2007 - 2013

The journey so far…The European Regional Development Fund Convergence Programme

Thank youto everyone who helped ERDF Convergence investments transform

ideas into reality. As the Programme closes it is time to look back

and remember our investments : Superfast Broadband : roads :

people : relocating businesses to the region : green technologies

: marine innovations : graduate courses : business growth and

expansion : research and development : new and refurbished

workspace : transport : higher education : business support :

infrastructure improvements : inward investment : regeneration

: heritage & culture...

6 What was Convergence? 10 The three themes 12 DCLG Programme Achievements 14 Making Connections 16 Highlight: Superfast Cornwall & Superfast Business Cornwall 18 Gett ing our region ready 26 Isles of Scilly 32 Investing in Our Future34 Cornwall Innovation38 Higher Education 39 Highlight: Penryn Campus 42 Green & Marine48 Strengthening Business 50 Highlight: Workspace 52 Speculative, bespoke and refurbished workspace55 Regeneration of our cultural heritage 58 Business Support Programmes 70 Our sister fund ESF71 Working to transform Camborne, Pool & Redruth (CPR)75 A selection of case studies

but its achievements have spread across the whole of Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly (C&IoS).

During the Convergence period

investments worked tirelessly towards

transforming the economy of C&IoS.

However, this is still a work in progress

as the journey continues and investments

continue to deliver results well beyond

the end of the Programme. Building

on Objective One and Objective 5b,

Convergence was an economic journey,

who's objective was to establish the

momentum for transforming the economy

to a high value added economy where

knowledge, environment and quality of life

underpin sustainable economic growth.

This book showcases only some of the

diverse investments made during the

Convergence period, the scale of the

Programme is huge, so please visit our

website www.erdfconvergence.org.uk to

fi nd out the latest information and stories

from Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.

6

The Convergence journey started by looking to the future. What would our businesses need to enable growth? Strengthening business was the foundation of the whole Programme. To strengthen business we needed to enable them to become more productive and to create new jobs by trading locally, nationally and internationally. To make this happen we invested heavily in making connections for growth, from the physical such as transport , and preparing for future infrastructure to the digital needs of future business. Once the foundations for working in new ways were in place businesses weren’t left to work alone, business support programmes helped all kinds of businesses to maximise their potential. However, the Convergence Programme wasn’t all about the here and now, it always looked to the future. By investing in the future we helped enable the next generation of people to take advantage of higher education

opportunities which enable a sustainable and home grown research, innovation and knowledge culture to grow within our region. At the same time as investing in the future, we also made sure we brought our heritage and culture up to date by investing in the regeneration of areas which can work towards future economic sustainability. Finally, we made sure our businesses had high quality environments to actually work in, so the creation of workspace was vital, especially within a recession to fi ll the funding gap in the cost of developing workspace. The site and situation of Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly is both an advantage and disadvantage to our economy, so fi nally, and crucially a huge investment into digital with superfast broadband helped to tie all the diff erent themes together to allow our location to no longer be a hindrance to future business growth.

7

The Programme objective was...

To establish the momentum for transforming

the economy to a high value added economy

where knowledge, environment and quality

of life underpin sustainable economic growth.

What did Cornwall and Isles of Scilly receive?

European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) was used to support economic and social cohesion. Investment priorities included research and innovation, digital economy, low carbon economy and support for SMEs.

European Social Fund (ESF) supported workers, young people and those looking for work. It helped people fi nd jobs, get bett er jobs and ensured equality of opportunity for all.

€458 million€196 million

8

1

With €458 million to invest into C&IoS, ERDF was split into three funding themes to enable both public and private partners to work with the funds so the money could reach its full potential to support economic and social cohesion². To achieve this we identifi ed the challenges we faced:

Fluctuating job stability and skills gaps

C&IoS had a long history of tourism and retail based businesses. These provide employment for the region, but limited opportunities and low wages combined with fl uctuating job stability. Skills gaps – from a historical lack of Higher Education provision, research and innovation opportunities – also put our region at a disadvantage.

Physical and digital infrastructure

Our beautiful but remote location may be an advantage for our tourism industry, but it’s oft en been a disadvantage for our businesses – both in terms of our physical and digital infrastructure.

Challenges for SMEs

Our region boasts a higher than average amount of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) that needed support to allow them to reach their full high growth potential and adapt to in an increasingly digitally driven world market.

9Notes:1: Page 38 2: Page 38

Investing in Our Future

Creating the right environment to allow people and businesses new opportunities through Higher Education, Research and Innovation.

Strenghthening Business

Providing businesses with support, advice and high quality workspaces needed to thrive and compete locally, nationally and globally.

StrengthenInvest

Making Connections

Connecting Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly with the rest of the world through trade, technology and knowledge.

Connect

10

11

Enviiroonnnmental tecchnologieess and

reeneewwaaable energyy enterprisses

asssistteed

Square metres of new or

upgraded non specialist fl oorspace

NNew jobs createedd

GGrroossss increaase in GGGVA RReesssearch and

Innnnoooovationn

CCeennnntres

Jobs safeguarded

12

BBussineessses assisted to improve perfoorrmance

NNeww bbbusinessees

523 Businesses

collaborating

with universities

and colleges

FFirmmss involvedd in

collaabbborative RR&D

pproojeecccts

Heecttaress of landd

reeadyy too devvelopp7

£59mNet additional GVA

13

Without improvements to both physical and digital infrastructure nothing else had a hope of succeeding; as you can’t build a house without strong foundations.

In the case of C&IoS these foundations were both physical and digital; our Superfast Cornwall programme was one of the largest rural rollouts of superfast fi bre optic infrastructure projects in Europe during the Convergence period. Superfast was an amazing programme which probably had the most direct eff ect on the entire population of C&IoS during the Convergence period as 95% of the region was upgraded. Other digital infrastructure which was put in place helped C&IoS get ready for the next round of European funding acting as a springboard to economic change.

The fi bre optic cable comes ashore at St Mary's on the Isles of Scilly, summer 2014.

Almost everything during the Convergence period could

change, our output, the number of SME’s in our region,

even the amount of people working, however, one thing

could never change. Our location.

The site and situation of our region is both an asset

and a hindrance. A booming tourism industry makes

C&IoS one of the most popular places to visit in the UK,

but sometimes this has been at the detriment of other

industries. Making connections is the glue which held the

rest of the ERDF themes together.

14

let’s take a look...

15

“This project shows how the public and private sectors can work together to deliver local solutions to local problems. Households and businesses in this largely rural area can now look forward to having one of the best broadband connections in the world, thanks to Cornwall Council’s vision, European funding and BT’s investment and expertise.”Ed Vaizey, Minister for Communication, Culture and the Creative Industries.

BT connect St Michael’s Mount to the superfast broadband network 16

> 600More than 600 green roadside cabinets have been installed to connect Cornish homes and businesses to 100 telephone exchanges with ‘fi bre to the cabinet’ technology, providing speeds of up to 80Mbps

130,000 kmThe programme has deployed around 130,000km of fi bre optic cable in Cornwall, enough to travel around the world 3 times

939 kmCable from Porthcurno to the Isles of Scilly provides superfast broadband making them one of the best connected off islands in the world

330 MbpsA signifi cant proportion of the fi bre roll out has been ‘fi bre to the premises’, the most future proof of broadband technologies, off ering speeds of up to 330 Mbps.

The BIG Build Facts

Superfast Cornwall was an ambitious £132 million partnership bringing superfast broadband to Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, making it one of the best connected places in the world.

Superfast broadband will have the power to transform the life, work and play of each and every one of the half a million people living in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. 95% of businesses and homes will have access to fi bre broadband by the end of 2014 and alternative technologies will be used to bring faster broadband to everyone else.

The local economy will be reinvigorated; businesses will be assisted to innovate, improve their productivity and effi ciency, provide bett er service to customers and compete more eff ectively as a result. This will drive growth and economic regeneration across the region.

Over 10,000 businesses will be connected to superfast broadband and the investment programme aims to create and safeguard 6,000 jobs and help att ract new businesses to the area.

The programme has also resulted in some world fi rst technological advancements developing right here in Cornwall. The Superfast Cornwall Labs programme has trialled the world’s fastest broadband and hit astonishing speeds of 10 gigabits per second, This trial earned the program a globally recognised award in 2013.

Through the Superfast Labs programme we have also seen how fi bre broadband has a lasting positive economic, social and environmental impact by enabling Innovation across business sectors and all levels of society in Cornwall.

Superfast Cornwall has also gone a long way to help those who have never been on the internet before. Thanks to the Superfast Cornwall Digital Inclusion programme over three thousand people were given their fi rst ever experience of the internet at a series of workshops held in community halls and libraries across Cornwall. (note: see page 38)

Awards

• Chartered Institute of MarketingExcellence Award 2013: Public Sector

• Global Telecoms Business InnovationAwards 2013: Fixed Network Infrastructure Innovation

• Frost and Sullivan 2012 European Growth Leadership Award in Rural Broadband Deployments

• "Changing Lives" Broadband Infovision Award at the 12th Annual Broadband World Forum 2012

• World Communication Awards 2011: Project of the Year

Superfast Business Cornwall

Helping Cornish businesses implement transformational projects. This Programme gave Cornish businesses a signifi cant advantage through superfast broadband enabled technology.

• 8 Expert Panels comprising representatives from BT, Superfast Cornwall, University of Exeter, Microsoft , Stem, Francis Clark, Lloyds, Clustre and Experience Lab

• 22 businesses have been through the full application process

• £1.1m of funding has been agreed for the 20 businesses who have started / about to start projects

• £2m has been committ ed by the businesses

• 60 jobs created already with another 20 expected

17

Case Study page 75

Case Study page 75

18

Getting our region ready

To enable Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly to work

productively we had to address some of our long

term infrastructure issues to enable businesses

and residents to work effectively in the future.

Aerial view over Pool 19

Redruth Brewery Site

The former Redruth Brewery Site was an eyesore since its historic buildings were destroyed by fi re in 2011. ERDF investment went into the fl ood alleviation scheme and public pathways which unlocked investment into the rest of the site enabling further redevelopment.

The scheme proposed for the site includes a mix of cultural buildings, public spaces, workspaces and housing. The creation of Kresen Kernow, the new archive centre for Cornwall, as part of this, will provide a much awaited home for the stories of Cornwall and will help to reinforce Redruth’s ambition to become a cultural and community destination by the end of 2016.

Employment Infrastructure Project - North Quay, Hayle

The completion of this major infrastructure scheme in February 2013 unlocked 1.3 hectares of employment land with outline planning consent to accommodate over 7,000 m2 of workspace, with the potential to create 276 jobs.

The investment provided a new road bridge, the construction of a new road and promenade, fl ood protection works and the repair of the historic harbour walls. It also levelled and secured the site for the new Marine Renewables Business Park including the provision of primary services.

It has supported the development of a new high value sector based around marine renewable technologies and capitalised on the £42m investment in Wave Hub.

Wheal Harmony & Cornwall Business Park (CBP)

Two disused brownfi eld former mining areas were chosen in Redruth and Scorrier as areas that could provide land for redevelopment. The sites had common barriers to redevelopment, including contamination, former mine workings and Japanese knotweed. Together they provided over 45 acres of speculative land for redevelopment and high value employment.

Both sites off ered a great location adjacent to the A30 and close to the existing industrial estates in the area. The Cornwall Business Park (CBP) near Scorrier was divided into two sites and 23 serviced industrial plots right next to the A30; CBP West was centred on an Enterprise Park with consent for offi ce, manufacturing, distribution and storage facilities whilst CBP East had consent for waste processing facilities.

Marine Renewables Business Park, Hayle

The second phase of development at North Quay, Hayle builds upon the earlier infrastructure investment to deliver a Marine Renewables Business Park.

This new facility will accommodate companies in the growing marine energy sector. The Business Park will off er 2,500m² of offi ces and industrial units and is expected to create 120 jobs.

Due to open in summer 2015, the development underlines Cornwall’s commitment to its diverse marine renewable ocean resource, innovative industry and world class supply chain and will further strengthen its capability to support this growing sector.

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20 *

some examples of our investments, see more at www.erdfconvergence.org.uk

Newquay Cornwall Airport (Aerohub)

ERDF built on the previous Objective One investments that saw the transition of the airport from military to civil use.

The Airport Infrastructure Business Development (IBD) ERDF programme supported Newquay Cornwall Airport to become commercially sustainable by diversifying activities on the airport. During Convergence several ERDF infrastructure projects took place on the site including new hangars, upgraded taxiways and aprons, and Business Park site servicing. The site was awarded Enterprise Zone status by the UK government in 2011, creating Aerohub at Newquay Cornwall Airport; the UK’s only aerospace focused Enterprise Zone. The IBD funding allowed the delivery team to produce a competitive Investor Engagement Strategy and raise the profi le of the site on an international stage.

The combination of state-of-the-art infrastructure, clear airspace, development land, Enterprise Zone status and ERDF funding, makes Aerohub at Newquay Cornwall Airport the best place in Europe to locate an aerospace business. Since the launch of the Enterprise Zone in 2012, the site has att racted 7 new businesses and over 200 new jobs .

• Enterprise Zone: awarded in 2011, one of 24 sites in the UK selected

• Place Making Awards Finalist

• Spaceport shortlist: only site in England (6 in Scotland, 1 in Wales)"Aerohub at Newquay Cornwall Airport has been selected as the site for

our new MRO facility, due to the excellent infrastructure the airport has to off er plus the benefi ts of developing our new business venture within the Enterprise Zone. The MRO facility will include aircraft storage and recycling areas and AAG looks forward to building relationships with the local community and businesses, in addition to contributing to the economy in the South West’"Bernard Longman, Apple Aviation.

21

Aerial view of Newquay Cornwall Airport

Case Study page 76

The refurbished trainline at Bissoe viaduct.

22

ERDF invested in a wide range of transport projects

to enable the movement of people

and business across the region.

£54,480,467

£98,517,128TOTAL

Unlocking our transport network

ERDF

23

CCoommmmmuter linkThe Coosebean Commuter Link connected west Truro with the city centre via a new cycle and pedestrian link.

