and world class policing skills on a global stage.

“We are excited to be playing our part working with and supporting our partners to deliver a safe and secure G7 summit. We have been preparing for this event for several months, including speaking with colleagues who have managed similar events, so we can ensure that we continue to effectively serve our local communities in the run up to, during and after the event.”

Visit Cornwall estimates a total economic impact of the Summit for the County of £50m, including both the immediate benefits of the Summit and related events, and projected tourism growth over the next five years.

Malcolm Bell, Chief Executive of Visit Cornwall said: “Cornwall has been voted the best holiday region in the UK for 10 out of the last 11 years in the British Travel Award but is little known to many countries around the world.

“The G7 Leaders’ summit will shine a spotlight on our very special place and the worldwide exposure is promotion we could never buy.

“It will showcase the beauty of Cornwall and provide an opportunity to highlight our heritage, culture and the connections to each country, which will help drive increased numbers of international visitors to Cornwall over the next decade.”

Mark Duddridge, Chair of the Local Enterprise Partnership, said: “Cornwall’s economy is quickly evolving into one of huge significance to the challenges of the time most notably in the delivery of clean energy from our unique geology and location.

“Underpinned by our digital connectivity and creative expertise our traditional industries are developing their offer to deliver more to their customers whilst supporting the recovery of our climate and ecology.

“We welcome the opportunity to showcasing the new Cornwall to visitors from around the World and sharing our excitement for the changes that are now happening around us.”

Peter Andrew MBE, Chair of Corserv Group, said: “The Corserv Group is delighted to have been asked to support the logistical arrangements to welcome the G7 Summit to Cornwall – a fantastic opportunity to raise the profile of our beautiful Duchy.

"Cormac Highways and Environment and Cornwall Airport Newquay continue to work closely with the organising authorities to ensure that the event runs smoothly in June. The Cornwall Development Company will be working hard with partners over this period to secure a lasting legacy in terms of inward investment.

"Over the coming months many of our staff will become involved in the logistical arrangements and we are committed to ensure that the event is a great success for Cornwall and see it shine on the world stage.”

Published on January 16, 2021

Cornwall Council is already providing vital grant support to businesses affected by the tier restrictions and the latest national lockdown which came into force on January 5, 2021. 

We’ve already paid grants to pubs that don’t sell food and rely on just drink sales and we’ve also been able to pay around 7,500 businesses who were closed when Cornwall was placed in Tier 3 (31 December – 04 January). 

Another 11,500 businesses forced to close in the latest lockdown from 05 January 2021 will receive payments next week. These are businesses  who  received Local Restriction Support Grants in November and will now automatically be paid the latest Local Restriction Support Grants and one off Closed Business Lockdown Payments (one off grants of £4,000, £6,000 and £9,000).   

New discretionary grant scheme 

The Council yesterday received confirmation of funding from Government for new discretionary grants.  The Additional Restrictions Grant scheme will see up to £11.5 million available for businesses in Cornwall who are not eligible for other forms of financial support but have been forced to close or are severely impacted during the third coronavirus lockdown from 05 January 2021. 

Our policy for this Additional Restrictions Grant (ARG) scheme and the application form on who will be eligible is being put in place and the application form and full details of the policy will be available on the Council’s website www.cornwall.gov.uk/BusinessSupportGrant on Wednesday 20 January 2021.  

Cornwall Council cabinet member for the economy Tim Dwelly said:  “As before our priority is to help businesses who have not been able to claim other grants or funds. This includes those who are  excluded from the self-employed income support scheme.This could be due to them being set-up as a limited company and/or being a new business.”  

Applications will also be encouraged from a range of businesses such as food and drink producers and distributors, who, while not forced to close, have been severely affected because they supply goods and services to the hospitality, retail and leisure sector which are closed. 

Cornwall Council also seeks to support businesses in the events sector such as caterers or event venues and other businesses that supply goods or services to parts of the economy that have been shut down.   

Businesses with a rateable value of more than £51,000 who did not apply for the Additional Restrictions Grant in November may also be eligible to apply this time around. 

Tim adds: “We’re particularly pleased we were able to make grants of £25,000 to larger pubs, hotels and hospitality in the summer.  This new discretionary grant will remain available for others in a similar situation who have not yet had a chance to apply." 

"These places employ many people and buy goods and services from many businesses in Cornwall and we want to help them survive this crisis” 

The other instances of where businesses will need to apply (apart from the ARG scheme) are 

• Businesses which pay business rates, have been forced to close, but did not apply for the Local Restrictions Support Grants in November 2020, will need to apply for this latest round of Local Restrictions Support Grants and the one off Closed Business Lockdown Payment (one off grants £4k-£9K) 

• Business rated businesses which were not required to close, but have been severely impacted by the change in tier restrictions on December 26 when Cornwall entered Tier 2 and December 31 when Cornwall entered Tier 3 (December 26 to December 30 and December 31 to January 4).  

The application forms for these grants will be posted on the website as soon as possible. 

www.cornwall.gov.uk/BusinessSupportGrant  

 

Story posted January 15 2021

 

Cornwall Council will suspend parking charges in all of its car parks from Saturday (January 16 2021) until the end of the current national lockdown, as part of efforts to further limit the spread of coronavirus and to support residents. 

The move will mean that some civil enforcement officers and back room staff, due to a reduced service, can be redeployed to support the Council’s Covid-19 response, as well as help residents who rely on on-street parking at home, or live in resident only parking zone areas.   

As many people return to home working arrangements in response to the latest national lockdown, there has been an increase in the number of vehicles parked on residential roads and residents unable to find a parking space near their homes. They will now have the option to park for free in a Council car park.   

Councillor Geoff Brown, Cornwall Council cabinet portfolio holder for transport, said: “We are all being asked to stay at home where possible and we want to lead by example, by doing all we can to reduce the risk of spreading the virus.  

“The daily operation of our 133 charging car parks requires staff to carry out regular patrols and security officers to collect money from the machines. Given the current lockdown, and the Council’s key role in responding to the pandemic locally, we have a duty to keep our staff safe, as well as ensure all efforts are focussed on dealing with the response - and subsequent recovery - from Covid-19.”     

 

Story posted 15 January 2021

Cornwall Council will provide free school meals over the February half term after the Department for Education told schools yesterday (14th January) they would not be providing funding.

The council will use money from the COVID Winter Grant Scheme to feed over 15,000 young people, who are currently accessing the scheme in Cornwall.

Schools will be provided with funding of up to £15 per eligible child to support their local families.

Cabinet member for Children, Public Health and Wellbeing, Councillor Sally Hawken said: “The important contribution a healthy, nutritious school lunch makes towards children’s wider wellbeing cannot be underestimated.

“Like the rest of the country, the effect of the coronavirus pandemic in Cornwall is profound. Many families have seen their financial circumstances negatively impacted by lockdown, including a significant number working in Cornwall’s tourist and leisure industry.”

One of Cornwall Council’s key strategic priorities is to have fewer children living in poverty, and our plans aim to address many of the adverse outcomes associated with child poverty; including strengthening families and communities and raising the aspiration and achievement of children and young people.

Since 2018 Cornwall Council has a run a programme called filling the holiday gap, which provided small grants to community groups and volunteer organisations to provide activities and food for vulnerable young people. During the pandemic the scheme was used to provide vouchers to those that missed the deadline for the government vouchers.

Councillor Hawken continued: “There was an all-party parliamentary report in 2017 that looked at the impact of the summer holidays, where children couldn’t access school meal provision. It found

found that children were returning to school in a worse educational, health and developmental state than that in which they had left in the summer. 

“With that in mind, we were concerned about the impact of the pandemic on those families already struggling here in Cornwall.”

The COVID Winter Grant Scheme, which is worth £1.8 million, has been given to the council to support households across Cornwall.  The application process and funding criteria will be announced in the coming days. 

For more information on the scheme or to register for free school meals please visit our website.