Cornwall Council Cabinet Discusses Devolution Plans and Parking Changes

Plans that could bring more decision-making powers to Cornwall were at the centre of discussions when Cornwall Council’s Cabinet met in Truro on Wednesday 18th March.

The meeting also covered proposed changes to off-street parking across the county, including new motorhome charges at selected car parks, and an investment plan linked to the newly created Kernow Industrial Growth Fund.

Devolution plans outlined

Council leader Cllr Leigh Frost introduced proposals for a Cornwall Foundation Strategic Authority, describing the report as the council’s outline plan for discussions with Government on further devolution for Cornwall.

Cabinet members heard that the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government wrote to the council in November stating that the Government was willing to work with Cornwall on an exceptional basis to designate the authority as a Single Foundation Strategic Authority.

If agreed, this would allow more powers to be transferred from Westminster to Cornwall without the need to combine with other council areas to form a larger regional authority.

The plan sets out a framework for how such changes could work. Areas highlighted include housing, the economy and skills, transportation, the environment and rural affairs, as well as culture and language.

Speaking after the meeting, Leigh Frost said:

“I am so pleased that the Government is recognising Cornwall as a Celtic Nation in its own right, and our unique position to be able to help deliver against the UK’s national priorities.

“The fact we are different makes it so important for us to be able to make our own choices when it comes to those key decisions needed as we build an economy fit for the 21st Century moving forwards.

“There is a long way to go, and we will not say yes to any deal unless it is right for Cornwall. Our ask from Government is ambitious, as it need to be to match the ambitions we have for creating a better Cornwall for one and all.”

Investment plan for Kernow Industrial Growth Fund

Cabinet members also reviewed the investment plan for the Kernow Industrial Growth Fund.

Cllr Tim Dwelly, portfolio holder for economic regeneration and growth, told the meeting that the plan focuses on areas such as clean energy, marine innovation and critical minerals.

Tim explained that the investment would be used to help attract private sector funding and unlock shovel-ready investment opportunities to support economic growth across Cornwall.

Motorhome parking charges proposed

The Cabinet also considered the Off-Street Parking Order for 2026.

This includes plans to introduce charges for motorhomes at ten car parks across Cornwall. The proposal follows a trial at the Crescent car park in Bude.

Locations where charges are proposed include Watergate Bay near Newquay, Marazion Station, Gyllyngvase Coach Park in Falmouth and Wheal Leisure at Perranporth. The changes are being introduced at sites where requests have been made for such charges.

The full meeting can be watched again through Cornwall Council’s webcast service.