The scheme provided a pleasant walking and cycling route as an alternative to the A390, encouraging those making local trips in their car to choose to walk or cycle.

The project represented a signifi cant step towards providing a bett er environment and safer access for cyclists and pedestrians between Truro City Centre and the Treliske, Gloweth and Threemilestone areas where there was a high demand for access to work and education.

Relieving the highway network will benefi t all users and off er a healthier, active mode of travel to those who have been discouraged from using the busy A390. Increasing the sustainable travel options for those who work or live in Truro will help the city to embrace future growth and inward investment with reduced impacts from traffi c.

Reducing traffi c congestion along the A390 Highertown corridor into the city centre will enable goods and services to move more freely while contributing to carbon reduction and improved air quality. This will contribute to increased city footfall and will link with other projects to help make the heart of Truro a more att ractive business location.

Inntteelligennncce Real Time Passenger Information (RTPI) displays were provided at key bus stops along the main commuter route in the Camborne, Pool and Redruth area.

These RTPI signs took the guess work out of waiting for a bus. Keep passengers informed with the most up-to-date travel information can only help to increase the numbers of people using public transport.

This was the fi rst phase of a wider project to improve the transport system in the area, improving access and quality of public transport in Cornwall.

The project provided RTPI units at a total of 37 bus stops, 29 of which within the Camborne, Pool and Redruth area, to add to the signs already sited at 10 locations on the Truro-Penzance route.

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some examples of our investments, see more at www.erdfconvergence.org.uk

“The Western Park and Ride service carried more than two million passengers over the fi rst fi ve years, taking an estimated 550 vehicles off the roads around central Truro each day. The Eastern Park and Ride has more than 1,350 parking spaces, which provides a reliable cross city link helping to cut congestion on the roads in and around the city centre.’ Tim Wood, Assistant Head of Transportation at Cornwall Council.

Eaast-wesstThe Camborne Pool Redruth East-West Link project was designed to relieve traffi c on the existing A3047, hence alleviating congestion, providing an improved environment for residents, and enabling economic growth.

The route forms a link from Dolcoath to Dudnance Lane and from Dudnance to Wilson Way; the link is designed to provide relief to the East Hill junction which is a block to further development.

PPaarrkk &&& RRideeBuilding on the success of the existing Western Truro Park and Ride which operates from Langarth at Threemilestone, the Truro Eastern Park and Ride extended the service into a cross city link.

The Eastern Park and Ride provides a regular shutt le link through the city centre to Union Hill to Newquay Road. Operating on a 10-15 minute frequency, the service connects key destinations including Truro College, the Royal Cornwall Hospital, Truro Railway Station and three stops in the city centre.

PPaasssssing looopTruro to Falmouth Branch Line. The project improved the Falmouth Branch Line by constructing a passing loop at Penryn. The loop enabled two passenger trains per hour to run during peak times between Truro and Falmouth making it easier for people to access work and education opportunities. The scheme also eased the growing vehicle congestion on the A39 link road.

2,200Inhabitants on the

Isles of Scilly

26

Aerial view of St Mary’s Island

Isles of Scilly

Lying 28 miles off the coast of Cornwall, the Isles of

Scilly have seen investments which have enhanced

both social and economic opportunities for the

islanders.

27

OOne oof thee bbeneefi ts off a smaall

ggeoggrraaphiccaal aareea likee CPR oor Pennryn

CCamppuus iss tthee aabilitty ttto see linkages

bbetwweeeen innvvesstmments.. The bbennefi t of

ccoheessivve aannd inclussiveee invesstmmentss

thhrouugghh Euuroppeaan fuundds is fuullyy

ddemooonnstraateed wwithinn thhe bussineess and

ccommmmuunityy onn thhe Issleees of Sccillyy.

SSt Maaryy’s bbeeneefifi ted frooom variiedd

innvessttmmenttss durring theee life off

CConvverrgenncce wwhichh wwwork toggeetherr

too coonnnnectt tthee ccommmuunity andd

bbusinnessses togeetheer.

* Connecting everyone digitally…

Until November 2014 the residents of the Isles of Scilly relied upon broadband service provided by a radio link between Lands End and the islands.

The Superfast Cornwall Programme undertook a month-long operation to divert a disused fi bre optic cable between the UK and Spain. The 939 kilometre cable between Porthcurno, Cornwall, and Santander, Spain had remained unused on the seabed of the Atlantic Ocean since it was taken out of service in 2006 aft er 11 years of handling high-speed international communications.

The 12,184 tonne cable ship “Resolute” cut the cable at two points in the Atlantic - about 100 kilometres and 15 kilometres off Lands’ End - and diverted a section to the Isles of Scilly, where all fi ve islands were able to take advantage of superfast broadband. This was a huge undertaking and was only achieved through the public, private partnership of EU funding and British Telecom.

Connecting everyone physically…

Being 28 miles of the coast meant transport infrastructure was an important aspect of the funding for the islands. ERDF were able to step in to help with vital sea and air solutions when other avenues of funding discontinued or failed. On the islands ERDF acknowledged the vital links that are needed to keep the community alive.

With the closure of the Penzance to St Mary’s helicopter link in November 2012 the islands were left with access by fi xed wing aircraft only in the winter months. Connections to the islands were further damaged by winter storms when the passenger ships stopped and Lands End Airport suff ered from water logging, resulting in delays, cancellations or

diversions to Newquay Cornwall Airport. In the fi rst three months of 2014 alone there were 60 days of closure due to the elements.

With ERDF investment into Newquay Cornwall Airport complete, this allowed fl ights to the islands to work unhindered while ERDF investment was used to tarmac the waterlogged Land’s End Airport runways. ERDF also helped make vital improvements to the infrastructure of St Mary’s airport to allow consistent fl ights to continue for both businesses and residents on the islands.

28 *

some examples of our investments, see more at www.erdfconvergence.org.uk

29

Aerial view of St Mary’s Island

* Improving the urban environment…

Large workspace and town regeneration is even more prominent when it is achieved within small communities. The Porthcressa area of Hugh Town (St Mary’s) needed major rejuvenation to enable a neglected area to become a new community hub. Within a wider funding package ERDF worked in partnership to provide investment for workspace and public realm elements in the Porthcressa Regeneration.

Within the ERDF investment the existing library building was demolished and in its place three BREEAM Excellent workspace units were built, other funders invested into the building to provide apartments for local families. Together the project revitalised the area with business and residential space.

Improving and developing workspace helped retain businesses on the islands…

Porthmellon Enterprise Centre saw the redevelopment of a redundant building and adjoining land to create managed workspace for creative and knowledge based businesses on the island. The building was transformed into 10 fl exible workspaces, meeting rooms and shared communal spaces.

The building was re-clad with sympathetic, low maintenance and sustainable materials, with high levels of insulation. The south facing slope was also fi tt ed with solar photovoltaic and solar thermal panels to provide some of the electricity and heating requirements of the new building.

Connecting business…

One of the benefi ts of a small geographical area like CPR or Penryn Campus is the ability to see linkages between investments. The benefi t of cohesive and inclusive investments through European funds is fully demonstrated within the business community on the Isles of Scilly.

The Porthloo slipway and boatyard (which is the only boatyard on St Mary’s) received investment to construct a new concrete slipway. The boatyard was improved with new storage for boats and bett er facilities including toilets, services and sumps for waste oil were installed.

The improvements to the boatyard enabled the retention of vital marine businesses ranging from boat building to marine engine maintenance to stay on the islands, rather than relocate to other marine hubs such as Falmouth. In the long term this has enabled savings on fuel and time and also decreases the carbon footprint of the islands.

Stemming the fl ow of talent from the remotest islands…

With the advent of superfast broadband the remote islands were bett er connected than ever before, in order to be ready when superfast connected St Agnes the island worked towards refurbishing an existing building to allow opportunities for businesses and employment.

By creating a BREEAM * Excellent highly fl exible new building adjoining the refurbished and repaired hall allowed the creation of three workspace units, communal space, plant room, commercial kitchen, toilets, and a meeting room. This hub became the focus of the island and crucially allowed the residents to stay on the island stemming the fl ow of residents to St Mary’s in search of work opportunities. The building went on to win a Cornwall Sustainability Award in 2014.

copyright Natalie Legg 2014

30

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some examples of our investments, see more at www.erdfconvergence.org.uk *

BREEAM stands for Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Methodology

‘This has been a real community project to enable this to happen on our island. We have suff ered a real drain of talent due to the loss of people to the islands and mainland due to the lack of opportunities here. However, with the new workspaces working alongside the community hub will hopefully start to turn the tide of employment. The workspace is set to be connected to superfast broadband when it arrives on the islands, so there really won’t be any digital diff erence working from here or the mainland.’

Aisling Hick, Trustee of St Agnes Island Hall

Further works enabled a tired shelter to be demolished to allow the building of a new public conveniences and showers, the development also had storage facilities, a meeting space, and outside seating. This improvement to the urban environment was complemented with extensive landscaping around the area and the lack of accessibility was addressed across the site and beach by providing recessed paving areas with new steps, and a new paved promenade to improve the fl ow of people along the banks and more seating. The other investors enabled the building of a new register offi ce and library with further provision of new workspaces.

31The new Porthcressa meeting space and conveniences

Investing in our future

Our region had a historical lack of Higher Education

and Research & Development infrastructure, to invest

in tomorrow we had to get projects ready which would

benefi t our people now. Our investments into Higher

Education in Penwith College, Dunheved House

and Penryn Campus are buildings; however it is the

people inside them that matters, as the benefi ts our

investments offer today, allow for better prospects for

everyone tomorrow.

“Researchers at the European Centre for Environment & Human Health are tackling antibiotic resistance in the environment.”32

33

34

One of the offi ces at Tremough Innovation Centre (TIC)

Cornwall Innovation

At the start of the Programme ERDF saw the need for

specialist business acceleration facilities that focussed

on supporting Cornish Business. A trio of Innovation

Centres were built to address this need to support

growth, knowledge and innovation-led businesses...

£28,803,994

£38,405,326TOTAL

ERDF

35

‘The fantastic year-on-year growth of the businesses based at the Cornwall Innovation Centres is down to the tangible support the businesses are given at the Centres. This support enables companies to focus entirely on growing their business, creating increasing numbers of high value, sustainable jobs.” Bernard Curren, Plymouth University’s Innovation Lead and director of Cornwall Innovation

36

The spacious atrium at Pool Innovation Centre (PIC)

At the start of the Programme ERDF saw the need for specialist business acceleration facilities that focussed on supporting Cornish Business. A trio of Innovation Centres were built to address this need to support growth, knowledge and innovation-led businesses and in particular those from the media, creative, eco, environmental, and health and wellbeing sectors. Support was designed to off er businesses at all stages of their journey from incubation through to mature enterprises looking to innovate and grow.

In 2010 the fi rst of the three innovation centres, Pool Innovation Centre (PIC) opened its doors to the business community. PIC reached 50% occupancy in less than six months – two-and-a-half years ahead of schedule and became a landmark building in the regeneration of the Camborne, Pool & Redruth area

(PAGE?). It was a trend that was to be repeated by the Tremough Innovation Centre (TIC), which opened in 2012 adjacent to the Penryn Campus, and the Health and Wellbeing Innovation Centre (HWIC), which launched in 2013 on the Cornwall NHS Hospitals Trust site in Truro.

By 2014, they were home to 140 businesses from a wide array of sectors and were independently judged to be ‘world-class’*. Through Plymouth University, they continue to provide extensive development and training support for their clients, who in turn have fl ourished in the Centres, registering 20% growth (on average), with 216 jobs created, 76 safeguarded, and revenues increasing by £9,350,000.

Read an Innovation Centre Case Study.

Innoovatioon Cenntres Achieved INSPIRE accreditation by UK Business Incubation (UKBI), eff ectively ranking them among the best in the world.

The Formation Zones within each of the Innovation Centres, along with Plymouth University’s two campus centres, were awarded the UK Business Incubation (UKBI) ‘Achievement in Business Incubation’ award for 2013.

jobs created and 76 safeguarded

139

480 businesses

employed people

The Centres have hosted more than 3,200 events with 35,000 delegates

Revenue growth of £9,350,000

37

Case Study page 77

* The European centre for environment & human health

The European Centre for Environment and Human Health is conducting world-class research into the complex connections between the environment and health. Created with support from ERDF and ESF Convergence and an integral part of the University of Exeter Medical School, the Centre is helping to improve public health, develop business skills and enhance economic growth across the South West.

The Centre’s academics employ a wide range of research methods in their studies, using an interdisciplinary approach that combines science, the arts and the humanities to improve knowledge and understanding of the health risks and wellbeing opportunities presented by the environment. Their fi ndings have broken new ground in areas vital to public health, analysing the environment’s role in promoting antibiotic resistance, and providing pioneering insights into how ‘blue’ and ‘green’ spaces can boost wellbeing. The Centre’s scientists have

brought signifi cant funding into the region, enabling Cornish companies to work on and benefi t from projects that have global signifi cance.

Collaborations with Cornish organisations have been at the heart of the Centre’s ethos, working with a diverse mix of businesses, government bodies and third sector organisations to ensure its fi ndings enhance the economy of the region and impact policy at a national and international level. Through its PhD, MSc and new BSc training programmes, the Centre is working to equip tomorrow’s academic and business leaders with crucial skills in environment and health.

Through a concerted programme of international conferences and networking events, the Centre has helped to catalyse Cornwall’s reputation for innovation. It has brought businesses from diff erent sectors together and supported connections that have led to exciting new commercial opportunities.

Dental investment tackles oral health in Cornwall

In 2010 an innovative dental clinical teaching facility opened in Truro, which has contributed to a sea change in the way in which dentists are trained and helped to achieve bett er oral health in Cornwall – with thousands receiving NHS dental care where they may not have done before.

The Truro Dental Education Facility (DEF) is run by the Peninsula Dental Social Enterprise and is where third year dental students from Plymouth University treat NHS patients under the supervision of qualifi ed dental health professionals, as part of their training.

It is one of four DEFs in the South West, with two others in Plymouth and one in Exeter.

The rationale behind the DEF programme is two-fold: to prepare the dentists of the future for the NHS by providing training in an environment which mirrors that of an NHS practice; and to raise awareness of good oral health and increase access to

dental care for local communities.

The sort of treatments and services that take place at the Truro DEF include:

• Dental check-ups, oral examination and diagnosis including X-rays

• Advice for preventing tooth decay and gum disease including tooth brushing and oral hygiene instruction, dietary advice and the application of sealants that protect the surfaces of teeth

• Assessment and treatment of gum disease

• Fillings and crowns

• Extractions

• Dentures

Over the past fi ve years the Truro DEF has seen nearly 2,600 NHS patients and provided nearly 17,500 appointments. It has been the focus of interaction with a wide variety of groups from communities across Cornwall.

38 *

some examples of our investments, see more at www.erdfconvergence.org.uk

Case Study page 83

Combined Universities in Cornwall (CUC) is a partnership of fi ve universities and colleges working together to give more people the chance to study in Cornwall, and to use university level education to help our businesses and communities to thrive .

£113,796,285

£182,483,633TOTAL

ERDF

39

Aerial of the Penryn Campus near to Falmouth

40

Caption:

The Exchange

The ExchangeThe Performance Centre

In 19999, Faalmouth Universityy acquiredd

a larrge sitee in Penrryn that hhas been

deveeloped as a joinnt venturee with the

Univversity oof Exeterr. Initial ddevelopmeent of

the ccampuus, suppoorted by EEuropean Union

and South West Reegional DDevelopmeent

Agency funnding, inccluded rooad infrasttructure

and the meedia centre. The DDaphne DDu

Mauurier building coomplex, wwhich incluuded

the DDesignn Centre, Camborrne Schoool

of MMines, sshared libbrary, andd lecture aand

social spacce, was ccompleteed in 20044. The

Peteer Lanyyon buildiing and the Photoggraphy

Cenntre opeened in 22007.

Over £200 million of investment, including support from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) Convergence, the SWRDA and Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE), has produced a world-class campus which provides unrivalled facilities which welcome a local, national and international student population.

ERDF has provided funding for key projects at the campus:

The University of Exeter's Environment and Sustainability Institute (ESI) leads cutt ing-edge, interdisciplinary research into solutions to problems associated with environmental change. The research centre at the Penryn Campus brings together state-of-the-art resources with leading academics and researchers in a brand new BREEAM Outstanding* rated building. The ESI builds on the University's established research strengths, working with businesses in Cornwall, the Isles of Scilly and beyond to translate research and expertise into innovative business practices, productsand services.

The Academy for Innovation & Research (AIR) is home to research at Falmouth University and its centre for business collaboration. This multi-disciplinary research and development laboratory is designed for students, staff and researchers to work with businesses on live projects at local, national and international levels. With specialist expertise in the areas of sustainable design and the digital economy, applied research enables innovative Cornish companies to reach their

full potential by developing new products and services, new routes to market and ready access to investors and suppliers globally.

Based in AIR is the innovative Alacrity Falmouth programme, designed to create a new generation of Cornwall-based companies in the high-value digital games sector. This incubation programme works by building businesses to meet known demand arising from global markets. In so doing it enhances not just Cornwall’s, but also the UK’s, competitive position as a producer and user of digital applications and creative content. Alacrity Falmouth extends Falmouth University’s role as a talent generator at the centre of a growing digital creative hub. The programme capitalises upon and retains the brightest graduate talent for the longer-term economic benefi t of Cornwall.

The University of Exeter’s new £5.5 million Science and Engineering Research Support Facility (SERSF) is bringing pioneering business, science and engineering together at the Penryn Campus. Currently under construction, the SERSF will provide a home for the University of Exeter Business School, which is expanding into Cornwall in 2015, alongside space for the University’s existing Marine Renewables team and growing Centre for Ecology and Conservation (CEC). This new space will enable the University to accommodate 15 new planned academic posts which will bring in research funding through applications to industry, research councils, the EU, and major charitable trusts.

Falmouth University’s Academy of Music and Theatre Arts is based in purpose-built facilities at Penryn Campus. Investment from ERDF has been used to provide state-of-the-art specialist buildings including multi-purpose studios and performance venues for theatre, choreography and music. The Academy is dedicated to education, research and public programming across the related fi elds of theatre, music, dance and cultural event management and production.

The Exchange is an extension to the existing Learning Resources Centre and part of the expansion of shared facilities at the Penryn Campus. Housing space for library and information services, learning and teaching, and social learning, it is central to the Penryn Campus, providing the opportunity for staff , students and visitors to collaborate and share ideas. A new lecture theatre and learning lab, ‘eddy' spaces for small group learning, and digital hubs have been created. A further development, The Heart, which will provide a new campus shop, reception and central plaza, will open in late 2015.

41

Case Study page 82

Investing in our land,

our people and the ocean

“Teams at the European Centre for Environment & Human Health are exploring how the environment can improve wellbeing.”42

Investment went into many projects across

the region which would act as a catalyst for change

in the green and marine sectors. Investments varied

from business support, buildings, innovation and

technologies to kick start the sector within C&IOS, let’s

take a look…

£49,751,538TOTAL

ERDF

43

*

some examples of our investments, see more at www.erdfconvergence.org.uk

labs and equipment were outmoded and not suited to medium and higher level technical and applied science education and training requirements.

The redevelopment project is a combination of rebuild and refurbishment which will result in modern laboratories, workshops and teaching and learning facilities which refl ect the current and future needs of students and marine businesses. The new Falmouth Marine School will provide skills training, higher education, and innovation support to help drive business growth, workforce development and great careers in the marine sector.

“The Green Build Hub (GBH) has been a long awaited concept. UK and Europe continue to engage with new ways of using sustainable building technology in construction and we want to position Cornwall as a hub of knowledge for sustainable innovations in building techniques.” Paul Bright CEO of CSBT.

Pull Outs:

• BREEAM ‘Outstanding’ building

• High-speed charging for electric vehicles

• Fully accessible building including the roof

Falmouth Marine School

Cornwall is the most maritime mainland county in England, with the highest proportion of coastline (700km) to area (3500km2). The GDP of the marine sector is estimated to be £500M, supporting over 14,000 jobs. Falmouth Marine School (FMS) is the only specialist marine college in the region providing education and training in marine science, marine technology and marine sports.

However, the existing building was constructed in the 1960s and had become outdated and ill-suited for meeting the requirements of students, businesses, staff , or modern standards of energy effi ciency and access. In particular the

Green Build Hub

Run by the Cornwall Sustainable Building Trust (CSBT), The Green Build Hub (GBH) is located at The Eden Project bringing together green build specialists from the charity as well as specialists from commercial and academic spheres.

GBH is a ‘living laboratory’ where eco-building products are installed, tested and monitored to produce objective and comprehensive performance data in a real building sett ing. The building serves as a distinctive training centre, and encourages inward investment by companies such as specialist green suppliers by enabling them to showcase and test innovative products within the building.

*

44

Developing marine

business

Pendennis Shipyard

Pendennis Shipyard Ltd located in Falmouth was seen as a major asset to the region due to the growing marine sector during the Convergence period.

Pendennis benefi ted from two investments, the fi rst to assist with an extension to the dry dock supported by covered workshops space for the construction and refi t of superyachts. The second project focused on integrated construction elements that included new project offi ces and workshops and three new water-facing construction halls (two at 90m and one 45m hall). Following the completion of these construction halls an adjustable-depth wet basin is being built adjacent to the yard to improve the post-project support that Pendennis can provide.

• Enabled further skilled job creation

• Enhanced the company’s award winning Apprenticeship scheme

• Supported long-term career opportunities for the sector

45

Aerial view of Pendennis Shipyard at Falmouth Docks

Many investments were made into

Marine businesses in our region.

Find out more on our website

www.erdfconvergence.org.uk

‘Wave Hub continues to be a catalyst for the development of the marine energy industry not just in Cornwall and the South West, but around the world. It has helped to att ract international investment and has put a global spotlight on the skills, expertise and abundant natural resources in our region.’ Claire Gibson, Managing Director, Wave Hub Ltd

46

The Wave Hub socket being deployed into the sea off Hayle

Wave Hub & the Marine Renewables Business Park

Wave Hub supports the development of marine renewable energy, including wave and wind power, both of which could play a big part in helping to meet the world’s future energy needs, and create skilled jobs in Cornwall.

Wave Hub is a marine energy test site that includes a giant four-way socket on the seabed around 10 miles off the coast of North Cornwall, connected to the shore by an electrical cable.

As well as speeding up the development of marine energy, Wave Hub’s role is to foster a growing industry in Cornwall and the UK, and maintain the UK’s position as a world leader.

Companies around the world that are developing new green energy technologies that generate electricity from waves or wind can bring their

devices to one of Wave Hub’s four berths and test how well they perform.

Being able to do this out to sea, in real conditions for long periods of time, is an important part of making sure these new technologies work and in making them commercially available in the long run.

For marine energy to make a signifi cant contribution to meeting our energy needs it will require lots of electricity generating devices working together.

That’s why Wave Hub is specially designed to test groups of these devices, not just one at a time, making it the largest marine energy test site in the world.

Wave Hub cost £30 million to build. It was funded with £16.5 million from the European Regional Development Fund Convergence Programme and £13.5 million from the UK Government. It is owned by the UK Government Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS) and

operated by Wave Hub Ltd, an arms-length company set up by BIS.

Stats and achievements

• Wave Hub has been a catalyst for growth in the highly skilled marine energy industry, including more than £100 million of investment in marine energy facilities in the region.

• In the South West there are an estimated 400-500 well paid jobs in the sector in areas like technology development, research, consultancy, design engineering and marine operations. This is expected to grow to more than 1,500 people by the late 2020s.

• Wave Hub itself employs fi ve staff and turns over more than £1 million a year, much of which is spent with local suppliers either in Cornwall or the wider South West.

• Wave Hub is a past winner of the BusinessGreen [CRRT] Leaders Awards, having been named Sustainable Project of the Year, and won the sustainability category of the Institution of Engineering and Technology Innovation in Engineering Awards.

• In summer 2014 Wave Hub Ltd, the company that operates Wave Hub, successfully bid to The Crown Estate, manager of the UK seabed, to operate two wave demonstration zones off North Cornwall and Pembrokeshire, and a tidal demonstration zone off North Devon. This allows Wave Hub Ltd to sub-let parts of the seabed to a range of wave and tidal stream developers in these areas.

47

Case Study page 82

Strengthening Business

Engineered Arts Ltd in Penryn were supported by the GBI fund.

A strong business is a sustainable business.

Who knew back at the start of the Convergence

period that the economic recession would last so

long and affect so much of the world? Its effects

rippled into C&IoS and had immediate repercussions

on our economy and the Programme.

48

The Programme initially set out to grow productivity and create jobs; however, during the recession with businesses under pressure sound advice was needed to help them through the harder economic times. The Programme helped businesses sustain their sector positions whilst creating focused expansion and job creation for long term steady growth.

The Strengthening Business theme set in motion future jobs within the region, by working with investments within Higher Education, Research & Development meant graduates, could stay within the region at companies with high growth and high value potential enabling emerging talent to benefi t C&IoS.

Likewise, that talent could engage with businesses and the Research & Development cluster to enable collaborations and success. Across the region eligible businesses were given bespoke support and advice whether they were expanding or just starting out. Find out how ERDF business support improved Cornish business…

49

ERDF invested into Engineered Arts Ltd in Penryn

During the programme, one of the targets was to improve workspace

across the region to enable job creation and business expansion.

50

23

15

0506

51

59

57

52

60

04

6158

07

08

36

28

22

14

42

4349

35

27

21

13

414816

34

26

20

12

40

56

47

33

25

19

11

39

55

46

31

32

24

18

10

38

54

45

30

17

09

37

53

44

29

50

SPECULATIVE WORKSPACE

01 Porthcressa St Mary’s02 Porthmellon Enterprise St Mary’s03 St Agnes Workspace05 Porthmeor Studios06 Marine Renewables Park07 Helston Cattle Market09 Barncoose Gateway10 Cornwall Business Park11 Heartlands12 King Edward Mine13 Krowji14 Marlin House19 Tolvaddon 2b, 4, 520 Treleigh plot 121 Treleigh plot 2, 522 Treleigh plot 623 Treleigh plot 7, 828 3T29 Baldhu Offi ce30 Headworks31 RMD House35 Quintdowns Business Park36 Newquay Cornwall Airport Improvements 37 Jubilee Warehouse50 Chenoweth Business Park52 Victoria Commercial Centre53 Cross Lane Offi ces54 Goonvean Yard58 Old Duchy Palace59 Bude Stratton Business Park

BESPOKE WORKSPACE

08 Spiral Construction15 Calidus Engineering16 David Paull Ltd18 Western Power Distribution27 Wheal Daniel Workspace32 Cornwall Air Ambulance33 Keo Energyshare34 Apple Aviation38 Jarrang39 Mark Product40 Pendennis Building & Yacht Basin41 Rustler Yachts42 Watson Marlow51 Cornish Crabbers55 St Austell Printing Company57 Caterlink61 Spinnaker International

INNOVATION, R&D, EDUCATION WORKSPACE

04 Penwith College17 Pool Innovation Centre24 ECEHH25 Health & Wellbeing Innovation Centre26 Peninsula Dental School43 Academy of Innovation and Research44 Environment and Sustainability Institute45 Falmouth Marine School46 The Performance Centre47 SERSF48 The Exchange49 Tremough Innovation Centre56 Green Build Hub60 Dunheved House

Isles of Scilly28 miles southwest

of Land’s End

03

02

01

Oft en the award winning Innovation Centres located at Pool, Penryn and Truro are held up as examples of ERDF invested business incubation space in C&IoS. The trio have demonstrated the potential for business growth in C&IoS wasn’t constrained despite a world-wide economic downturn. However, the Innovation Centres weren’t suitable for all businesses, so the ERDF Programme had to be smart to ensure investment met business's demand. To fulfi l this remit workspace investments were split into three distinct areas, speculative, bespoke and refurbishment.

