Cornwall Council Leader Seeks Clarification on Future of Local Growth Funding

Cornwall Council Leader Leigh Frost has written to Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, asking for urgent clarity on whether the government plans to end vital Local Growth Funding for Cornwall after March 2026.

The letter follows concerns that recent government announcements suggest future growth investment could be focused solely on mayoral city regions, raising fears that Cornwall might be excluded from long-term funding critical to its economy.

A Clear Question to Government

In his letter, Leigh asks directly:
“Are you planning to phase Cornwall out of structural local growth funding?”

He warns that if the government does intend to remove this support, “the consequences would be severe.”

“It would represent a missed opportunity for this government to choose to work together with Cornwall to continue the huge strides made through the local growth funds over the past two decades in transforming our economy,” he said.

Risk of Reversing Progress

Leigh cautions that shifting to a two-tier model of funding could set Cornwall back, particularly as the region continues to face some of the lowest wages, highest levels of in-work poverty, and deepest structural economic challenges in the country.

“Progress over the past two decades has been achieved thanks to consistent, predictable, place-based investment,” he said. “Removing that investment would risk reversing hard-won progress, damaging confidence and deterring private investment.”

Cornwall’s Track Record

The council leader highlighted Cornwall’s proven success in making use of funding effectively—building skills, creating jobs, and developing high-value industries, particularly in clean energy and critical minerals.

But he warned: “We cannot build a stronger economy without continued, long-term support.”

Call Backed by Council’s Investment Lead

Tim Dwelly, Cornwall Council’s Portfolio Holder for Economic Regeneration and Investment, has backed Leigh’s call for government transparency.

“We want to know if ministers really are planning to phase Cornwall out of future growth funding,” said Tim.

“That would be an extraordinary decision, ignoring the fact that Cornwall has consistently delivered value for public investment and has huge potential to drive growth, innovations and skills not just locally, but nationally.

“Like Councillor Frost, I am asking government to confirm its intentions – Cornwall deserves a fair chance, not to be quietly pushed aside.”

“Cornwall Deserves a Fair Settlement”

Leigh finished by saying:
“Cornwall deserves a fair, reliable settlement on an equivalent basis to mayoral city regions that recognises its unique needs and potential and allows us to continue delivering value for public investment.”

“But we will not sit quietly while our communities and industries are treated as an afterthought.”

📎 Full letter from Councillor Leigh Frost to Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer: