Business Cornwall Nov 20

CORNWALL'S PREMIER BUSINESS RESOURCE FOR ALL THE LATEST NEWS AND OPINION

businesscornwall.co.uk

NOVEMBER 2020 | ISSUE 142 | £3.95

FIELD OF DREAMS

BUNNYHOMES FOUNDER TRACEY KENT

PROPERTY REVIEW

SECTOR SPOTLIGHT

WISH LIST

CORNISH STOCKING FILLER GIFTS 11

11 9 772514

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We are calling all local businesses, community groups, schools and sports clubs to support CAAT in 2021.

Following the effects of a global pandemic, the charity is predicting a ÂŁ1m loss. We urgently need your support to increase donations over the next 12 months to reduce this deficit.

Find out how your organisation can get involved:

Please choose

Cornwall Air Ambulance Trust as your charity partner in 2021

cornwallairambulancetrust.org 01637 889926 enquiries@cornwallairambulancetrust.org Cornwall Air Ambulance Trust, Trevithick Downs, Newquay, Cornwall TR8 4DY | Registered charity 1133295 |

@cornwallairamb

NOVEMBER 2020

INSIDE FEATURES 12 CEO INTERVIEW TRACEY KENT, FOUNDER OF HOUSING DEVELOPER BUNNYHOMES

17 PROPERTY REVIEW CORNWALL BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE

34 TOWNS FUND FOUR TOWNS RECEIVE FIRST FUNDING FROM £3.6BN LEVELLING UP SCHEME

44 CHRISTMAS WISH LIST SOME IDEAS FOR YOUR LETTER TO SANTA

ISSUE 142

REGULARS 4 INCOMING VIRTUAL MEETINGS HERE TO STAY?

6 BUSINESS NEWS MANCHESTER FLIGHTS RETURN

36 EDUCATION & TRAINING NEWS SAINTS AT TRURO SCHOOL

37 FOOD & DRINK CORNWALL HAS UK’S ‘MOST EXCITING FOOD SCENE’

38 CREATIVE & DIGITAL NEW SIGNAGE COMPANY

39 FSB NEWS FROM FEDERATION OF SMALL BUSINESSES

40 TOURISM SHARE A SMILE CAMPAIGN

41 CHAMBER NEWS LATEST FROM CORNWALL CHAMBER

42 ON THE MOVE WHO’S GONE WHERE

43 JUST A THOUGHT CORNWALL CHAMBER CEO KIM CONCHIE

46 CONNECTED WHAT’S GONE WHERE

48 THE LAST WORD DATA DUOPOLY CEO TANUVI ETHUNANDAN

PHOTO: THE FINAL STRAW SEE PAGE 8 FOR FULL STORY

BUSINESS CORNWALL | 1

NOVEMBER 2020

CORNWALL'S PREMIER BUSINESS RESOURCE FOR ALL THE LATEST NEWS AND OPINION

businesscornwall.co.uk

NOVEMBER 2020 | ISSUE 142 | £3.95

FFIELD IELD O OFF DREAMS DREAMS

BUNNYHOMES FOUNDER TRACEY KENT

PROPERTY REVIEW

SECTOR SPOTLIGHT

WISH LIST

CORNISH STOCKING FILLER GIFTS 11

WELCOME

BY EDITOR NICK EYRIEY

ISSUE 142

ON SOLID FOUNDATIONS

11 9 772514

842001

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ON THE COVER BUNNYHOMES FOUNDER, TRACEY KENT – SEE PAGE 12 EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Nick Eyriey nick@businesscornwall.co.uk PUBLISHER Toni Eyriey toni@businesscornwall.co.uk BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Morveth Ward morveth@businesscornwall.co.uk ACCOUNT MANAGER Caroline Carter caroline@businesscornwall.co.uk

In this issue we focus on the property sector.

Possibly one of the most surprising things to emerge from lockdown was the sudden upturn in the housing market.

As we plunged into lockdown in March, like most things, the housing the market ground to an instant standstill as people were stuck at home.

But as restrictions were eased, the market went through the roof. Perhaps thinking about it more, we shouldn’t be so surprised. Stuck at home, people have had the time to reassess and reflect on their lives. And for many, that has meant thoughts of moving home, maybe in search of more space, a garden, a better lifestyle.

In the residential sector, agents have been saying they can’t remember a busier time.

However, there are two sides to the coin in the property sector, with a few more challenges in the commercial property sector, particular in retail and office space.

CONTRIBUTORS PFA Research, Toby Weller DESIGN Ade Taylor design@businesscornwall.co.uk PRINT Printed in Cornwall by Deltor BUSINESS CORNWALL is published 10 times a year by: Tonick Business Publishing Pool Innovation Centre Trevenson Road Redruth TR15 3PL Tel: 01209 718688

SUBSCRIPTIONS subscriptions@businesscornwall.co.uk Registered under the Data Protection Act. All rights reserved No part of this publication may be reproduced, copied, stored in an electronic retrieval system or transmitted without the written permission of the publisher.

Stringent efforts have been made by Business Cornwall magazine to ensure accuracy.

However, due principally to the fact that data cannot always be verified, it is possible that some errors or omissions may occur. Business Cornwall magazine can not accept responsibility for such errors or omissions. Business Cornwall magazine accepts no responsibility for comments made by interviewees that may offend.

However, as is often the way, from adversity can spring opportunity. In this issue we look at both sides of the coin in a comprehensive review of the Cornish property sector, including a feature interview with the founder of one of Cornwall’s fastest growing housing developers, bunnyhomes.

Business Cornwall Magazine is proud to be associated with

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THE CONVERSATION

BROCK

Your Partnerships

The big question Once the pandemic is finally over, do you think you will continue to have business meetings online or will it all be back to being in person?