We have highlighted a few of the 63 projects over these pages, the rest can be found on the investment map. Many of these projects wouldn’t have been possible without the match funding packages the projects raised, so we congratulate them on working hard to make their projects happen.

51

Speculative workspace

One of the driving forces behind the

speculative developments during the

Programme was the engagement of the

private sector and their willingness to invest

in large scale developments despite the risks

during a recession. One of the successes of

this partnership was the number and diversity

of the developments, all of which were

completed to BREEAM ‘Excellent’ standards,

on schedule and showed great tenant interest

and retention.

Treleigh Industrial Estate (SCORRIER)

ERDF jointly invested in six plots on the Treleigh Industrial Estate in Redruth over the life of Convergence. These developments built 18 high quality units totalling 9011sq. metres of workspace.

‘The opening of Treleigh Park (Plot 1, Treleigh) realises the fi rst step in our ambition to develop high specifi cation commercial property in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. We have worked with a great team to deliver the project and thanks to our investment match funding ERDF we have been able to build these units which are not only a great addition to the wider industrial estate, but also act as a showcase build to demonstrate the ambition of our company.”Shaun Hunt, Managing Director of H.G. Sites Ltd

Barncoose Gateway (REDRUTH)

Built on brownfi eld land at the entrance to the Barncoose Industrial Estate, this large complex consisted of 6 hybrid units housing both offi ces and manufacturing, totalling 7439 sq. metres. Since it was built it helped to change the Camborne, Pool & Redruth (CPR) landscape with the aim to retain and att ract businesses to the area.

‘The Gateway Business Centre has been a great success. I think much of this was to do with the infrastructure we incorporated into the design and build. Businesses have been able to take advantage of both the physical and digital infrastructure the Centre off ers by using the 10gig internet connection, conferencing facilities and its location close to the A30, and the surrounding industrial estates.’Bob Pepper from Practical Developments

Victoria Offi ces (VICTORIA)

Situated in Central Cornwall, the project built offi ce space over two new buildings totalling 2183 sq. metres. This fl exibly designed development allowed for the division of offi ce space into a range of diff erent sizes of unit with various rental terms aimed to suit a variety of businesses, as well as ample space for conferences and parking..

‘Victoria is such a well-located place for business. The Centre is adjacent to the A30 and in the geographic centre of Cornwall. Since opening the businesses taking up tenancy in the offi ces have found the area has great links to both inside and outside of Cornwall.’Graham Honey, Victoria Offi ces

*

some examples of our investments, see more at www.erdfconvergence.org.uk

*Transforming land

for high growth, high

value business

52

Bespoke workspace

In some areas businesses were unable to

expand as construction costs outweighed

the fi nal resale value of the building. This was

a common issue in certain areas in Cornwall

where businesses were eager to expand to

help facilitate jobs in their area but couldn’t

due to funding issues. ERDF worked with

many businesses to help fi ll the funding gap

from completing new buildings to bespoke

refurbishment or extensions to their

existing premises.

St Austell Printing Company (ST AUSTELL)

This investment created two new buildings at St Austell Enterprise Park; bespoke workspace for St Austell Printing Co Ltd and a speculative development of fl exible, high quality workspace/offi ce accommodation. The investment into the 5,280 sq. metres of space enabled the St Austell Printing Co Ltd to relocate from their existing premises to a new bespoke factory and offi ces.

“As SAPC match funded the money we were in it together, with that extra money we could build a factory that not only is good looking, but encompasses the latest technical and environmental amenities for business. ERDF funding makes projects like this happen, a developer wouldn’t have invested that kind of money into this area as it would be a hard to get that revenue back in the short term.”Peter Moody, Managing Director SAPC

Cornwall Air Ambulance (NEWQUAY)

Convergence investment built a new base for Cornwall Air Ambulance Trust and its helicopter at Newquay Cornwall Airport, as part of the growing aviation business hub. The development included a hangar and high quality offi ce space, providing accommodation for both operating crews and the fundraising team.

Pendennis Building Redevelopment & Yacht Basin (FALMOUTH)

The project focused on six integrated construction elements located at Falmouth Docks that included new offi ces, workshops and wet basin, it aimed to enable skilled job creation, sustain the company’s award winning Apprenticeship scheme, and build long-term career opportunities for those with the drive to match the Pendennis brand values and aspirations.

*

some examples of our investments, see more at www.erdfconvergence.org.uk

*Using European

investment to support

local business

workspace

53

Refurbished workspace

Baldhu Offi ce, Wheal Jane (Nr TRURO)

This project involved new build and refurbishment to form both a feature gateway offi ce and entrance to the Wheal Jane Earth Science Park.

Aft er completion of a new offi ce block tenants Wardell Armstrong International moved from the existing 1970's offi ce block adjacent into the new building to allow the old building to be upgraded.

Once the upgrade was complete including an atrium link between the two blocks, Wardell Armstrong were able to expand into both making provision for the ongoing expansion of their international mining and minerals business.

Can you tell which block is the original and which is the new�

Apart from being fully accessible both buildings are energy effi cient and heated by a deep bore hole geothermal system.

Jubilee Warehouse (PENRYN)

Investment into Jubilee Warehouse enabled the refurbishment of a former self-storage facility into a high quality BREEAM ‘Very Good’ rated workspace. The workspace centred around a glazed atrium where an over-sized table at the heart of the building encouraged networking of the businesses in the building. The workspace was split into 13 units totalling 450.7 sq. metres targeting knowledge based creative sector businesses.

This development complements the Jubilee Wharf workspace project, adjacent to Jubilee Warehouse, which was funded with the assistance of ERDF under the previous Objective One Programme.

Dunheved House (LAUNCESTON)

A former boarding school in Launceston was renovated and reopened as a high-level education centre with conferencing facilities and learning space, the project incorporating both ERDF and ESF investment.

‘We are so pleased to be able to have a permanent site in North Cornwall to enable us to provide bett er services to businesses in the area. Cornwall College consulted with the local business community about the kinds of training they required and we continue to welcome businesses to the venue to demonstrate the training options available.’ Raoul Humphreys, Deputy CEO at Cornwall College

The ERDF Programme built many new

workspaces across the region; however,

a focus on refurbishment enabled existing

business premises to be upgraded with the

latest amenities. Building on our heritage

and also looking at developments which

could be improved was an important part of

the Programme where refurbishment could

make a difference. Many of the refurbished

projects were already vibrant places of work

or culturally important, they varied vastly, but

they all used investment from ERDF to improve

their BREEAM status and the workspace they

offered.

*

some examples of our investments, see more at www.erdfconvergence.org.uk

*

Transforming buildings

of yesterday for

tomorrows business

needs

54

Regeneration of our cultural heritage The regeneration of our historic buildings was an important part of

the creation of quality workspace within the Programme. Buildings

with historic or cultural importance were chosen that were either

economically viable as workspaces for business or would act as a

catalyst for wider economic community regeneration.

The Heartlands project in the centre of Camborne, Pool & Redruth

55

KKingg EEdddward Mineefrom mmine tooo museum... to creeative workspacee

Kroowjifrom ddisused sschool... too creative woorkspace

King Edward Mine, near Troon, is the oldest and best preserved pre-1920 mining site left in Cornwall.

For more than a century it was used by Camborne School of Mines to deliver practical training before being bought by Cornwall Council in 2009. Now a popular mining heritage att raction, it is situated on the Great Flat Lode cycle and walking trail.

ERDF was used to turn the old Count House and Carpenter’s Shop, both Grade II* listed buildings, into nine new workspace units for businesses working within the knowledge economy and creative industries sector.

Using traditional building skills and local materials, the two derelict buildings were refurbished and adapted, signifi cantly improving their environmental, access and sustainability standards within the constraints of their Grade II* listing.

The King Edward Mine Workspace Project was the result of several years of planning

and consultation and this fi rst phase of capital development has helped to secure funding from the Heritage Lott ery Fund to conserve the core museum buildings, including creating a cafe and new exhibition space in the derelict Assay Offi ce and Boiler House. This will greatly enhance the visitor experience and with the Workspace Project, will have a positive impact on the local community and economy.

"This award-winning heritage site has a very special place in many people's hearts, especially those connected with Camborne School of Mines, but also today's museum visitors and the many volunteers who keep the site open to the public. The creation of these aff ordable workspaces allows businesses to benefi t from a connection with the site's inspiring past and future aspirations with all the latest amenities any business needs."

Tamsin Daniel, Cornwall Council’s Commissioning and

Project Development Offi cer.

Krowji was already a successful creative workspace community before ERDF investment. The former Redruth Grammar School buildings were almost bulldozed aft er 2003 when the school moved to modern buildings, but founder Ross Williams and the Krowji team saw their potential and worked hard to transform the shabby but much-loved site into artistic spaces.

The Krowji buildings had room for around 100 "makers" and creative businesses, but through ERDF the site underwent major regeneration. A dilapidated 1950s gym and canteen were razed to allow two new buildings to be built in their place, eff ectively doubling the space. These created space for a further 100 people and were linked to the original 1907 school buildings by a new landscaped courtyard which off ered a pathway between the old and the new.

"We were sure the demand for an extension to our unique creative workspace was justifi ed. The inspirational atmosphere we created at Krowji has extended into the new build, and all of our people here make use of the creative and collaborative atmosphere. It was so exciting to welcome new people into the spaces aft er the years of hard work from applications to construction, to fi nal fi nishes.’ Ross Williams

56

PPorthmmeeoor Studioosfroom sail lofftss to hhistoric aartisst commmunnity... to mmoderrnn artists' studioss and school

Porthmeor Studios in St Ives has long been an important cultural and historic building with signifi cance within the local, national and international art scene. The building dates back to the early 1800s and for its fi rst 100 years were at the centre of the St Ives pilchard industry with its unique position on Porthmeor Beach.

The artistic community arrived in the 1880s, and built their studios on top of the fi shermen’s cellars. Illustrious names including Ben Nicholson, Francis Bacon and Patrick Heron all used the studios during its history.

It was bequeathed to the Borlase Smart John Wells Trust in 2002, aft er being put on the English Heritage ‘Buildings At Risk’ register and the need for extensive repairs meant a major task to

raise funding to protect and refurbish a building of great cultural and economic importance. With ERDF the Grade II* listed building was refurbished within two years to provide workspace for artists and fi shermen.

• The space was upgraded and divided into 13 artists’ studios

• The St Ives School of Painting was revamped ready for workshops and education

• The whole site was made accessible with a new footbridge and visitor lift

• In June of 2014 RIBA rewarded the Porthmeor project both for Conservation Of A Listed Building, and for Innovative And Outstanding Architecture

““It oofttenn raainnedd innnsidee, andd

itt wwaass ccoommpplettely normmal to

hhavvvee buucckkeets evvverywwhheree.

OOnccee hhaailsstoneesss actuuaally

ccammmee innssiddee, ssooo you can

ggueeesss hhooww larrgeee the hholees

iin thhee sskkyligghtss wwwere. It wwas

aalwwaays vveryy, veerrry cold..”NNaomi Frears AArrtist at Porthmeeor Studioss

57

Business Support Programmes 58 invested into many sectors including

businesses in the Green & Marine sector

Construct new

factory and

workshop space

Grants for

Relocate

and expand

Develop

innovative

software

Develop

state of the art

robotics

Install new

machinery to

enable product

expansion

Create new

educational

tools for

educators

Grant for Business Investment

One of the successes within engaging businesses through European investment was the Grant for Business Investment (GBI) scheme. GBI supported the start-up, expansion, modernisation and diversifi cation of high growth, innovative and knowledge-based businesses. ERDF helped invest with the business into key assets such as buildings and machinery thereby creating jobs, increasing business productivity and raising skills levels.

• ERDF investment joined match funded private business investment

• The majority of jobs created within GBI were to be at NVQ Level 2 (the equivalent of 5 GCSEs) and above

• Salaries were to average in excess of £20,000pa

• GBI Programme created and safeguarded 339 jobs within Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly (December 2014)

Other businesses helped through GBI are in the Green & Marine section page 43

Read the GBI case study on page 78

59

have been created and safeguarded to date

businesses have been supported in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly so far.

new jobs have been created up to now

In GVA added to the local economy with a ratio return on investment of 3:1

“The Combined High Growth Programme has been an outstanding success. Oxford Innovation is proud to have played our part in helping over 400 companies accelerate their growth. With both tangible commercial impact and evidence-based improvement in management skills of the participants, the legacy of this project will endure for everyone’s benefi t.”

Andrew Finley, Commercial Director for Oxford Innovation Enterprise Coaching

Oxford Innovation delivered the Combined High Growth Programme off ering intensive coaching support for all eligible businesses from start-up to established enterprises through a predominantly coaching based service.

The Oxford Innovation team of highly experienced coaches, all with backgrounds of proven commercial

success, were available to support businesses with ambition, seeking to grow and thus drive forward the economy of Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. This programme gave each business access to coaches who enabled them to tap into extensive expertise and knowledge networks that facilitated rapid growth.

OOxfoordd Innovationhiggh grrowtth coaching

60

OI Business Coach Paul Perkin with Mark Marriott Finance Manager for Clear-fl ow Ltd

Case Study page 81

Invest in Cornwall had two main goals:

• Promote the business opportunities in Cornwall, challenging outdated perceptions of Cornwall as a tourism only location;

• Att ract non-EU Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) into Cornwall – the fi rst time Cornwall has proactively marketed itself overseas to att ract FDI.

Through a range of communication activities, from PR, marketing, digital media and event att endance, Invest in Cornwall has looked to promote the business face of Cornwall around the world. Working with key partners, the team shaped globally att ractive opportunities around the Aerospace (working with Aerohub), Marine Renewables, Smart Grid and Technology sectors in Cornwall. Led by sector growth, the team mainly targeted North America, Australia and the Middle East.

In addition, many of Cornwall’s most entrepreneurial or innovative businesses have participated as Cornwall “Brand Ambassadors”, helping the project to highlight the business face of Cornwall.

