The Sustainable Growth and Place Overview and Scrutiny Committee of Cornwall Council met on Tuesday 16 June 2026 to discuss a range of issues including the Evergreen Fund, the future of Newquay Airport, and the Council's Farms Estate. The committee also reviewed and approved its draft Work Programme for the upcoming year.

Evergreen Fund and Economic Regeneration

The committee received an update on the Evergreen Fund, a key initiative aimed at supporting town centre viability, enabling community-based schemes, and providing commercial funding for business expansion. Councillor Donnithorne, Chair of the Committee, sought clarification on the fund's principles, with the Portfolio Holder for Economic Regeneration and Investment explaining that funding would not be available until April 2027. Concerns were raised about the potential for a shift towards a private sector, investment-led model and the absence of an investment panel for scrutinising financial considerations. The Portfolio Holder assured members that affordable housing, which includes social housing, remains a priority, with a commitment to using Council-owned land for local residents. Discussions also touched upon the need to support residents struggling with living costs and access to suitable housing, with a suggestion that detailed discussions on affordable housing be directed to the Portfolio Holder for Housing.

Newquay Airport Challenges

Significant concerns were raised regarding the financial situation at Newquay Airport. The Chairman noted the complexities and requested an update on cost-cutting measures, with the Portfolio Holder explaining a £1.4 million shortfall due to rising operating costs. Cabinet was awaiting a report on the airport's operational efficiency, as continued cost increases are unsustainable. Efforts are underway to generate additional investment and income from surrounding land. A study is expected to recommend necessary changes, and the operating company has indicated potential expenditure reductions. While changes to the airport's operation are anticipated, no firm proposals have been confirmed. The committee was informed that a report on operational efficiency would be available for the July meeting. The Managing Director of the airport is leaving, but the management structure remains unchanged, and a recruitment exercise will be undertaken. The committee also heard about potential investor interest and the need to improve profitability through growth markets, cargo operations, and cost reduction.

Government Planning Reforms and Tourism Tax

The committee discussed the Government's Planning Reforms, with a Member expressing concern about the impact on democracy and the handling of controversial planning applications. The Portfolio Holder for Tourism, Localism and Planning advised that changes to delegation arrangements and committee structures are being implemented, with an increase in officer-led decisions for less complex cases. The fundamental planning policy would remain unchanged, and consultation processes, including engagement with parish councils, would continue. The Portfolio Holder also addressed concerns about a potential tourism tax, stating that work is ongoing to secure Single Foundation Strategic Authority status, which would grant elected Members the power to decide on introducing such a levy. Consultation at this stage was deemed premature, with wider consultation planned once the necessary powers are in place.

Homes Cornwall and Housing Affordability

Questions were raised about the Homes Cornwall initiative, with a Member seeking clarity on timeframes and site locations. The Portfolio Holder for Housing confirmed that some sites are capable of being delivered quickly, and priority would be given to those identified for earlier development. Concerns were reiterated about the definition of affordable housing and the need to support those on the housing register, with current delivery rates suggesting it could take up to 300 years to meet demand. The Portfolio Holder acknowledged the challenges and highlighted that 228 social rent homes were delivered in the previous year, with officers tasked with reducing the housing register and use of emergency accommodation by half. The committee also discussed the viability of the Home for All project, with a decision on financial challenges faced by developers and Community Infrastructure Levy and Section 106 contributions expected in July 2026.

Council's Farms Estate Inquiry

The committee reviewed the findings and recommendations of the Task and Finish Group's inquiry into the Council's Farms Estate and Service. Key points included the need to improve financial performance, maintain the overall size of the estate, allocate 100 acres for affordable housing, and set out clear findings and recommendations. The report will be submitted to Cabinet for endorsement. Discussions highlighted the importance of implementation, balancing budget requirements with delivery aims, and increasing engagement with key groups. Concerns were raised about the benefits to the wider Cornish community and the measurement of the impact of sustainable food production initiatives. The estate comprises approximately 10,500 acres, with housing potential largely constrained by planning. The committee agreed that the Council should retain a Farms Estate of around 10,000 acres in the longer term, with the service continuing to be delivered in-house. Recommendations included a clearer progression assessment policy for tenants, targeted diversification on marginal land, and a focus on reinvesting revenue surpluses back into the estate. The committee resolved to note and endorse the findings and recommendations, and for officers to review and update the Farms Strategy operating business management plan.

Committee Work Programme 2026/27

The committee discussed and approved its draft Work Programme for 2026/27. Proposed items include the Airport, highways, the Local Plan, bus networks, the road defect programme, the Evergreen Fund, and parking charges and tariffs. The importance of aligning discussion topics throughout the year was emphasised, with a Member noting the limited reference to employment in the draft programme and advocating for equal consideration of job creation. The committee also discussed the potential for pre-decision scrutiny of Housing Viability, with a suggestion for an informal committee session due to the potentially controversial nature of some discussions. The possibility of inviting the Chair of the Cornwall Growth Board to a future meeting was also considered. Amendments to the Work Programme will be determined by the Chair in consultation with the Vice-Chair, Senior Responsible Officer, and Democratic Services Lead.