Join the conversation @biz_cornwall

/businesscornwall

businesscornwall.co.uk

ADVERTORIAL

We survey our members and the latest survey showed that just over 68% of our members actually prefer online to face to face meetings. The other statistic showed that 88% of the members wanted some form of both online and face to face meetings in the future when face to face meetings are allowed to return. We have also had a few members that were very active at face to face meetings drop out of online meetings as they don’t like the experience as much. We do offer one to one meetings face to face with our members and happy to take online one to ones to discuss the process of getting more out of online meetings. So, we at Your Partnerships will continue to survey our members to guide us to the need of both online and face to face in the future.

The results of online meetings cannot be denied. Before online, Your Partnerships across all areas was holding 8 - 12 events face to face across all areas with total weekly attendance of 155 on average.

Now with online meetings we are currently holding 20-25 events per week with an average attendance of 620 per week.

This growth would never have happened as fast via face to face meetings only.

CHALLENGING TIMES FOR COMMERCIAL LANDLORDS Following the Government’s announcement that protection for commercial tenants during Coronavirus would be extended until the end of 2020, Richard Bagwell, head of Property Litigation at leading South West law firm Stephens Scown LLP, warns that there are further challenging times ahead for commercial landlords.

4 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

Just before Covid-19, the team of Your Partnerships were preparing for online networking. The first online event was held on March 19, just ahead of the lockdown.

We have been keeping on careful eye on the evolutions of online networking and how it will work as we were new to the process as much as the next person.

As the law currently stands, until 1 January 2021, a landlord of commercial premises whose tenant owes arrears of rent cannot: • Forfeit (terminate) a commercial tenancy on the grounds of rent arrears; or • Present a statutory demand or winding-up petition; or

THE CONVERSATION

In addition, the future is amazingly bright as over the past few months we have added; Bath and Somerset, Bristol, Hampshire, Isle of Wight and Dorset. We will soon be adding: Reading, Kent, Essex, Birmingham, Newcastle, Manchester, Cardiff, Northumberland and all of Scotland. We have even added Global areas of South Africa, Australia, Europe, USA and Latin America. So, the availability of meetings will increase and the attendance will soon be in the thousands per week.

GARY HALL Webmate

‘In person’ will probably seem like a luxury and be overdone to extremes when the pandemic is over. People will arrange meetings like there’s no tomorrow: we’ll be meeting with our bank manager to request a new pin, meeting with the operator to enquire about a telephone number search, there’ll be tea and biscuits rolled out for the people normally ringing to see if we want to change our energy supplier and even we’ll all be setting out name-cards and flipcharts for the Deliveroo drivers (not that we get much of those kind of civilised perks here in Cornwall). It’ll fade, after a few months, we’ll be back to normal and probably realise virtual’s pretty efficient after all - and means there’s always biscuits spare in the canteen.

Zoom and our investment in technology.

Going forward I expect there will be a mixture of on-line and face-to-face meetings. Ultimately, we will ensure that we always look to meet our client’s needs and are as agile as possible in our approach.

It is very clear that for some on-line meetings are more convenient and give flexibility especially where there are multiple people are in different locations whilst others prefer the face to face contact and the novelty of online has long warn off!

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We have all benefitted from spending less time travelling to and from meetings and I cannot see that we are ever going to go back to doing so as frequently as we did before. However, I do miss the personal contact and there will always be some business meetings which should be face to face, with new clients for example, or to brainstorm or even deal personally with a situation that has become difficult.”

ANN VANDERMEULEN FSB Cornwall

Francis Clark

I often ask myself where we as a business community would have been if Covid had hit 5/10 years ago before Skype, Teams or

Business people are only human and we need to be with other humans from time to time.

• Use CRAR (Commercial Rent Arrears Recovery) unless there are more than 276 days’ rent outstanding (increasing to 366 days’ rent from 25 December 2020).

1Gbps

HELEN WILLETT

I’ve enjoyed the respite from rushing to endless meetings, however the novelty has worn off. Most utilitarian meetings will remain online and we’ll be more selective about going out but we’ve all missed those great catch ups where ideas fly.

BRIAN HARVEY

INCOMING

tenants use insolvency procedures to require landlords to accept reduced or even turnover rents, such as appears to be the case with New Look for some of its store rents. Other tenants may try to follow the same path.

These measures may protect tenants, but for landlords who have not received rents since March, their only remedy for now is to issue a court claim for the arrears of rent.

Some large tenants have refused to pay rent altogether and others are paying only a fraction of the rent in the knowledge that landlords cannot terminate their leases.

Although turnover rents are not new, they may well become more common in the retail sector. If they become more common, landlords should be aware that the Court does have a discretion to order a turnover rent on a business tenancy renewal under Part II of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1954.

Adding to the woes of commercial landlords have been the number of company voluntary arrangements (CVA) and administrations announced on the High Street, as commercial

Where does this leave landlords? In practice, many could find themselves waiting for rents or being forced to accept a lower rent for some time to come.

If you would like to discuss commercial tenancies and protections please call Richard on 01392 210700, email solicitors@stephens-scown.co.uk or visit www.stephens-scown.co.uk.

Richard Bagwell is ranked by Legal 500 and Chambers and Partners as a leading individual for Real Estate Litigation in the South West.

BUSINESS CORNWALL | 5

CORNWALL

BUSINESS NEWS

SPONSORED BY

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‘ELON MUSK-STYLE DISRUPTION’ A Cornish business has collaborated in the manufacture of a “revolutionary” new helicopter.

Saltash-based Composite Integration has used its extensive experience in closedmould and infusion process technology to design and manufacture tooling and first off

St Austell Printing Company (SAPC) has joined the Surfers Against Sewage (SAS) 250 Club.

adventure, comfort, and elegance”.

components for the high-performance composite fuselage of the HX50 Hill Helicopter.

“The helicopter industry has long awaited an Elon Musk-style disruption that redefines the modern helicopter. The wait is over,” enthused Dr Jason Hill, CEO of Hill Helicopters.

The HX50 is a 5-seat, turbine-powered, 500-horsepower rotorcraft. It is described as “the world’s first truly private, luxury helicopter crafted to deliver a whole new experience in safety, performance,

The HX50 is currently in the advanced design phase, with three prototypes scheduled to begin flight testing in 2022.

The first deliveries are anticipated to take place in 2023.

PRINTER JOINS SAS

Based in St Agnes, SAS is a national charity dedicated to the protection of oceans, waves, beaches and wildlife. The 250 Club is a business membership scheme designed to support SAS in its ongoing campaigns to help protect the UK’s coastal environment.

SAPC’s operations manager, Beth Mayman, said: “We’re passionate about

sustainability and the environment.

“Being based in Cornwall and overlooking St Austell Bay we have a particular interest in ensuring our oceans and marine life are looked after. Many members of our team and their families choose to spend time around the coastline and we also have a couple of talented surfers here too.

We’re very pleased to support SAS in the important work they do raising awareness of the challenges our seas face.”

ADVERTORIAL

CAPITAL GAINS TAX – WHAT LIES AHEAD FOR BUSINESS OWNERS Capital gains charges arise for business owners when they sell or gift interests in their business or in an asset used in the business.

Business asset disposal relief (formerly “entrepreneurs’ relief”) reduces the rate of tax payable, other reliefs delay the tax charge by holding or rolling the gain over.

6 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

Currently assets inherited on someone’s death are treated as acquired at their market value at the date of death (“capital gains uplift on death”).

This capital gains uplift on death can mean that held-over or rolled-over gains never come into charge.

POSSIBLE CHANGES In July 2019, the OTS Inheritance Tax Review identified that the capital gains uplift on death did not encourage the passing on of assets and businesses during a person’s lifetime and so hindered business succession. Instead they proposed that

BUSINESS NEWS

SPONSORED BY

CORNWALL

sapc.co.uk

MILES AWAY FROM SPACEPORT Falmouth Harbour Commissioners (FHC), the statutory body responsible for managing the trust port of Falmouth harbour, has announced Miles Carden as its new CEO. For the past five years, Carden has spearheaded the Spaceport Cornwall project at Cornwall Council, securing inward investment from Virgin Orbit, and was previously Enterprise Zone Manager for the Aerohub at Cornwall Airport Newquay.

As CEO of FHC, in addition to being responsible for managing in excess of 16 square miles of harbour area and steering the business arms of FHC - Falmouth Pilot Services and Falmouth Haven - he will represent the port at the highest levels across the maritime sector.

the capital gains tax uplift be removed on assets covered by inheritance tax reliefs or exemptions on death.

The tax and accountancy institutes and business thinktanks appear to support this change. It is possible, therefore, that the capital gains uplift on death will disappear next year.

This change along with a possible rise in capital gains tax rates should be considered when deciding whether to take advantage of any roll-over or hold-over reliefs.

Additionally, any recent claims should be revisited, and consideration given to disapplying reconstruction relief where

As a chartered surveyor with a background in economic development and project delivery in both the public and private sector, Carden brings extensive experience and a varied skill set to the role. Having lived in St Mawes most of his life, he has worked, lived and grown up alongside Falmouth Harbour and is a successful racing helmsman and RYA race coach.

SIP Trunks with all UK calls included £7.50 /channel

“I am massively excited to join FHC as CEO,” he said. “Falmouth Harbour is globally recognised and is a unique place with a stunning natural environment. The harbour is in my DNA and this role gives me the opportunity to be directly involved with maximising its future potential.”

Carden will take up his new post in January.

shares have been issued in lieu of cash consideration.

There are still calls from some parties for business asset disposal relief (formerly “entrepreneurs’ relief”) to be scrapped. We, however, consider that this relief will remain in some form for trading businesses.

this the time to evaluate exit plans to secure current rates and reliefs? We can also check if the documentation you currently have in place reflects your wishes and discuss options to mitigate your exposure to future tax charges.

WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR YOU? Take time now to consider your plans. Do not assume that popular tax reliefs will apply to you or that the current low rates of capital gains tax will continue. Consider a meeting with us to discuss your succession plans. Is

Contact your local partner, Malcolm Peters, Truro malcolm.peters@azets.co.uk azets.co.uk

BUSINESS CORNWALL | 7

CORNWALL

BUSINESS NEWS

SPONSORED BY

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BIRTHDAY HONOURS

Two prominent Cornish business figures have featured in the Queen’s Birthday honours list.

man behind the tea-growing enterprise at Tregothnan, which exports to countries across the world, including China.

Jonathon Jones was awarded an OBE in recognition for his services to international trade.

Lucy Jewson, meanwhile, was awarded an MBE for ethical clothing design. She cofounded children’s organic clothing brand, Frugi, along with her husband Kurt in 2004.

As MD of Trading at Tregothnan, he is the

FINAL VICTORY

LIFELINE FUNDING FOR CULTURE SECTOR

Cornwall campaign group The Final Straw has been celebrating a “monumental victory” as a ban on single-use plastic straws, stirrers and cotton buds has come into force throughout England.

The measure makes it illegal for businesses to sell or supply these single-use plastic items in the UK. The policy was due to start in April 2021 but has been brought forward.

“This campaign has been a big contributor to the wider plastic pollution conversation and has gone on to actually influence policy - an amazing feeling and win for everyone involved,” commented James Neale, cofounder of the campaign.

The Final Straw Cornwall was established four years ago, launching officially in October 2017. The movement was founded by Pat Smith, environmental activist and owner of Bosinver Farm Cottages, and James Neale, creative director at Idenna Creative.

Smith, also known as ‘Action Nan,’ said that while The Final Straw might have won the battle against single-use plastic straws, the war is far from over. “We will continue to challenge the status quo on environmental issues,” she said. “One of the things we’re currently focusing on is the tidal wave of littered PPE that’s threatening to overwhelm our environment. There is absolutely no excuse for dropping this or any kind of litter put it in the bin or take it home for collection.”

