Economic Development

The role of the Council of the Isles of Scilly in promoting Economic Development is fundamental to the Islands’ on-going growth and sustainability. The wider growth agenda embraces more than the promotion and growth of the economy but must fully embrace the wider issues presented by the challenges of climate change, nature recovery, population demographics, housing demand and the Islands’ core economic activities of tourism and farming.

We will work closely with Cornwall Council through the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Economic Forum and Economic Prosperity Board to deliver projects funded by the Shared Prosperity Fund that have been facilitated through the Good Growth and Community Levelling Up Funds.

Maintaining the economy of the islands is imperative to the long-term sustainability of the community. In the light of the future pressures arising from climate change the Council will seek to promote an atmosphere of entrepreneurism to support the supply of well-paid jobs with career prospects that are necessary to retain a balanced and viable population. This must be supported through the provision of affordable housing and community facilities that are both accessible and wide ranging. Of equal importance is the protection and preservation of the outstanding natural environment that is both the basis of our economy and the rationale behind the choice of many to live and work in our community. Economic Development on the Isles of Scilly integrates the principles of environment, economy, community, sustainability and equality of opportunity in all of its actions.

We have outlined our ambitions for Economic Growth in the attached Island Futures Strategic Economic Strategy (published Summer 2022).

We have worked with the local business community and residents to bring forward viable propositions that have improved the economic output of the Islands by reducing barriers to employment and the workplace. Added value has been gained by raising the value of existing products, developing opportunities to diversify the business base and by delivering skilled and well-paid employment opportunities. We have also sought to develop the skills and training that complement the Islands’ business needs. We have improved access to business support mechanisms and Higher and Further Education resources that can improve business performance

Historically , the Economic Development unit has worked on a number of EU funded projects including the Isles of Scilly Voucher Scheme, Porthcressa Regeneration Scheme, the St Agnes Island Hall Project, the St Mary’s Quay Project, Airport Projects at both Lands End and St Mary’s, Porthmellon Innovation Centre Project and the Porthloo Slip Project.

The Team has also been instrumental in administering the Business Energy Efficiency Scheme and COVID Business Support activity.