Over £2m of Advertising Value Equivalent (AVE) PR coverage was generated, as the project successfully promoted Cornish business successes. In addition, Cornwall branded stands could be found at key trade shows, from UK-based shows such as the International Food Exhibition (London), All-Energy in Aberdeen, Farnborough Airshow, across to the Geothermal Energy Expo in San Diego and Dubai Airshow. The team also ran high profi le digital campaigns that included the development of a series of videos, engaging social media activity, as well as a dynamic website that helped demonstrate the opportunities that exist.

“DDespitee opperatinng durringg the reecessssion and at a ttime where Fooreignn DDirrect Investmmentt was cchalllenging glooballly, oveer 200 fooreign oownned buusinesssess were engggaged with andd over 330 hoosted iinn Cornwaall to comme and discccuss projeccts they coould deevelopp iin tthe reggioon. BBy tthe proojecttt close, sevveral comppanies haave relloocaated wwithh maanyy more lookking to set up ppost 20015.”

Luucy Huntt, Invvest in CCorrnwalll Maanager ffor CCornwall Deveelopmment Company

Innvessst in CCCorrnwwallinnward innveestmeentt

61

Case Study page 79

62

The Product Development Centre (PDC) provided SME manufacturing businesses with a dedicated service to encourage them to innovate and grow. An expert Manufacturing Advisor visited each of the companies that expressed an interest in the project to help guide them through a process, identifying development and growth opportunities. A bespoke package of support was put together through an innovation review and many of these were accompanied by funding to enable the business to focus on key issues. The project also linked businesses with other sources of expertise at the right time for them - including universities and other business support programmes. A wide range of issues were covered including product development (new and existing products), identifying and accessing new markets and developing strategies for business growth.

The project has supported over 70 businesses with free innovation reviews and grants to support 50% of costs associated with growth projects. The average grant was in the region of £2000 with businesses matching this with at least 50% of their own investment. There was a signifi cant demand from businesses for this support and the feedback has been very positive. A mid-term evaluation of the project found that 100% of the companies felt that it had helped maintain or improve their market position. There was a focus on assisting ‘new’ / start-up companies, as well as those in the Environmental Goods and Services sector and also encouraging businesses to improve their environmental performance. The project has helped to demonstrate the types of issues businesses are facing and prioritise support for these going forward.

‘In my capacity as Manufacturing Advisor, I have witnessed fi rst-hand the positive eff ects the Programme has had on many SMEs in the Cornish manufacturing world. The ability to off er funding to companies, which would not have happened had it not been for the availability of these investments has been a major success story. I am confi dent that this support will provide the necessary foundation for the recipients to realise their growth expectation in the years to come.’

Martyn Pearson, SWMAS Ltd

Suresense was just one of the businesses to benefi t from SWMAS guidance. Suresense ‘Eluma’ lighting is fi tt ed in the Concorde visitor centre in Manchester.

average grant with businesses matching 50%

of the companies felt that it had helped maintain or improve their market position

SWWMASS Ltdsuppoorting our manufacturers

Case Study page 78

63

The BIG programme funding was available on a 50% match funding basis to businesses with project based investment proposals which led to growth and job creation. Investments in individual businesses were for a minimum of £1,000 and maximum of £50,000, with average investments estimated at £25,000. The purpose of the programme was to improve the competitive advantage of high growth Cornish small and medium

enterprises, leading to 400 skilled jobs being created. It was aimed at high value businesses with a strong track record of performance, operating in national and international growth markets with innovative and competitive productsand services.

“WWe havvee beeen deeligghtedd too be abble too co-fi nance higgh quuality bbuusiiness pproojectts aacross Cornnwall. This hhas clearlyydeemonsstrratted thaat therre iss a rolee forrr this type oof funding iin enncouraaggingg and dde-riskkingg invesstmeeent projectss, whhich leaads to suustaineedd businesss growwthh and joob crrreations”.

CDDC Proggraammme Mannager Brent Treloar

of funds committ ed and are on target to create 300+ plus jobs and £10m GVA (2014)

skilled jobs created so far

BBusinnness Invvestmennt fffor Groowtthinnvestingg in busineesss groowtth

Tom Raffi eld, Handmade Steam Bent Lighting And Furniture.

Case Study page 77

GetSet for Growth was launched in November 2013. An innovative and unique programme designed to support both new and established businesses looking to access fi nance and new markets in order to start, sustain or grow. Its team of industry experts provided bespoke 1:1 advice in sales and marketing and business fi nance, off ering support through connections, knowledge and enhanced skills through a series of specialist masterclasses helping businesses to grow.

"We have seen some tremendous achievements for GetSet for Growth and our clients - I believe this success has been driven by our refreshing approach to investment readiness. We

work with businesses to validate market opportunities and build strong value propositions for business growth,helping create eff ective sales and marketing strategies to secure those opportunities. Only then can fi nance be unlocked through robust business planning and realistic fi nancials, with clear milestones and deliverables. The combination of this approach with the professionalism demonstrated by our team of experts and our clients has been recognised by the fi nance sector resulting in a funding success rate of 97%." Matt Giles, Project Director

fi nance secured for our clients

jobs created

GGetSSeett for Growthhinvvestoor reeadddiness

64

Case Study page 84

By the end of February 2015 the businesses GetSet assisted had:

EExppoort Coornwwwallsuuppport for gglobaal groowwth

Export Cornwall was a business support service which aimed to help Cornish businesses succeed in international markets.

Export Cornwall was a uniquely designed part of the UK Trade and Investment service (UKTI), which works with UK-based businesses to ensure their success in international markets, and encourage the best overseas companies to look to the UK as their global partner of choice. With the addition of ERDF UKTI was able to create an important extra service specifi cally for Cornish businesses.

Support for businesses was off ered in the form of:

• Business Development Vouchers for Export Projects

• A team of International Trade Advisers provided practical and expert advice including sector and region specialists and full access to the national UK Trade and Investment service.

• Training, workshops and events catered for all levels of expertise, from complete export newcomers to experienced global operators.

• 1 to 1 mentoring on a range of subjects from export strategy to international digital marketing techniques with Export Cornwall’s mentors

• Access to a unique online learning tool which provided practical advice on a range of export subjects in bite-size, easy to access modules.

• Membership to the Export Cornwall Network which opened up access to Cornwall’s export business community

businesses supported

of target jobs created

of target jobs safeguarded

65

Sonya Gibbs & Chris Pearce from B Skincare

Case Study page 82

Businesses fundedaff employed

Jobs created or sustained

of funding delivered

Smmall Looans forr Busineessaccesss to fi nannce

Small Loans for Business, part-fi nanced by Convergence European Regional Development Fund was developed as part of a wider south west programme, with the objective of supporting business and economic growth in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly and delivered by South West Investment Group (SWIG Finance).

Launched in 2009 the project supported businesses from diverse sectors where the business plans were viable but they were unable to access suffi cient funding from commercial sources, such as the banks. With a focus on creating and expanding growth and growth potential, eligible applicants were able to apply for up to £50,000 to invest in their business until December 2015.

The aim of the project was not to compete with the banks, but rather to support where the banks were unable to fund

businesses due to the applicants failing to meet the lending criteria.

The Small Loans for Business Scheme supported 79 businesses across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly up to August with £2,036,565 worth of fi nance which equated to 133 jobs either created or sustained as a result of the funding, with further funding delivered until December 2015. Working in partnership with business support organisations across Cornwall, both Convergence funded as well as other funded and commercial organisations, many businesses were successfully supported with pre-investment business advice as well as support following the investment.

The small loans for business scheme allowed SWIG Finance to support 100 businesses with £2,311,565 worth of businesses across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly which wanted to grow but under normal circumstances would have been unable to access the investment. Supporting 79 businesses with £2,036,565 worth of funding has been an incredible achievement and the local economy has benefi ted as a result.”

Managing Director, John Peters

Brian Steer from SWIG Finance and Jamie Stephens of Cornwall Design and Print, one of the companies who accessed funding from SWIG Finance 66

Case Study page 79

Outset Cornwall provided people living in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly with fully-funded support to make the leap into self-employment and start their own business.

The service, created by YTKO Group, was introduced in October 2009 in order to support the growth of the Cornish economy through the creation of new businesses and jobs, and became a core part of the county’s business support landscape.

Founded on principles of social and economic inclusion, the Outset programme had a strong focus on helping individuals that were oft en excluded from traditional employment routes, to pursue self-employment as a viable and sustainable alternative.

Outset Cornwall actively supported people from a range of backgrounds including women, 16 to 25 year olds, over 50’s, black and ethnic minorities, single

parents, long term unemployed, people recently made redundant or at risk of redundancy and those with mental or physical disabilities.

Incorporating a mix of information sessions, business start-up workshops, one-to-one development coaching, events and networking sessions delivered in over 15 diff erent locations around the county, the Outset service engaged over 2,700 individuals and supported the creation of more than 430 new businesses and over 600 new jobs throughout the region.

Outset Online, an online interactive learning platform based on the same core content, was also developed to support the overall off ering, ensuring on-going business support for residents of Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.

“Thanks to Outset Cornwall, I managed to write a comprehensive business plan despite my severe dyslexia, put together a product portfolio and launch my fl agship product through a number of retail channels, overcoming many barriers along the way. Outset Cornwall gave me encouragement, support and a framework in which to explore my ideas and I’ve defi nitely grown in confi dence and capability.”

Jayne Tarasun Flock Follies

individuals engaged and supported aff employed

new jobs throughout the region.

new businesses

OOutssset Coornwwwallbusinessss sstartupp ssupporrt

67

Jayne Tarasun, Flock Follies

Case Study page 80

Social Enterprise Focus (SEF) provided a three tier service to support the growth of Social Enterprises in Cornwall and increase their contribution to the economy. The project was delivered by Peninsula Enterprise in partnership with the School for Social Entrepreneurs Cornwall, The Fruit Tree, Sue Morrish, WHM Consulting, Buckman Associates, Hudson Friday and Brookward Consulting

SEF held regular networking, information and advice events giving Social Enterprises the chance to meet with like-minded businesses, partner organisations and commissioners. The aim was to encourage collaboration to open up bidding opportunities for newer and smaller Social Enterprises and enable them to access contracts that would

otherwise be beyond their reach.

Over 90 businesses received advice through the service. The project worked with partners and commissioners to identify and notify suitable bidding opportunities to our clients and provided opportunities for clients to meet commissioners through specifi c advice events for suitable clients when opportunities were identifi ed. The growth achieved by the businesses resulted in over 30 new jobs

Find out more about Social Enterprise Focus and read their case study.

“It has been great for Peninsula Enterprise to work with such enthusiastic and dedicated partners in the delivery of this service. We are passionate about helping social enterprise to survive and grow, and so I am pleased that we have been able to help so many in Cornwall make the most of procurement opportunities from both the public and private sector, both inside the county and beyond, creating lots of new jobs along the way.”

Adam Chambers Chief Executive Peninsula Enterprise

businesses received advice through the service eployed

new jobs due to growth achieved by the businesses

Socciaal Enterprisse Focusgrowing your potential

68 Collaboration Event held by Social Enterprise Focus

Case Study page 80

Unlocking Potential helps people develop and business grow through employability, work experience and business support services.

Combining ESF and ERDF funding meant a range of complementary services for business leaders and individuals were delivered under the Unlocking Potential brand, jointly managed by Plymouth University and Cornwall College, across Cornwall, the Isles of Scilly and beyond. Funded by ERDF, the Enterprise Programme for Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly was delivered between 2011 and 2015.

The programme aimed to deliver business support in a responsive way, meeting the needs of business owners in a format they wanted at the time they needed it. This aspiration translated into three elements: Enterprise Heroes events; Fast Forward Groups and Research.

Enterprise Heroes events brought the best business minds to Cornwall, to share their experiences, insights and knowledge with the Cornish business community. Local enterprise heroes lent a Duchy perspective and proved that anything is possible from a Cornish base. Forming a key part of Unlocking Potential’s Connect events, the Enterprise Heroes inspired

and informed over 2000 delegates from more than 1000 businesses.

Oft en, the expert speakers went on to work with small groups of like-minded business leaders during Fast Forward Groups. The groups were a series of targeted learning sessions where business peers, together with an expert explored topics to develop business growth. During the two-to-three days, the participants experienced plenty of ‘I never would have thought of that' moments and were helped to focus on their goals and rethink how to reach them. Over 400 delegates took part in 60 groups, taking with them new knowledge, ideas and a network to support them.

Research delivered by specialists from Plymouth University’s SERIO team, provided groups with up-to-the-minute insights and tracked specifi c groups of Cornish business leaders (start-up businesses and female entrepreneurs) over a number of years to provide practical insights that are already helping businesses, and those who support them, develop.

“For the team to have the opportunity to deliver support to business in a style that they defi ned was a huge privilege. We’d long held the view that learning between businesses was a powerful way to ensure that Cornwall built on its strengths. Injecting external expertise and providing expert research, allowed businesses to really drive forward on their own goals and broke the mould of traditional service delivery. Wrapping ERDF business support with ESF graduate development was the icing on the cake, and provided a seamless growth package.”

Mark Smith, Executive Director

of ERDF matched by £826,815 of HEFCEaff employed

Events were held with 28 international speakers and 27 Cornish Enterprise heroes

clients received Business Assists of 12 hours or more

UUnloocckkingg Poottential unlockinng ggrowtth for yyouur bussinessss

69Caption:

Case Study page 84

Our sister fund: ESF

“It’s brilliant news that we’ve won a RegioStars award for creating jobs for young people. We aim to create fantastic oppportunities for our apprentices by giving them time, love, care and a platform too develop both their confi dence and theprofessional skills they need to be succcessful in the workplace. Over 90% of the graduates from Fift een Cornwall are in employment, and over 80% working in the restaurant industry.” Jamie Oliver

Key partners in the delivery of ESF have been the three co-fi nancing organisations – Department of Work and Pensions, Skills Funding Agency and National Off ender Management Service, with a host of delivery organisations including our Further Education Colleges, the private sector and many voluntary and community sector organisations.

Uniquely in the country ESF Convergence has also been invested in Higher Education, including graduate placements and PhDs with business, through the Combined Universities in Cornwall partnership. ESF Convergence investment has had an immediate impact on the lives

of the individual participants - helping people help themselves into work and progress in work, with the economic independence that paid employment brings giving new opportunities for the individual and their families. And the longevity of the impact is also seen shaping new ways of working in the mainstream. Successful employment and skills practice developed and championed using ESF is visibly shaping the mainstream off er through investors such as Jobcentre Plus and the Big Lott ery.

Fifteen Cornwall

Apprenticeship Programme

One of the beauties of European Cohesion Policy is that programme delivery means that investment in business and infrastructure (ERDF) and in people (ESF) occurs together.

The Fift een Cornwall Apprenticeship Programme won a top award at the Europe wide RegioStars 2014, in the Inclusive growth: creating jobs for the young generation category.

Fift een Cornwall, the fi rst project anywhere with ESF investment to win a RegioStar, is a social enterprise which aims to inspire via food and off ers a

chance for disadvantaged young people to transform their lives by becoming chefs. Run by the charity Cornwall Food Foundation, the restaurant – which uses celebrity chef Jamie Oliver’s international brand - was originally set up using European Social and European Regional Development Fund (ESF and ERDF) investment. It continues to receive ESF Convergence for its Apprentice Programme which is also supported by mainstream funding from Jobcentre Plus and Skills Funding Agency and 100% of the restaurant’s profi ts.

ESF Convergence has been invested in jobs and

skills, delivering for people and businesses across

Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly and making a

real impact – tackling both the current economic

conditions and also building for the future.

70

Treleigh Ind. Estate

Wheal Harmony

A30 junction improvements

The CPR area was transformed

during the economic journey of

Convergence. ERDF took the

time to consider investments

which would work best for both

community and businesses.

71

Welcome to the

of regeneration…

Marlin Ho

Workspaclocal conscompany and rentaother mix

Sustainable Transport

Electronic real time buupdates helped labourmobility in a socially deprived area

East Hill Junction

Improvements to the road helped unlock the potential of the area without congestion

Western Power Distribution

The new offi ce and warehouse space allowed WPD to stay in Cornwall and expand their workforce across the region, whilst the building redefi ned the approach road into CPR

Tolvaddon Energy Park

Construction of a new warehouse and offi ces helped Large Diameter Drilling (LDD) expand into a new headquarters for their worldwide operations.

The Camborne, Pool and Redruth (CPR) area

was transformed during the economic journey of

Convergence. ERDF took the time to consider

investments which would work best for the community

and businesses in CPR due to it being one of the

most deprived areas in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.

The area was hard hit by recession; on top of this the

closure of former industries left acres of brownfi eld land

right in the heart of two of the most populated urban

areas in C&IoS. Within a few square miles regeneration

has helped this former mining and industrial area

transform into a community ready for business which

showcases how ERDF

can work for transformation.

King Edward Mine

Its rich history was allowed to continue with the creation of workspaces for creative companies with the latest connectivity and facilities in a semi-rural area

East West Link Road

Provided a quick loop around CPR to allow traffi c and business to move through the revitalised area

Pool Innovation Centre

The fi rst of a trio of centres and one of the fi rst projects to be completed in the CPR area

72

700,000 Visitors to Heartlands since 2012

Heartlands is the result of a community's ambition to see a former blight on the landscape changed forever to become an asset to the local community, and something for everyone for now and in the future to be proud of.

Heartlands is a free to enter community regeneration project set upon the beautifully transformed site of the former derelict mining site Robinsons Shaft , Pool. The 19 acre site includes the World Heritage Site Gateways exhibitions, Robinsons Engine House, fi ve beautiful Diaspora Gardens, water features, the unique Red River Café, a small community of local businesses and one of the largest free adventure playgrounds in the South West.

ERDF investment helped to construct live and work space within the project to enable small businesses to grow on site.

A30 junction improvements

Joining the East Hill and East West Link road this improvement helped move the fl ow of traffi c through the busy CPR area to avoid congestion

ouse

ce units for struction expansion l income from

xed used units

Redruth Gateway

Investment into high quality workspace in CPR allowed businesses to move from PIC and other places to make the most of the latest facilities and connectivity

t

us r

The Elms

Refurbishment of the building led to community learning and links with ESF

Krowji Workspace

Demolition of 1950s buildings allowed this creative workspace to double in size to accommodate the growing creative industry in CPR

Cornwall Business Park

Creation of a new business park specialising in green industry on land which was remediated through investment to clear it of former mining works and other contaminates

Wheal Harmony

The Programme helped fund the unlocking of place for future business opportunities. Contaminated land was remediated ready for construction

Treleigh Ind. Estate

(Plots 1, 2, 5, 6, 7 & 8) –various workspace investments allowed the expansion of businesses into high quality mixed used workspace with great links to the A30 and the business community

Redruth Brewery and Archive

Funding helped unlock other funding to transform the derelict site into Kresen Kernow (Cornish Archive Centre), shops, workspace, housing and community space

73

74

75

Natuuraal Generationconnected by Superfast Cornwall (page 17)

MMaccMMaaateconnected by Superfast Cornwall (page 17)

MacMate was launched in June 2012 by MacAce, an established internet services company in Bodmin. It is an elegant collection of cloud services for Apple Mac, including web hosting, cloud disk storage, back up, iCal calendar sharing, email and galleries.

Following exhibiting at the world’s biggest Apple event, MacWorld Expo in San Francisco, MacMate has stormed ahead in the US marketplace and sales in the USA now account for 75% of total MacMate sales. CEO Gary Hall says: "We targeted the USA specifi cally as the Mac market is ten times larger there than in the UK.

"MacMate has turned us from a niche UK-only ISP into an exporter of cloud-based services in only a few months. It’s a market that’s highly profi table and highly skilled and we are perfectly placed to exploit it. We off er something with our cloud services that customers could not get anywhere else – a human being on the end of the phone."

"As an Internet Service Provider, it has always been imperative that we have the highest possible internet speeds, so we had to supercharge our broadband connection before

the arrival of superfast broadband. We had a bonded solution (with three ADSL lines bonded together) which gave us speeds of around 30 Mbps download and 2 Mbps upload. Now we have fi bre broadband, we enjoy speeds of 80 Mbps download and 20 Mbps upload – and all for a quarter of the price!"

"The extra bandwidth also means that our Virtual Private Networks are far more stable" says Gary. "We run a number of Virtual Private Networks for customers as well as within the business. Now we have superfast broadband, it is no problem to run multiple VPNs simultaneously – they all run perfectly.”

Gary says: "We are making more use of video - conferencing and screen sharing, now that the increased bandwidth ensures a higher quality experience. We regularly use iChat to speak to colleagues and customers in the USA.”

“In the last year, the business has grown from 4 staff to 12. We are recruiting additional staff now too. Superfast broadband has been a fantastic boost to our business and helped accelerate our rapid expansion."

Natural Generation are a renewable energy company, based at Perranporth. The company installs and maintains wind turbines and solar panel developments, as well as other renewable energy projects.

The business has undergone rapid growth since being set up eight years ago with just two people and rising from 5 to 25 full time employees in the past four years.

Natural Generation were one of the fi rst to order superfast broadband as soon as it became available in Perranporth. Managing Director Ivor Thomson said: “We are an internet-hungry business. We maintain over a hundred wind turbines, both in Cornwall and as far afi eld as Scotland. All are connected to the internet and we can monitor their performance online. If one breaks down, we can see it on the large screen in our offi ce or online and we can usually sort out the problem remotely. In other words, high speed internet is vital to our core business operations and superfast broadband has been tremendous for us.

“We now rely on superfast speeds of 80Mbps from our two superfast broadband lines and this has made it easier for us to carry out desk

top surveys via Google Earth as well as run our telephone systems through VOiP (Voice over Internet Protocol.) We have international clients and frequently talk to our clients in Germany and Canada. Since having our superfast broadband connection, we can rely on excellent quality Skype, so we now routinely use video-conferencing in place of telephone calls.

“We have also moved to a cloud-based server. In the event of bad weather or a disaster such as fi re or fl ood at the offi ce, the business would not be at risk and could continue to operate as usual. It also means that it is easier to work from home or remotely whenever we please, just as eff ectively as we can from the offi ce.”

“Although it is hard to quantify the exact contribution, there is no question that superfast broadband is making a huge impact on our business. By being able to do things remotely and in new and bett er ways, we are moving the business forward faster than would otherwise have been possible. Undoubtedly, this is leading to new job creation and will continue to do so over time.”

For over 45 years Helston-based AP Diving has led the way in diving Innovating, designing and manufacturing diving equipment of the highest quality. The company has grown from a small family business to an internationally respected dive manufacturer with a global network of dive instructors, distributors and support centres.

Support from Superfast Business Cornwall is enabling AP Diving to undertake a strategic change to grow the business. The centrepiece of the project is the implementation of a new Customer Relationship Management / Enterprise Resource Planning system that will revolutionise how the company manages its information.

The project has already enabled AP Diving to expand their team and to put in place a VoIP telephone system. The project will deliver growth in all areas and will allow AP Diving to expand its national and international client base.

AgustaWestland is a world leader in the manufacturing and maintenance of helicopters and the training of pilots. Owned by Finmeccanica, AgustaWestland approached NQY in 2009 looking for a new home for their Operational Flight Training Centre.

AgustaWestland’s relocation took only 6 months from initial enquiry. Now the 402 hangar is home to the expanding presence of their Operational Flight Training Centre (OFTC). The OFTC delivers high-quality training for helicopter pilots, engineers and mission crews.

What the hangar incorporates:

• A helicopter hangar

• Briefi ng rooms and IT training rooms

• Currently accommodates 40 high-skilled jobs (pilots, engineers and ground crew) including 13 aircrew instructors.

AgustaWestland has invested over £1 million in this initiative (including £300,000 of ERDF Convergence investment).

The AgustaWestland OFTC runs helicopter fl ight training programmes for up to 60 students per annum, covering specifi c helicopter skills such as search and rescue and policing.

AgustaWestland is an established provider of professional training services and solutions to a wide range of military, civil and industrial customers.

It is committ ed to developing and expanding its training portfolio to meet both the current and future needs of all of its customers.

On their opening day, Graham Cole, Managing Director, AgustaWestland said “We are already seeing strong interest from military and public service helicopter operators around the world for the operational fl ying training services this new facility can deliver. The AgustaWestland Operational Flying Training Centre, here at Newquay Cornwall Airport, is not only bringing new highly skilled jobs to Cornwall but it will also benefi t local businesses and become known around the world as a centre of training excellence.”

The excellent training environment combined with the aviation services provided by Newquay Cornwall Airport are vital for AgustaWestland and, without the operational airfi eld, they would have to relocate elsewhere. The presence of AgustaWestland at the airport is likely to grow over time.

Ambbieennnt pressuree divingguided by Superfast Business Cornwall (page 17)

AuuguusttaaaWestlandenabled by Newquay Cornwall Airport Infrastructure (page 21)

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77

Spiiezia OOrganicsexpanded by Cornwall Innovation (page 37)

Organic skincare company Spiezia Organics recorded a record increase in profi ts of £34,000 and created three new jobs just a year aft er moving to be based at a Cornwall Innovation Centre..

Spiezia, an established, highly successful Cornish company manufacturing 100 per cent organic skincare products, moved to the Health and Wellbeing Innovation Centre (HWIC) in Truro shortly aft er the facility opened in January 2013.

The three award-winning business acceleration centres are operated by Plymouth University, and off er growing businesses targeted support to help them expand quickly. This support enabled Spiezia Organics to enjoy enormous growth in its fi rst year.

Amanda Barlow, managing director and owner of Spiezia Organics, said: “Moving to the Innovation centre has made an incredible diff erence to us and made the most amazing positive changes to how quickly we've been able to grow and expand.

“Profi tability has increased enormously; we've had a £34,000 net profi t increase in one year, which is a 100 per cent improvement on the previous year, and taken on four new members of staff with more being recruited all the time.”

Spiezia Organics started 12 years ago and Amanda bought out the company in 2007 from its original founders. It sells more than

35 diff erent skincare and body care products made using 100 per cent accredited organic ingredients, and tailored spa treatments using its products are off ered at some of the UK's leading spas and beauty treatment facilities, including Browns of Mayfair.

“We've been able to improve productivity, expand sales and the team at HWIC has really supported us in very tangible ways to grow quickly,” Amanda added.

“The help we've had from the HWIC staff has been phenomenal frankly, giving us leads and helping us to link in with other businesses and supporting us to grow and expand the company. I can't believe the diff erence in just one year.”

The HWIC has 41 offi ces and a 20-desk Formation Zone for start-up companies, as well as manufacturing and laboratory space. Businesses based there are primarily working in the health and lifestyle markets, and oft en fi nd opportunities to team up and work together.

A chance meeting in the centre’s kitchens recently led to Spiezia teaming up with a business which had recently moved in – Insite Digital. Aft er chatt ing over coff ee, the web-based company was recruited by Spiezia to build a new online shopping platform to help boost skincare sales.

Thee Graain Signn Comppanyfunded by BIG Investment (page 63)

Business Investment for Growth has supported over 180 businesses and allocated in excess of £3m of funding. The Grain Sign Company recieved investment through BIG.

We were successful in applying for 50% match-funded grant towards the capital investment costs of a large bed world leading laser cutt ing machine that enabled us to run laser based projects through in high volume production runs. This in turn increased throughput and reduced production times. The large laser cutt er also enabled us to handle much larger project volumes and introduce price breaks on larger quantities.

Since introducing the laser cutt er in October 2013 we have added three new employees to The Grain and expect to take on a new general apprentice within the next few weeks.

We achieved a growth rate to year end 2013 of 50% against the previous year, we had forecast 25%. The new laser cutt ing machine has been a signifi cant driver for the growth achieved. We are competitive within our market sector and at the moment have a full order book for the next 3 months. Future growth will continue to be driven

by streamlining our production methods and introducing improved production systems to ensure faster project turnarounds.