8 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

The National Maritime Museum Cornwall (NMMC) has been awarded £485k through the Government’s £1.57 billion Culture Recovery Fund.

felt impossible. The news we have been awarded such a significant sum from the Government’s Cultural Recovery Fund is a real lifeline for us.”

Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden said the investment is a vital “boost” for “cultural beacons” across the country.

The museum is just one of a number of local organisations to receive first round funding.

Others include Penzance’s Golowan Festival (£50k), Bernard Leach Trust (£53k), Cornwall Music Service Trust (249k), Cornwall Theatre Company (£82k), Creative Kernow (£50k), Golden Tree Productions (£81k), Miracle Theatre (£72k), Museum of Cornish Life (£56k), Nubsound (£75k), Telegraph Museum Porthcurno (£164k), Truro Business Hub (£219k), Whiskers Newquay £127k).

The investment will help save hundreds of theatres, galleries, performance groups, arts organisations, museums, music venues and heritage organisations facing the challenges of the coronavirus pandemic, to ensure they have a sustainable future and continue to bring joy to local communities and international audiences.

NMMC director, Richard Doughty called the funding a “a real lifeline”.

He said: “Since lockdown in March, National Maritime Museum Cornwall’s future has been uncertain. Vital revenue streams disappeared overnight, and our ability to remain a part of our community, here in Cornwall,

Bodmin & Welford Railway (£260k), Bodmin Jail Museum (£202k), Cornwall Aviation Heritage Centre (£53.2k), Jubilee Pool Penzance (£49k), Lynher River Barge CIC (£62.4k), Pendeen Community Heritage (£186.3k), Tresco Estate Partnership (£262.5k), the Vale of Avalon/Arthurian Centre (20k) and Truro Cathedral (£146.9k).

BUSINESS NEWS

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CORNWALL

sapc.co.uk

PM BOOSTS OFFSHORE WIND AMBITIONS

NEWS IN BRIEF Cornish Lithium has closed its crowdfunding round on Crowdcube after raising £5.2 million in just three days.

Founder and CEO, Jeremy Wrathall, said: “We set out to raise £1.5 million. To be so massively oversubscribed in only three days is an amazing vote of confidence in Cornish Lithium, the team, and our plans for the creation, in Cornwall, of a vital new industry for the UK economy.” ____________________

The Prime Minister’s pledge to create 1GW of floating offshore wind energy by 2050 could be a huge economic and environmental boost for Cornwall and the south west.

In his speech to the Conservative Party virtual annual conference last month, Boris Johnson pledged to power every home in Britain with offshore wind energy within a decade.

The pledge is being seen as huge boost to floating offshore wind ambitions in Cornwall and the south west, which have been led by the LEP for the last two years. Apart from Scotland, the Celtic Sea is the only other part of the UK where floating wind turbines can be deployed at scale.

This month will see the formal submission of

a Cornwall-led £30+ million funding bid for Government investment to accelerate the creation of a floating offshore wind industry in the region as part of a £64 million project.

LEP director Steve Jermy, who is also executive chair of Wave Hub, said: “We’re delighted with the Prime Minister’s support because it recognises the huge contribution floating wind can make to the UK’s renewables targets and the thousands of jobs that would result.

“The deployment of floating wind farms off Cornwall and in the Celtic Sea is something we have been working towards for the last two years. We’ve been able to draw on the county’s unique expertise in offshore renewable energy and we are confident that Cornwall can play a leading role in delivering the Prime Minister’s ambitious vision.”

MANCHESTER ROUTE RETURNS Manchester was reinstated to Cornwall Airport Newquay’s list of destinations last month, with a second airline also set to operate the route from March.

Eastern Airways began operating the service from October 23, flying four times per week throughout the winter increasing to a daily service next summer.

Scottish Airline Loganair, which recently announced plans to provide four other vital links from the airport, including Edinburgh, Glasgow, Newcastle and Aberdeen, will be commencing daily services from next March.

The Manchester route, which was previously

operated by Flybe, is one of the airport’s most important connections, and has been one of the key objectives of the airport’s recovery strategy since the collapse of Flybe earlier this year.

Airport MD, Pete Downes, said: “We’re extremely pleased be able to announce that we have secured two regional airlines to operate services between Newquay and Manchester. The UK aviation industry continues to face significant challenges as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, and in that context, this news is a fantastic vote of confidence in our airport and in Cornwall.”

Miller Commercial has been recognised as Cornwall’s leading commercial property agency for the tenth year in a row by EGi, the largest property news provider and data analyst. ____________________ Wadebridge-based CleanEarth Energy recently completed a 76kW solar PV system for Cornish Concrete’s Bissoe HQ. The 205 roof-mounted panels will provide around 75,000 kilowatt hours of electricity per year and save 480 tonnes of carbon emissions over the lifetime of the system. ____________________ Helicopter tour agency Adventure 001 has donated £21k to Cornwall Air Ambulance from its summer flights. The company raised the money from its pleasure trips around St Ives Bay, which ran for two weeks in August. Adventure 001 has supported the charity for many years, raising more than £200k for the lifesaving air ambulance service. ____________________ The Isles of Scilly Steamship Group has appointed specialist ship designer BMT to advise on new vessel designs to provide lifeline passenger and freight services to the Isles of Scilly. The Steamship Group is seeking to replace its marine assets including the purpose-built Scillonian III passenger ferry which entered service in 1977 and was refitted in 2013, and its freight ship the Gry Maritha, built in 1981. ____________________ Inventor and tv personality Tom Lawton, founder of Uplifting Products, donated £1k from the sale of his latest invention to the Sea Sanctuary, to mark World Mental Health Day last month. Uplift 2.0 is a solar powered sculpture designed to sit on a windowsill and gently revolve in the light.

