European Investment For West Cornwall Transport Hub
Up to £5,400,000 of European funding has been secured to create a modern transport hub that will serve West Cornwall. The project is part of the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Growth Programme.
The European Regional Development Funding (ERDF) has been matched by £4.69m of investment from Cornwall Council and the Growth Deal and will be used to develop the area around St Erth railway station.
The Multi Modal Hub project will connect the Cornwall rail main line, A30 Trunk road, St. Ives rail park and ride service and the strategic Cornwall bus network and support adjacent employment space. This will enhance the capacity, attractiveness and commercial viability of public transport, attract new business and inward investment, secure further improvements at St Erth Station from private transport operators and reduce the high dependence on private car transport which is prevalent in West Cornwall.
Users of the new facilities can expect new pedestrian crossings, improved cycle and pedestrian facilities, cycle storage and an increase in the number of available car parking spaces all delivered in a landscaped environment.
The completed project will bring together and coordinate the transport offer helping residents in the area access work as well as creating an attractive travel solution for West Cornwall’s visiting tourists. The project is expected to complete in summer 2018.
Julian German, Cornwall Council’s Portfolio Holder for Economy, said, “I’m really pleased we have secured this important investment that will support our residents to commute into and out of West Cornwall to access jobs and to be able to enjoy the fantastic environment. It also has the added bonus of enhancing the transport offer to the tourists we welcome each year which should reduce congestion on the roads.”
Cornwall Council cabinet member for Transport Bert Biscoe said, “This significant investment is not only welcome, but indicative of the way in which EU investment continues to help Cornwall set up the structures it needs to foster a positive and enduring economy. It will provide a modern public transport focus that will be a key part of the new single public transport system for Cornwall, and will alleviate traffic pressures on St Ives and the surrounding villages. It will be important to ensure that the infrastructure and landscaping fit in with their surroundings, supporting St Erth and merging easily into this important rural setting, taking as little good quality farmland as possible.”
Notes to editor
European Regional Development Fund
The project has received up to £5,400,000 of funding from the England European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) as part of the European Structural and Investment Funds Growth Programme 2014-2020. The Department for Communities and Local Government is the Managing Authority for ERDF. Established by the European Union ERDF funds help local areas stimulate their economic development by investing in projects which will support innovation, businesses, create jobs and local community regenerations. For more information visit https://www.gov.uk/european-growth-funding
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St Erth Multi Modal Hub General Layout Plan
Contact
For further information please contact Alex Ledbrooke, Engagement Officer, Cornwall and Isles of Scilly ITI Support Team (European Structural and Investment Funds)
Mobile – 07854 039960, Tel – 01872 322693, Email – aledbrooke@cornwall.gov.uk
Website – www.cornwallislesofscillygrowthprogramme.org.uk
Twitter – @GrowthProgramme
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