We are currently experiencing a 25-30% growth rate in our turnover to date in 2014 and we are confi dent of maintaining these rates in 2015 and beyond.

Suresense was launched in March 2012, and over the last two years we have advanced our solutions into three robust and innovative technologies which have already had international interest and success.

Because of the SWMAS grant that we have received, we have been able to fund product design, marketing and IP expertise that we may not have been able to do, or at least not in the timeframe we have. As a ‘start-up’ business Martyn saw our structured approach to growing our products and business generally and has really helped develop our thinking and methods.

Working with SWMAS has also been fantastic in helping us engage with other local manufacturers and we derive a lot of value in collaborating with the Cornwall Manufacturers Group that was introduced to us by Martyn.

From the partner marketing materials we have developed, we have been successful in striking a partnership with a number of new partners, one of which is the global electronics giant Hitachi and they are now in partnership with us to provide a bespoke product called ‘ProHestar’ to the energy saving market based on our technology.

This is a phenomenal endorsement of our technology and British manufacturing, and something we are very proud of here at Suresense. I think it’s important to note that in addition to our innovative smart product portfolio, our growth has been driven by our decision to partner with distributors, resellers and agents rather than direct sell to market ourselves. This is a far more scalable approach to developing our footprint globally.

Seasalt is a fashion brand based in Falmouth, Cornwall. The company has its roots in Penzance, and originally started when the Chadwick family walked into an Army and Navy store in Adelaide Street on a wet August day, looking for waterproof jackets. They bought the waterproof jackets, and in addition, the shop. The business sold useful and practical clothing to the farmers, fi shermen and artists of the area.

Those early days shaped the look of their brand and Seasalt continue to have strong links to Cornwall’s maritime and creative heritage. Their inspiration is refl ected in everything they do – the collections, their catalogues, website, branding and their marketing.

Seasalt sell to around 300 stockists and are stocked in most John Lewis branches across the UK.

They repeatedly appear in the Top 100 companies in Cornwall and Devon and have approximately 300 members of staff which is a mix of ‘home-grown talent’ and those with industry skills and experience from across the UK.

At the time of applying for ERDF investment, Seasalt saw an opportunity to grow its wholesale sales channel thanks to a shift in its competitors’ activity. When it was awarded, Seasalt’s turnover was £5.4m and the brand had ambitions to grow its turnover to £15m within 5 years. The grant enabled the business to take steps to create 23 new jobs as well as to relocate to larger business premises and to develop the company’s systems to improve effi ciency and management information.

“The ERDF grant was awarded to us at a time where we saw a clear opportunity for growth but lacked the bridging capital needed to back our vision,” says Leigh Chadwick, Joint Managing Director. “By maintaining a clear focus on strategic essentials and promoting the culture and heritage of the area we live in, we feel that we can have a very positive eff ect on our local community - great for us and great for Cornwall.”

Seaasaltfunded by GBI (page 59)

Surresennsefunded by SWMAS (page 62)

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All-Energy is the UK’s largest event devoted to all forms of clean and renewable energy. Invest in Cornwall helped a number of Cornish companies have a presence at the event giving them access to an annual average of 8,000 industry representatives from over 50 countries.

In 2013 Invest in Cornwall led on the design and coordination of a large stand at the exhibition. Under the branding of the South West Marine Energy Park, seven Cornish companies joined forces with businesses from the wider South West to promote the region as a key location for Marine Renewable Energy. Cornish att endees were: Wave Hub, Fab Test, Armada Hydraulics, Mojo Maritime, KML, Fugro Seacore, University of Exeter (Falmouth Campus).

Invest in Cornwall also organised a headlining seminar which took place on the fi rst day of All-Energy. The topic was: ‘Meeting the Marine Energy Challenge – How Supply Chain Innovation is Enabling Early Array Deployment’. Invest in Cornwall engaged with the Cornish supply chain to fi nd people able to speak authoritatively on the topic. The seminar was extremely well

att ended by some 65 industry professionals. The audience included device developers, university and research staff and other industry representatives. Feedback from the seminar was excellent and the event helped to raise Cornwall’s profi le by focussing on our region’s expertise and the strength of our supply chain. Stand att endees were very impressed with the quality of contacts they made and some large contracts were secured. One Cornish company generated over £500k worth of leads.

In 2014 Invest in Cornwall again orchestrated Cornwall’s presence at All-Energy. Designed and coordinated by Invest in Cornwall, The South West Marine Energy Park stand was an opportunity for Cornish companies, and those from the wider South West, to demonstrate the incredible array of testing facilities, expert advice and support developers can access in the region. Cornish participants were: KML, Mojo Martime, Armada Hydraulics, Wave Hub and Fab Test.

AAll Enneergyy 220133-144assisted by Invest In Cornwall (page 61)

NNatuuraally LLeaarnninggfunded by SWIG Finance Finance (page 66)

Naturally Learning, a small group of nurseries in Cornwall applied to SWIG Finance for a loan under the Convergence European Development Fund in order to support the refurbishment of their Poltair nursery.

Founded by Judith Chapman and Mandy Richardson, Naturally Learning started initially as a training company, delivering high quality training to Early Years Practitioners. Opening its fi rst nursery in 2012, Naturally Learning now consists of three nurseries across Cornwall which practice a child led philosophy in natural, stimulating environments allowing the children to choose, learn, develop and thrive.

Judith and Mandy sought a loan to invest in the refurbishment of their Poltair nursery which would allow the increase in numbers from 40 to 64 children. Declined fi nance from the bank for the project, Naturally Learning applied to SWIG Finance for a Convergence European Regional Development Fund loan via the Small Loans for Business scheme and were

successful in receiving £50K. The investment has already resulted in four new full times posts, contributing back into the economy.

Business Director Judith Chapman said: “The funding from the Convergence European Regional Development Fund which we accessed through SWIG Finance was invaluable to us and without it we wouldn’t have been able to complete our building work.

“It enabled us to fi nance the project aft er the bank had refused to and as a result many young children in our care are benefi tt ing.”

NNewqquaay FForesst SSchooolsupported by Outset (page 67)

WWhittee Goolddsupported by Social Enterprise Focus (page 68)

Jonathan Burfoot approached Outset Cornwall in late 2013 with an idea for creating Newquay Forest School, a supportive learning environment for children and young people, a place to help them overcome learning barriers and develop their confi dence and social skills.

“We are all born with unique gift s and talents, I wanted to create somewhere that helps children discover what they are good at, somewhere they can feel good about themselves; while simultaneously providing valuable support for parents, teachers or anyone that works with young people,” says Jonathan.

Through Outset’s Introduction to Enterprise sessions, Jonathan was able to examine his concept from various angles, develop practical plans for implementing his idea, with consideration given to market readiness, fi nance and marketing. The Outset team worked closely with Jonathan to help him to defi ne his strategy and develop a clear business plan both through the workshop series as well as one-on-one mentoring.

Newquay Forest School is registered as a social enterprise and overseen by an unincorporated group of members, drawn from the local community and all passionate about supporting youth.

Jonathan claims, “If there is one thing I’ve learned from the Outset it’s to pick your team well and surround yourself with people who encourage you”.

With the school growing in popularity, Jonathan and his team, including his wife Anna, now plan to launch similar projects in other locations across Cornwall and hopefully expand their reach nationally, through a subscription scheme and resource pack for schools and other youth organisations.

White Gold Cornwall CIC (WGC) was formed in April 2011 due to Government cut-backs which enforced the closure of White Gold Project which supported prolifi c young off enders. With the support of senior members within the county, WGC established an offi ce base at Cornwall Neigbourhoods for Change and with a positive commitment from team members, management and a newly formed Advisory Board, WGC off ered support for vulnerable, at risk, young people aged 10-19 years across the county. The signifi cant change for the service to sustain itself meant the referral agencies would have to pay for the service to support client-base, Social Care and Education being the main agencies.

WGC has always worked in partnership with other agencies, but on this occasion, whilst developing the business plan and potential opportunities, it was apparent the organisation would need additional support. Fortunately, Social Enterprise Focus (SEF) was off ering to support organisations such as WGC and we took full advantage of this off er. Key aspects to the development of WGC was to procure more work across the county with diff erent contractual organisations. In addition, WGC supported a

full business review to ensure we were fi t for purpose. As a result of the SEF support, WGC was in a much bett er position to provide an extended service to people aged 7-24 years, that need the most support which, therefore, benefi ts our county.

WGC recognises to sustain the organisation we need to diversify and also maintain our professional interest in our funding and, as a result, we have been able to contribute to the Safer, Stronger Consortium which hopes to provide Probation service due to their cut-backs. WGC has had signifi cant support from Devon and Cornwall Police which has resulted in an information exchange protocol which is believed to be nationally exceptional. It is hoped this protocol will also support Safer, Stronger Consortium and other potentialfuture developments.

WGC has instigated a pilot scheme, Trust 360, which off ers support to off enders who are being released from Camborne Police custody. WGC has just secured a contract with Job Centre Plus and Learning Partnership 180 and it is anticipated there are other opportunities that will be coming on-stream very soon.

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FFruugicoached by Oxford Innovation (page 60)

Innovative developments were a feature of

the programme including the development

of Director Peer Groups, where like-minded

individuals shared best practice and

collaborative learning; the Greenhouse, a

community of high growth start-ups and

Agile Innovation, a unique methodology that

accelerated product development, ensuring

that resource investment was maximised to

deliver cost eff ective, accelerated impact.

Businesses and individuals on a personal level recognised and appreciated the practical experience of the Oxford Innovation coaching team, benefi tt ing hugely from their knowledge and fi rst-hand involvement of running a business through both the highs and the lows. The results spoke for themselves showing outstanding value for money ratios and widespread peer group recommendation for the work of the programme. A signifi cant number of jobs were created or safeguarded by businesses in the region participating in this highly eff ective and successful programme.

In delivering the Coaching for High Growth programme for Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly Oxford Innovation’s team of specialist coaches

have worked with a diverse range of businesses from entrepreneurial start-ups to established fi rms looking to take the next step on their growth journey.

As no two businesses are the same, Oxford Innovation matches each client with the coach and programmes best suited to deliver sustainable results.

One of the established businesses to receive coaching and bespoke support in managing the complexities of rapid growth was Frugi, the designer and manufacturer of organic clothing for children and mothers. In addition to their regular dedicated coaching, company founder Lucy Jewson and her team joined Oxford Innovation’s Stepping Up programme, which places a particular emphasis on businesses experiencing exponential growth.

“Since our launch in 2004 we’ve experienced annual growth of almost 40 percent,” said Lucy. “The Coaching for High Growth and Stepping Up programmes have been an invaluable source of support for our business as rapid growth requires very careful planning and management.”

Wave Hub’s fi rst customer is Seatricity, a UK-based wave energy developer that intends to deploy up to 60 devices at Wave Hub, generating enough electricity to power around 10,000 homes.

The company has developed a patented wave energy device called Oceanus 2. This involves an aluminium fl oat on the surface of the sea that is tethered to blocks on the seabed. As the fl oat travels up and down with the waves it operates a pump to pressurise sea water. This in turn drives a hydroelectric turbine, which produces electricity.

Seatricity’s fi rst Oceanus 2 device was made by ship repair company A&P Falmouth on the south coast of Cornwall and has undergone tests at Wave Hub. The company said it was delighted with some “highly encouraging” early data from the performance of Oceanus 2 in only moderate waves.

Peter Mitchell, Managing Director of Seatricity, said: “The technology is scalable so once we complete our testing at Wave Hub we hope to move quickly to a full array.

“The fi nal array of up to 60 devices will generate 10MW of electricity - enough to power 10,000 homes – and would be one of the largest wave farms in the world. This, plus the export potential, will also hopefully be good for the Cornish economy in which we hope to play a full part now that we have moved our HQ to Cornwall.”

Wave Hub’s other customers include Finnish multi-national utilities company Fortum, which has a stake in Finnish wave energy developer Wello Oy. Wello’s Penguin device is based on a fl oating vessel that captures the kinetic energy of the waves and converts it into electrical power with a generator.

Another customer is Australia-based Carnegie Wave Power which is planning to deploy its CETO 6 device at Wave Hub. This involves fully submerged buoys that move with the motion of the passing waves to pressurise fl uid which is then used to drive hydro turbines and generators to produce electricity.

SSeatricityassisted by Wave Hub (page 47)

Based at Falmouth University, the Alacrity Falmouth programme is designed to catalyse the growth of a major digital games industry within Cornwall.

The innovative programme places talented graduates in teams that incubate into incorporated, investible companies with national and global reach.

Over the course of a year, students work full-time hours on real briefs set by high profi le industry partners. On completion of the programme, graduates achieve a Masters degree in Business Entrepreneurship and are ready to incorporate as a company.

The fi rst cohort of 20 began their studies in May 2014, working with partners including Sony Computer Entertainment, Centroid Motion Capture, the BBC and Goonhilly Satellite Earth Station. The programme att racted widespread interest from regional, national and specialist news outlets, culminating in a series of student blog entries featured in the gaming title Develop.

Dr Maria Stukoff , Head of Academic Development at Sony Computer Entertainment comments: “The UK games industry is renowned for its highly skilled workforce, and Alacrity Falmouth is central to incubating the next wave of talented game creators to drive our industry forward.”

Alacrity is based at Falmouth University’s Academy for Innovation & Research. Harnessing a refl ective learning programme, it helps the teams to overcome the humps that many businesses experience at the beginning of their life, priming them for success.

AAlaacrrityDeveloping digital gaming at Falmouth University (page 41)

Headed by Chris Pearce and Sonya Gibbs, B Skincare is a Cornwall based family business of ten years, hand-producing natural, high quality, aff ordable skincare products. As a growing business, B Skincare has received support from the Export Cornwall service and UK Trade & Investment to expand into Europe and beyond via an enhanced e-commerce platform.

B Skincare has been receiving help from UK Trade & Investment International Trade Adviser, Neil Roach, and support from Export Cornwall over the last 12 months and has already seen a huge impact on business growth. Through the service, B Skincare has been able to secure funding that has taken the business from a kitchen-table enterprise to full business operations from its own dedicated workshop facilities and offi ces just outside Bodmin.