The Sea Sanctuary provides mental health programmes by taking its clients out on to the water.

BUSINESS CORNWALL | 9

HELP ENGINEER THE FUTURE OF AEROSPACE The South West has positioned itself at the forefront of the developing UK space and aerospace economy. With this next evolution of industry, businesses in Cornwall are now in a prime position to take advantage of new opportunities for manufacturing and engineering in space and aerospace applications, and AeroSpace Cornwall exists to help you do just that.

AeroSpace Cornwall offers technical and commercial support for manufacturing and engineering companies across Cornwall, who are looking to enter the space and aerospace sectors. The team exists to unlock the future of your business by helping to navigate these incredible opportunities for growth and diversification. Businesses in the sector are already seeing the huge benefits this support and funding can bring: fuelling growth by tapping into global markets and, in turn, contributing to the innovation of the industry.

Last year, Piran Advanced Composites, Acadmy Ltd, and CNC partnered to collaboratively develop a high-performance carbon composite design for Prismatic Ltd, now owned by Global Defence Company, BAE. All three received

AeroSpace Cornwall funding to focus on the unique drone wing project and delivery.

Prismatic Ltd develops novel space and aerospace systems, including solar-powered High Altitude UAVs. The Cornish companies used their grant funding to provide the 5 and 8.75 metre wing sections for two of their UAVs, namely the LASA-5 and the PHASE-8 aircraft.

The funding and support allowed the businesses to maximise their product offering to Prismatic Ltd, increasing their capability in the aerospace and space industry whilst enhancing the local sector supply chain.

Recently, PV3 Technologies, a Cornish company on a mission to advance low-carbon technologies across the world, has received vital funding from AeroSpace Cornwall towards new research and development projects in green hydrogen.

Using the funding, PV3 will develop nextgeneration coatings for PEM water electrolysers, a key component used in this ground-breaking green technology. The coatings mean that PV3 is able to reduce the cost of hydrogen production for British aerospace manufacturers and support growth of the global green hydrogen industry.

ADVERTORIAL

Far left: The high-altitude PHASA-35 in flight.

Left and above: We can pay for your aerospace accreditations.

With news of the world’s first zero-emission, hydrogen-powered commercial aircraft built

by ZeroAvia, and Airbus’ concept designs for larger aircraft, PV3 and Aerospace Cornwall are eager to ensure green hydrogen can become cost-competitive with other renewable fuels, supporting the increased uptake and demand in the aerospace sector.

Support from AeroSpace Cornwall goes further than funding for R & D. The team are able to help fund and secure accreditations such as Supply Chains for the 21st Century (SC21), a nationally recognised change management toolkit, or Aerospace Management training, ensuring safety and compliance with the BS EN 9100 standard.

These accreditations make it easier for businesses to sell to aerospace and space, and AeroSpace Cornwall provides professional support to manage the application process, ensuring your business is ready to advance into this sector by opening up opportunities for you to engage with the biggest players in the industry.

Proof of the effectiveness in these accreditations was recently seen by independent sub-contractors Logan Electronics Ltd, who, with the help of AeroSpace Cornwall, have been awarded the Bronze Performance Standard for the SC21 scheme.

Logan Electronics received over 90 hours of direct support from AeroSpace to achieve this significant milestone, working with their consultants to maximise workshop capacity and increase margins. Thanks to the SC21 scheme, Logan has not only increased their profit margin, but also expanded their business and welcomed extra staff on board; they are currently in the process of relocating to large, purpose-built premises in Scorrier.

These are just a handful of the businesses who have benefited from the growing aerospace sector in the South West. AeroSpace Cornwall is determined to help as many businesses as possible to diversify and maximise the opportunities to innovate in this new sector.

AeroSpace Cornwall can give you access to funding, and opportunities, so that you can understand your market and develop your product in order to tap into that market potential.

The team are ready to discuss your ideas to adapt your business or technologies.

Get in touch with james@aerospacecornwall.co.uk to find out more.

BUSINESS CORNWALL | 11

TRACEY

KENT

Since starting out seven years ago, Bodmin-based house builder bunnyhomes has invested more than £20 million in the Cornwall and Devon economy. Founder Tracey Kent shares her story, thoughts on the property market and what stands bunnyhomes out from the rest

How did the bunnyhomes story start? You started refurbishing property in the rental market.

In 2013 I could see, in the rental market specifically, that we could do it better for customers.

Most people who rented up until that time were counted as second class citizens and I thought the market was going to move.

I think some people elect to choose rental as a lifestyle. That time in the main there wasn’t anything specifically built for rental. I was really clear about what I wanted to do which was better

12 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

property and service. I wanted it so the customer could come to us and do it all online, wouldn’t have to bounce around six or seven different estate agents. We’d do it all, we’d create the property and maintain it.

I was a virgin to property development and home creations, so I thought I’d run around the UK and learn more about it. I went to Derbyshire, Wales, London, all over the place and I looked at all different types of property.

I also went over to America. I love the States and if I were younger that’s where I would start. I love the optimism. I went to Nashville and they have a very different view on how they deal with property. But I also specifically went to look at their rental markets and it’s a much more mature position than the UK and inevitably we tend to follow suit to the USA. The service culture is very different to here.

They have a lot more on-service, services all ladled on. I thought when I came back here, I should concentrate on doing the

I thought when I came back here, I should concentrate on doing the property really well and serving the customer really well

property really well and serving the customer really well.

To de-risk, because I didn’t have any skill, I bought one or two homes and refurbished them, boiler suit on paintbrush in hand and then I got it to the stage of building the team, do a door, do a floor, then I thought I needed a project that could be a bigger thing.

So, I came across this scheme at the Barbican in Plymouth, not on the waterfront but one back. A disused building that was for sale. In the January we started on the conversion for 21 high spec apartments Seasalt - recladding on the outside, ripped everything out, did kitchens, bathrooms, communal areas; it all looked lovely. The other thing I did was create brochures and a show home, although it was just a rental, and treat the customer like it was a new home. The bank thought I was going mad, thought I was over engineering. We were 85% pre let before we completed in August.

TRACEY

KENT

Tracey

Kent

That renovation was 2016, then the following year you started building out of the ground with your first development in Bovey Tracey?

When I did the first build project, I knew I had to contain the risk. So, I identified a small project in Bovey Tracey, which meant I would probably have an easier planning battle which was the case.

At the time we were still working from home, so I got this appraisal together but thought the figures weren’t quite stacking right. So, I phoned NatWest and they said do that project, we think you’ll do your learning on it and we think you’ll make that up. You’re being too cautious in your figures.

So we did that, nice homes and they were all sold and the customers were super happy

my MD Barry Stiles. There are now just under 20 of us and I couldn’t do what we do without them. We are now at Fremington, which is 37 we’re building, and we’ve just started at Carbis Bay, and they will all be part of our Craft Collection.

I was really clear about what I wanted to do which was better property and service

By that time I was building a team. I’ve got a fantastic team, and I am really blessed with

Have the last seven years progressed quicker than anticipated?

I always think I should get there faster. Everything has been reinvested back into the business. NatWest have been good, and the rental was put back into the business to get us onto the build. When I did all that running around

I met some very experienced players. And, of course, they’d say don’t do something in Devon or Cornwall because the margin etc would be much less. But I couldn’t go into the London playpen or whatever, I also thought there’s nothing like knowing your own turf. And I thought I would be able to see opportunity here that other people won’t.

In Saltash, another disused building, I thought it was really off pitch but I could really imagine customers wanting a nice rental home there.

That was so successful we didn’t even print a brochure. It’s all about delivering to the customer and I think that is local knowledge.

And where perhaps bigger players will see Devon and Cornwall as less exciting, but I feel where we are now is going to be real opportunity for us. We’ve got the foundations and bedrock of the business in and I know we have the right team. And definitely the right product, really well built, beautiful specification, beautiful to look at.

BUSINESS CORNWALL | 13

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Was it always a natural progression building out of the ground?

I always set myself a plan in life, but I’m not afraid of changing. If I felt I couldn’t do it, or the market changed or there was some barrier, I would have to accept that. But I think it was a natural progression.

Not being from a building background, it’s one thing doing a place up, it must be a totally different proposition building a house?

And that’s why you’ve got to have the skills of some of the team - Barry my MD and the development director Chris Kent, no relative by the way! What I have always been clear about, is that while I may not be able to do the build, I’m pretty good at knowing what a customer wants. And I can see that was our opportunity to do it better, create something really beautiful.

I’m always thinking how we can do things better for the customer. I don’t know but I think it may become a hero product for us. The Granary, where we had a landing piece of space, Barry said why don’t we cover that in and we’ve got a walk-in wardrobe.

I thought that’s the making of the product. We did that on an afternoon, went back to the office, brought a couple of members of the team in, they did up the primary stuff, sent it up to the architect overnight, the next day our site manager had the new drawings.

That’s because we’re being customer facing all the time.

It’s never one thing, but lots of different touch points bringing them together.

14 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

You mustn’t be adding in cost, but value generation is often about thinking smart, whether that be delivering more on design or taking out cost where it’s unnecessarily spent.

What proportion of homes are for rental and for sale?

What we’re building at the moment are for sale but when we go on to Bodmin, some will be for rental as well on top of the affordable homes. It also depends on the area. You also have to think about can we reasonably manage the product well. It would be no good if we had one rental home at Carbis Bay, we couldn’t afford the labour.

How many developments do you have?

In our flightpath we have seven neighbourhoods, a mixture of ones we’re building on, one’s we rent. We have four collections we do, City, Classix, Craft and Cream. City tends to be rental apartments.

Our classix homes are 2 and 3 bed cul-desac homes, in places like Bodmin, Callington and Liskeard. The Craft are only for sale, then on Cream we are doing a mixture, for later life, bungalows and apartments.

reputationally people didn’t like it, so we had to stop. But the good thing was because we had this lovely showhome, and we continued with a skeleton crew through that period, we continued to keep close contact and mine our data. As soon as people could come back out, people would come and view, they’ve seen us online. That was another thing that was our saving grace, we have a gorgeous website, very different from the market.

That’s always been a clear focus of mine, I’ve wanted the customers to feel excited. It should be a dream for them.

But the interesting thing with the pandemic, it’s shortened people’s timeframe with their plans in life. Whereas before they were thinking they’d do this next phase of their life in maybe ten years, now they’re thinking why wait, let’s do it now. We’ve got the Internet, we can make things work, the mobility is there.

Irrespective of Covid, part of our thing is the sustainability of homes and the wellness of homes, like large windows letting in lots of natural light. We also plant a wildlife-friendly Butterfly & Bee rose at each new property.

There are a lot of things we do slightly differently. In our four bed houses, we’ve got a fourth room downstairs called a ‘magic room’, for people to use as craft room, or maybe a playroom.

Value generation is often about thinking smart

Our goal for the next three years is to build 200-250 homes, but if it turns out to be 150 or 300, that’s not the thing, it’s about delivering the right product for the customer in the right locations. We have to grow our numbers to be profitable, but we won’t just go willy-nilly at it, it’s got to be measured. I want a long-term, steady business.

And how is the market at the moment?

How has the pandemic affected things?

It’s been amazing. Just before we came into lockdown, we had our first Craft collection showhome due to open at Fremington. As much as you could carry on building legally,

Or to work from home?

Yes, which has been massive. And we couldn’t have known it. And because we don’t plot at as a high a density we could, it means we have proper space. The pandemic has got people thinking about the quality of their lives more.

When we first went into lockdown, were you a little concerned it might have a negative impact?

I think I thought it was only going to be a month or two. I did not envisage this. I think

TRACEY

the world is going to be pretty much the same up until next Christmas, Christmas 2021. If you resign yourself to that fact and adapt things to meet that, it’s almost healthier. You’re not fighting, just working with what’s happening.

And people aren’t time wasting now. They’ve made this decision. Even if they’re young and healthy, it’s brought their mortality into sharper focus. We don’t know what’s coming tomorrow, not because of the disease, but it does put things into sharper focus.

Has it been a challenge being a woman in what I assume must be a male dominated industry?

I think people have been kind and generous with their time. In the main people are happy to impart their knowledge. I suppose they see someone who is bothered about what they are doing, so give assistance to that. I suspect, as well, I am such a little dinky thing it’s not really going to affect their bottom line! And because our product is slightly different, there’s not a direct comparison either. I’ve met some amazing people and wish there was more time to absorb all the knowledge. And it’s not just about the figures. One guy said to me on a bungalow I was doing. ‘You’ve got all that wrong Tracey, you should have done this on your roof’. I said I can absolutely see it but I wouldn’t have known it unless you pointed it out.

But you must come across some ‘traditional’ types shall we say?

Not necessarily from the building sector, maybe more from institutions such as banks.

They can’t put you in a box. The first bank I saw, which was in London, fell on the floor

laughing. They said you can’t call it that, you can’t do that, we think you’re wrong on the rentals and all of this. I said Ok, you’ve got your opinion, I understand that, but I’m going to do this anyway. I went back 18 months later and said I’ve done this, this and this. You have to have a certain amount of faith and confidence in yourself don’t you?

Of course, you have moments of doubt, you wouldn’t be human if you didn’t, I think you’ve just got to power on through that.

I get the impression from you that customer service is very important?

Massively important. I don’t get to see every single customer, but I do like to listen to what they say. The first customers I saw were absolutely amazing. They stood up and hugged me, and said ‘so is this your first development’? It is, but of course you don’t want to say that do you! Then there was an older couple I met, had a lovely cup of tea, they chatted about this that and the other, about why they bought, because of the doors, the cat flap we put in, loads of stuff. And when we do these new houses, I still intend to visit the customer because you can pick up some very useful things sometimes.

KENT

there and Bobby Davro was in the panto and he was tremendous. So warm and giving, he could reach out to a four-year-old or an 84year old. Amazing. So when I came out, I said we’re going to invite him to the Seasalt party!

So, I picked this massive bunch of flowers, sent my driver and wrote a note.

I said ‘Edward, you need to get this in Bobby’s hands’. He said ‘how am I going to do that?’. I said you’ll just have to sit there until he sees you! So, Edward gets up there and they let him into the dressing room. And Bobby Davro said that was so lovely, he went and got a vase to put them in. Edward told me Bobby would phone me when he comes off stage that night. I didn’t know if he would or not, but he did. I explained how I saw him in panto and thought he was amazing.

I have this thing coming up in Plymouth, I would really love you to come and he agreed!

And he was brilliant. Weirdly, it wasn’t about creating a media storm, I don’t know what it was really, I always go with moments.

I woke up a few months ago thinking we need to create a bit of momentum, we don’t know where the market’s going to go, so phoned him, said I’ve had this idea, you should come down and stay with me for a week, see some customers, spend some time with my team, I’ll work in a bit of a programme.

Lo and behold he came down and was absolutely brilliant. He gently helped build up a head of steam for the business, without it being disproportionate for the times we are living in. He is really good with customers and team, and we had some suppliers over for dinner and that went really well. I’m always about longevity; I like the idea that he was there at the start and also he’s become enmeshed in our business. And he’ll always put things over way better than me, because entertainers like him they have that amazingness with words.

I’ve got a fantastic team, and I am really blessed with my MD Barry Stiles

The entertainer Bobby Davro is a bunnyhomes ambassador. How did that come about?

He’s absolutely amazing! It goes back to the project at the Barbican, Seasalt. One year I went to the panto at the Theatre Royle in Plymouth with my sister and brother and parents. I had no idea who was in it. We got

BUSINESS CORNWALL | 15

TRACEY

KENT

Is everything you do residential?

There is a small bit of the business that is commercial property at Bude.

Is that the old Tripos building?

Yes. We’re in the middle of looking what to do with that. It was a pre-Covid idea and now I’m going to have to pivot and see where I take that. I bought it at auction in London. I know Bude well, a lovely area, there’s some good businesses there but I thought I could create some opportunity, some job creation.

I had an exciting scheme in mind, but in the times we’re in, I think I might have to look at it differently.

How do new schemes and developments come about?

A mixture of things. There are layers and layers of things going on, opportunity comes from many sources. It could be somebody phones you up one day and says how about this. As people get to see what you’re doing and what your market is, people know what you’d be interested in and come to you. People will think we can’t be dealing with a site for 3,000 units, and we can’t probably make it pay for less than 10 to 20 units lot size. And the other thing, we haven’t done anything yet, but one or two people have approached us who maybe are on a slightly different scheme and say we do this bit well, you do that bit well, therefore we can do it together.

within the framework we’re dealt with.

People need to understand it’s not even just about Government legislation, it gets quite subjective at planning level, which is not to do with the person creating the homes and that’s quite a difficult thing for the customer to understand.

Is obtaining planning permission one of the most complicated aspects of being a house builder?

There are schemes all over the place which have been bound up in red tape for years. Carlyon Bay for example.

Does land tend to come with planning permission?

There’s a mixture of things. Ideally we need things with outline planning permission which allows us to put in our home type.

But because we’re junior to the piece, sometimes we have to take crumbs off the table and work with what we’ve got. We wouldn’t necessarily do something that was speculative. You mentioned Carlyon Bay, something like that would probably be too long term for us. There is such a lot of money involved even in that pre-planning bit.

