Cornwall Council Wants Your Say on Kernewek’s Future

Could the language you grew up seeing on welcome signs become a fixture in classrooms, civic buildings, and the global stage? Cornwall Council is asking residents that very question, and the answers will shape Kernewek for decades to come.

A Six Week Window to Have Your Say

Cornwall Council has launched a public consultation on its new Cornish Language Strategy, giving people across the Duchy the chance to help shape the future of Kernewek. The draft strategy was published today (8th May) on the Let’s Talk Cornwall website, with the consultation running from 8th May to 19th June.

Feedback gathered during the six week window will inform the final strategy, which is due to be published this summer.

What the Strategy Sets Out

The draft strategy describes Kernewek as a “forever language” which is spoken, valued and visible for generations to come. It focuses on four work strands: learning, resources, community and culture, and Kernewek in civic life.

Together, these strands aim to strengthen community pride and wellbeing, support skills development and new technology, and help Cornwall play a confident role on the global stage. The strategy also positions the Cornish language as a catalyst for international connections, opening doors to new cultural and economic opportunities.

A Language on the Rise

Kernewek is currently experiencing a remarkable resurgence. Its presence in everyday life would have been hard to imagine a generation ago, turning up on buses and welcome signs, in pubs and theatres, on the BBC, and in a growing number of primary schools.

The language has also featured in BAFTA winning films and UK brands, reflecting a shift in how Kernewek is valued and understood both at home and beyond Cornwall.

What the Council Says

Councillor Sarah Preece, portfolio holder for Tourism, Localism and Planning at Cornwall Council, said: “Cornish is a beautiful and expressive language that plays an important role in strengthening Cornwall’s identity and sense of place.

“It gives people a strong feeling of belonging and connection, to Cornwall’s history and to one another.

“We’re really excited to share this strategy, which sets out how we will celebrate, support and grow our unique culture in the years ahead.

“By working together with communities and partners we can help ensure Cornish continues to be part of everyday life, now and for generations to come.”

Residents who want to take part can read the draft strategy and submit their feedback at Let’s Talk Cornwall before the consultation closes on 19th June.