The Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly Economic Prosperity Board met on Thursday 29 January 2026 to review the performance of the Good Growth Shared Prosperity Fund (SPF) programme and consider funding for clean energy and decarbonisation initiatives. The Board noted the significant positive impact of the SPF programme, which has supported over 900 projects since 2022.

Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Good Growth SPF Programme Performance and Commissioning Report

The Board received an update on the performance of the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Good Growth Shared Prosperity Fund (SPF) programme. The report highlighted the programme's significant achievements since 2022, including supporting over 900 projects that have enhanced businesses, skills, communities, and the environment. Forecast benefits include the creation of 1,765 jobs, safeguarding 714 jobs, and delivering over 30,000 training opportunities. The programme has also leveraged £83 million in additional investment, enhanced natural spaces equivalent to 60 football pitches, refurbished 142 community hubs, and reduced greenhouse gas emissions.

A recent social media and bus stop advertising campaign was noted for its success in engaging residents, with the highest interaction rates in South East Cornwall. The Board also celebrated the Good Growth Team's win of the Most Innovative Project of the Year award from the Institute of Economic Development for their embedding of clean and inclusive growth principles.

The SPF programme is nearing its end, with projects contracted to complete by 31 March 2026. Although the government has offered an optional time extension to 30 September 2026, this is without additional funding, meaning the programme is in its closure phase. The Board discussed programme closure options and the need for continued project adherence to grant funding agreements.

Discussions during this agenda item included congratulations and thanks to the Good Growth Team for their work, and a welcome for the social media campaign update. It was suggested that future reporting should include clearer geographical analysis of outputs, such as job creation and employment quality, to better demonstrate the programme's impact. The Board was informed that lessons learned are being captured and will be part of an independent evaluation due in April 2026. The selection of the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly SPF Programme as one of 34 national case studies for evaluation was highlighted as a positive reflection of its distinctive approach, particularly its use of locally developed Good Growth Principles. Members from the Isles of Scilly expressed a keenness to collaborate with Cornwall Council on future government investment programmes.

The Board resolved to note the Programme Performance Report and requested any additional data or information that it wants to be included in the next quarterly performance report. They also approved the Initiation Form (GG003) for Clean Energy, Decarbonisation and Safer Communities in Appendix 1 to the report.

Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Shared Prosperity Fund Good Growth Programme Funding Decisions (Part 2)

Following the exclusion of the press and public, the Board considered a confidential report seeking approval for specific Good Growth Programme funding decisions. This included further information on project delivery, actions related to the government's extension of the SPF Programme, and steps to ensure no SPF funds were returned to the government at programme end.

The Board considered and debated the recommendations, seeking further information where necessary.

The Board resolved that for Direct Delivery GG0003, up to £4,495,551 for the Application GG003_0001 be approved. Delegated authority was granted to the Head of Economy, in consultation with the Section 151 Officer, to negotiate contract conditions and enter into a funding agreement, including determining the final funding amount within the agreed maximum.