Published: 11th May 2020

We, amongst others, were invited to discuss the proposed government investment in St Ives that could amount to £25m. The Secretary of State for Communities, the Rt Hon Robert Jenrick visited St Ives to look at which areas of investment for the future could be most beneficial.

Our projects at Old Vicarage Flats and the Old Town Fire Station could be suitable town centre community developments that make a difference in both social and economic terms.

St Ives has a very short period to develop a vision and Town Investment Plan to potentially access up to £25m for what are called ‘interventions’. The object being is to deliver ‘’economic productivity through urban regeneration, planning, and land use, skills and enterprise infrastructure and connectivity’’.

If successful, St Ives will enter into a Town Deal with the government, with the overall aim of leveling up St Ives local economy, bringing opportunities for everyone who lives and works in St Ives, providing quality employment and real aspiration for all. This will be wrapped in a circular and green economy approach – meeting the needs of all within safe environmental limits – and making St Ives ready for the challenges of the future. St Ives needs to embrace change for the town and think differently in order to put together a successful bid!

The Town Deal now has a local Board, chaired by Sarah Stevens and a Project Lead; Lucy Davis. There are a number of sub-groups that are open to encourage participation. The sub-groups are:

• Housing
• Business and Finance
• Food and Fisheries
• Green energy and transport
• Culture and Heritage
• Digital and connectivity
• Sustainable Tourism
• Sport and Well-being
• Young People, Skills, and Training