The new facilities have transformed the way B Skincare is able to do business. The team

has expanded to seven people, enabling the company to operate on a larger scale, fulfi lling bigger orders more quickly and scaling up to meet the demand of their expanding UK and international customer base. The company has also been able to purchase more equipment to enable them to upscale their production line, while still staying true to their ethos of handmade, natural, quality products.

B Skincare is now fully equipped to fulfi l demand from overseas with ease. The company is expanding its horizons and is now taking orders from across mainland Europe, Ireland and the USA thanks to its new website and online order taking system.

BB SSkkinccarresupported by Export Cornwall (page 65)

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MMobile ttechh collaboraattiondeveloped by European Centre for Environment and Human Health (page 38)

A revolutionary research initiative in Cornwall is using mobile technology to transform the treatment of a rare and poorly understood condition.

Bringing together the region’s leading academic and digital experts, the project is shedding light on how the symptoms of Ménière’s Disease can be mitigated and managed.

Ménière’s is an inner ear condition that profoundly aff ects the hearing and balance of around 160,000 people in the UK, yet there are large gaps in our understanding of how the disease is triggered and develops – and how it impacts patients' lives.

In a bid to transform how we treat this chronic illness, the University of Exeter Medical School has partnered with Cornish digital company, Buzz Interactive, to develop a mobile application that can record symptoms on a daily basis.

The team are creating a database of information on the disease to help in their analysis and are feeding results straight back to suff erers – empowering them to manage their own symptoms more eff ectively.

Cornwall boasts a burgeoning and innovative digital

technology sector and working closely with the region’s private sector on co-created projects is changing the landscape of scientifi c research. Dr Jessica Tyrrell has led the Ménière’s study and believes its collaborative design has been essential to its success:

“Working with Buzz Interactive has meant that our application hasn’t just been benefi cial to researchers, but has also become a really useful tool for patients. It gives them unique feedback on how their condition is changing and has allowed us to recruit and retain large numbers of participants. Without Buzz’s insight, that’s something that almost certainly wouldn’t have featured.”

Linking the mobile app with weather information from the UK Met Offi ce, the research is also hoping to uncover associations between Ménière’s and meteorological conditions, a move that could see the tool used to send out early warning messages to people.

The collaboration has proved pivotal for Buzz Interactive, giving them invaluable experience in eHealth and spring-boarding their expansion into the

health and wellbeing sector. Lindsey Axten, Director at Buzz, said:

“As a result of our work with the University of Exeter, Buzz is now well positioned to make a move into the eHealth sector. Our success with the Ménière’s application has highlighted how technology can improve patient health and wellbeing, and we’re really proud to be playing an integral role in this kind of collaborative research.”

BButteermmilkk CooonffectiioneeryGetSet For Growth (page 64)

Butt ermilk Confections is one of the oldest businesses that GetSet For Growth has worked with, celebrating their 50th Anniversary in 2014.

Butt ermilk Confections produce high quality Cornish fudge using high-end ingredients and traditional copper pans to create a distinctive, authentic and delicious taste. With their range of Cornish confections already proving popular in the seasonal and tourism markets, in 2010 David and Tracy McDonnell-Goad took on the business from David’s parents. David and Tracy had growth ambitions to move their business forward and wanted GetSet’s help to plan for the realisation of these ambitions.

Tracy explains, “It was great working with the team at GetSet as they are an energetic team brimming with new ideas and have a great breadth of experience between them”

Butt ermilk worked with GetSet’s Marketing and Sales Specialist team to develop a marketing approach for new products. Looking fi rstly at the viability of a multiple brand approach, Butt ermilk sett led on moving one solid brand name forward and worked alongside GetSet to establish what were the right products for the national market.

Karen Hoyle, GetSet Advisor gives an overview of her work with Butt ermilk Confections, “It was a pleasure working with Butt ermilk Confections, with every meeting they made progress. GetSet helped provide focus and ensure that the main objectives were always kept in mind, whilst looking at de-risking the piloting of products, developing clear packaging options and a pricing strategy in line with competition. We were delighted to award Butt ermilk Confections our Marketing Growth Award this year as they have truly embraced and invested in growing their brand”

Butt ermilk Confections now intend to pilot their newly developed product range in an artisan coff ee chain, to gather feedback and fi nesse the range before launching to a wider audience. They have ambitious turnover growth targets for the future and will also be opening a new factory in Bodmin during 2015.

Source Energy, a multiple award-winning renewable energy company based in Grampound Road, is expanding rapidly thanks to a clear national growth strategy that Unlocking Potential helped turn into a reality.

Aft er impressive regional success, Managing Director Ben Hodges has focused on business growth. The business, which specialises in ground and air-source heat pump technology has experienced impressive regional success. Now Managing Director Ben Hodges is focusing on business growth, namely taking Source Energy’s successful business model to new markets around the UK with support from Fast Forward Groups. ‘We are at a key point, moving from a regional to a national business. As a modern company, we wanted to fi nd and att ract new customers and business opportunities’.

Ben spent three days with other business leaders who shared his aim of developing a robust online strategy for growth. Guided by a number of industry specialists, the group specifi cally focused on digital media strategy, leaving with the tools they needed to instigate change.

‘The group gave us a clear and eff ective strategy which we have been able to execute with the support of Unlocking Potential.’

Source Energy had previously worked with Unlocking Potential on a variety of business-related challenges that helped both Ben and his management team focus on taking the business forward and maximising opportunities. Ben found that the time he took out of the business with other leaders during the Fast Forward Group helped clarifi ed his thinking.

‘It’s easy to get caught in a bubble, especially at the top. It can be a lonely role as you don’t get much feedback from the people around you. Having independent, fresh eyes looking at what you’re doing or trying to do helps to refi ne your ideas’.

With growth in mind Ben added ‘working with the Fast Forward Group has meant were able to generate some key new ideas which we are implementing as part of our national growth strategy’. So it’s all eyes to a bright future for Source Energy.

EEneergissingg buusinnesss grrowtthunlocking potential (page 69)

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1 About the Programme. In 2006 Cornwall and Isles of Scilly (C&IoS) were lagging behind the rest of the UK economy hence the European allowance. Today we have many investments realised that perhaps wouldn’t have happened without European investment, but before Convergence started C&IoS had issues which have historically placed us behind other UK areas in terms of economic output. Our region suff ered due to a lack of capital investment, coupled with a long history of poor industrial infrastructure made businesses struggle to trade eff ectively, especially with the lag in the travel time to major markets. These factors were also further hindered by the lack of skills opportunities in seasonal or low level employment together these problems accounted for the poor performance of the region.

Due to these factors C&IoS was awarded special status from Europe as the region qualifi ed for a special package of investment to help improve our economic position and remain competitive in the future. This investment package was called Convergence. The world economy was especially buoyant during that time and accordingly the Convergence Programme set out with high ambitions and targets to refl ect our drive for transformation. However, a lot has changed in the world economy since then, when the worldwide recession hit, it had a huge impact on the UK economy – and its repercussions rippled into C&IoS.

Despite these challenges, the European

Regional Development Fund (ERDF) Convergence Programme pressed on committ ed to establishing the momentum for transforming C&IoS into a high value added economy – where knowledge, environment and quality of life underpin sustainable economic growth.

To achieve this we have worked in partnership with both the public and private sectors to develop and deliver local investments to improve growth, productivity and prosperity within the region. Within 3287 days the achievements of the Programme are evident, and whilst some of the results and benefi ts won’t be fully realised until long aft er the Programme closes and the next Programme is up and running, this book takes you on a journey to discover how European investment helped change our region for the bett er.

2 Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly qualifi ed for Convergence in 2005 because its economic performance between 2000 and 2002 had been below 75% of the European Union average. Convergence is the third signifi cant European programme (following 1994-99 Southwest Objective 5b and 2000-06 Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly Objective One Programmes) that the region has benefi ted from.

3 The investment in a brand new superfast network was just the beginning. The programme recognised that economic benefi t will only be achieved through high levels of take up and the capability of the new technology being exploited to its full

potential.

Superfast Cornwall lead the way in many ‘add on’ programmes designed to realise the impact on the local economy and society:

• Demand stimulation – The Superfast Cornwall marketing team have developed successful marketing campaigns to ensure take up of fi bre broadband. Communications was across advertising, online and social media channels have achieved some of the highest take up in the UK. Eff ort was directed at the heart of the community and tailoring the approach according to each area.

• Digital inclusion – National Statistics show that about 15% of adults in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly have never used the internet. Superfast Cornwall has helped to address this very real issue of digital exclusion by providing free computer training to more than 2,500 computer novices in Cornwall. Working with BT’s Digital Inclusion programme, Get IT Together, and the UK charity Citizens Online and a network of volunteers, all att endees have learned practical skills and gained an understanding of the benefi ts the internet can bring to them.

• Research & Innovation – Superfast Cornwall Labs is a collaborative activity that investigated current thinking, research, technology developments and trends to push the boundaries of what is possible through superfast broadband and to bring value to the economy. Activities included collaborating with universities to undertake

research into e-health, sustainable digital neighbourhoods and outreach education. Four PhDs were supported with local universities at Falmouth and Plymouth universities, 4G wireless, global technology scouting and proof of concept of 10Gbps XG-PON technology trials were undertaken. In addition the evaluation programme has provided research which identifi es the real impact of superfast broadband on the economy and social and environmental benefi ts.

• Environmental benefi t – Access to superfast broadband has signifi cant environmental benefi ts to Cornwall and Isles of Scilly making it easier to work from home, use video conferencing rather than travel to meetings and reducing the cost of travel. It also helps reduce energy use. Cloud computing has become a reality for many businesses taking away the need for energy-hungry servers and allowing VPN (Virtual Private Networks) to allow remote access.

• Skills programme – A vital key to unlocking the full potential of superfast broadband, the programme has engaged with local training organisations to ensure the businesses in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly have access to the training provision they need.

• A&P ltd• Acorn Developments Ltd• Apple Aviation Ltd• Arts Lott ery• Balanus Assets Ltd• BBCB Ltd• Bromleighs Ltd• Brownfi eld Investments Ltd• BT Group PLC• Building Research Establishment (BRE) Ltd• Calidus Engineering Ltd• Carleys Ltd• Chenoweth Business Park Ltd• Clear Flow Ltd• Clickety Books Ltd• Coastal Marine Ltd• Cornish Crabbers LLP• Cornwall Air Ambulance Trust • Cornwall College• Cornwall College Skills Funding Agency • Cornwall Council• Cornwall Development Company (CDC)• Cornwall Neighbourhood For Change • Cornwall School for Social Entrepreneurs• Cornwall Sustainable Building Trust• Council of the Isles of Scilly• CUC

• Dartmouth Wave Energy Limited and Ecotricity Group Limited

• DB Gilbert• DECC• Dental School Capital Funds • Department for Transport• DP Engineering Ltd• Duchy of Cornwall • Engineered Arts Ltd• Environment Agency• European Springs and Pressings Ltd• Exeter University• Falmouth Harbour Commissioners• Falmouth University• Fortdown Developments Ltd• Goonvean Ltd• Green EFW Investments Ltd• Hallenbeagle Estates Ltd• HCA • Headcast Ltd• HEFCE• Hendra TC & CP Ltd• HG Sites Ltd• Higher Education Funding Council for

England• Historic Building Preservation Trust• Homes and Community Agency

• Hydramaster Ltd• Income from Businesses supported • Indian Developments Ltd• Insider Knowledge Ltd• Jarrang Ltd • KEO Energyshare Ltd• Kernow Coatings Ltd• Krowji Ltd• Learning Skills Council• Mark Product Ltd• Marlin Properties Ltd• Metalcraft Cornwall Ltd• Mi-Generation Consultancy Ltd• Mojo Marine Ltd• My First Day Ltd• National Growth Point• Nature Paint Ltd • Network Rail • NHS Dental School Capital Funds• Pall Manufacturing UK Ltd• Pendennis Shipyard (Holdings)Ltd• Peninsula College of Medicine & Dentistry• Plymouth University• Polymermedics Ltd • Practical Developments Ltd• Priority Sites Ltd• R M Developments

• Real Ideas Organisation• Robotmother Ltd• Rustlers Yacht Ltd• Sea Change International • Seasalt Ltd • Serco Regional Services Ltd• South Kerrier Alliance Community

Interest Company • Spiral Construction Ltd• St Agnes Island Hall & Reading Room• St Austell Print Co Ltd• Strategic Health Authority• SWRDA Single Pot• SWRDA Single Programme• Teagle Machinery Ltd• Thorne Developments Ltd• Truro and Penwith College• UKTI• University College Falmouth• University of Exeter• Walker Threemilestone Ltd• Watergate Bay Hotel • Watson Marlow Ltd• Wheal Harmony Ltd• Woodskou Ltd• WPD Property Investments Ltd

The ERDF Convergence Programme wouldn’t have been

possible without our benefi ciaries and partners:

While every eff ort has been made to ensure that information is correct at the time of going to print, ERDF Convergence cannot be held responsible for the outcome of any action or decision based on the information contained within this publication. The publishers or authors do not give any warranty for the completeness or accuracy of this publication’s content, explanation or opinion. No part of this publication and may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitt ed in any form without prior consent of the Publisher.

© ERDF Convergence 2015. All rights reserved.

Find out more...www.erdfconvergence.org.uk

Photography used with kind permission from:

Simon Burt

Stewart Girvan

Kirsten Prisk

Paddy Bradley Collection

Steven Haywood

Mark Yeoman

Toby Weller

Jones Millbank

Dronescope

Light Colour Sound

Alex Walker

Cartel Photos

Mike Searle

Sanna Fisher-Payne

Matt Jessop

Artur Tixiliski

Natalie Legg

www.erdfconvergence.org.uk

Published March 2015

Cornwall Council

Economic Development and Culture

Economy, Enterprise and Environment Directorate

Cornwall Council

4th Floor, West Wing

New County Hall

Truro TR1 3AY