Opportunity comes from many sources

What are your views of Government’s proposed planning reforms?

I think we need to see what it actually turns out to be. Will local town councils be resistant?

It’s already very subjective irrespective of legislation.

Ultimately, we’re going to have to do what the Government asks of us, all we can do as a business is to do the best job

16 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

You could have land that comes with full planning which says you have to build this many homes and this is what they’ve got to look like. Which isn’t ideal for us, because we want to put our homes on. So, you have to go back to replanning saying we want to build our own home types, which we believe to be superior to what’s on the table. That won’t usually be a massive battle. Outline planning permission could say you can have 16 homes there, then we go in and say this is the type. And if you go all the way back, you can be really speculative and say here’s the field, we’re going to do this.

That tends to be for the bigger developers, they can afford to take a 20-year time frame can’t they?

Is it easier developing on brownfield sites?

You may think so, but often the remedial work to sort them out can mean the cost is really high. Especially an old industrial site.

We looked at a site in a village down the road from me, it wasn’t going to be racey, but I could see from a local perspective, 10, 20 houses working in that village really nicely. I could really see customers living there. So we looked at it but the cost of cleaning up the land, you would have had to have the land for free and even then probably couldn’t make it pay, so we couldn’t do anything.

The bigger you get, is it easier or harder to stick to your original values?

I don’t think it’s necessarily harder on the build quality, maybe harder to keep the ethos and people engaged to feel passionate about the customer. Connecting your team and suppliers, even if they’re sub contracted, into understanding about the customer. If they feel the person at the helm is not bothered, they’re going to feel less bothered. Richard Branson is a good example. In the main he has been extraordinary in keeping his team impassioned, and there’s thousands of them.

That’s a different management challenge.

As you grow larger that’s really difficult and if I was ever faced with that challenge I think I would really be thinking about the man management of that, because that’s another kind of skill in itself Where do you see bunnyhomes in ten years’ time? Always just in Devon and Cornwall or will you go further afield?

We’ve got a long way to go before we could expand to do it well. You have to be organically strong and I think we still have plenty of ducks to get in a row. I just want to feel we’ve created a good long-term stable business, that’s creating good long-term stable employment. And I want to know we’re building the right product and satisfying customers.

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the

property review

While the property market has been far from immune to the pandemic, activity over the past few months has been busier than many would suspect. Over the following pages we take a look at the current state of play and some of the latest developments coming on stream Source: PSG Cornwall

Source: Rightmove

The residential market was recovering well in Cornwall (in keeping with the national picture) from the lows of Jan 19 through the course of 2019. However, when lockdown struck in March, activity dropped off the cliff. The worst month was in April when the Cornish market was 73% down on April 2019 (compared to down 67% nationally).

More recently, however, there has been a significant upswing in activity.

The improving market has continued

PSG Cornwall provides property services to Cornwall’s solicitors, estate agents and landlords and is involved in two out of every three residential property transactions in Cornwall. Business development manager James Oliver says: “We were planning for a 95% reduction in work from the start of lockdown. However, more property came to the market than we anticipated and the pipeline of transactions continued.

“Our order levels didn’t drop below 35% and, although half of our team went on furlough leave, we could bring them all back really quickly as lockdown eased and the market improved. During lockdown our offering changed slightly, with property virtual tours becoming more popular.

“The improving market has continued and we have now added more people to our team and are dealing with over 120% of pre-lockdown order volumes.

Unfortunately, some of our suppliers, most notably Cornwall Council have been unable to cope with this combination of increased volumes and the inefficiencies of a remote team. This has led to a delay in the average time from placing an offer to exchange which buyers and sellers need to bear in mind.”

Ben Davies, director at Truro-based estate agent Shore Partnership says that the last few months have been the busiest in the market that he can ever remember. “There is a huge amount of confidence in Cornish property right across the board with prime property on the coasts leading the way,” he says.

“There is much more fluidity enabling people to move up and down the market. We are handling local families moving within the area as well as people moving into the county for a lifestyle change. We are also seeing people sell to move elsewhere in the country to be closer to their grown up children as well as the opposite trend of people returning to Cornwall after many years away. Buyers for holiday homes, investments and early retirement moves have also been very active.”

While lockdown initially put everything on hold, he says it gave people time to think.

“We had already seen a resurgent market at the beginning of 2020 and the lockdown simply put a lid on demand. Give people two or three months off and they’ll re-evaluate their lives. What’s most important to us? What do we want for our children? What happens if we’re locked down again? Why would I work in a congested city when I can work from home? Cornwall delivers a lifestyle that is rich, rewarding, healthy and optimistic.”

Continued on page 18 BUSINESS CORNWALL | 17

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...continued from page 17 Simon Gill is chair of the Association of Cornish Property Professionals and he echoes these sentiments. “It has been a very busy summer which seems to be continuing into the autumn, with all areas of the market experiencing a boom,” he tells us.

“We are seeing an increased demand from local buyers but also from buyers from out of Cornwall wanting to take advantage of our amazing county. We believe this is due to a focus on a better life-work balance, a realisation of the benefits of being close to nature, and employers embracing remote working. Long may it continue.”

While the residential property market has been buoyant through the pandemic, one could be forgiven for thinking that conditions have been more testing in the commercial and leisure sectors.

But while retail and office space in particular are going through their challenges, Tom Smith, head of commercial agency Miller Commercial, says it has still been a busy time.

“The result has been persistently strong demand across all commercial sectors since early summer and it has been pleasing to assist so many landlords and tenants in finding new premises from which to trade in the years ahead.”

Tom says that while there has been a predictable interest in quality commercial units located in the most advantageous locations and priced correctly, overall demand for commercial space is higher than might otherwise have been expected.

He says: “Certainly the grass roots of the local business community have shown resilience and optimism in the face of an extremely challenging year, which bodes well for the future of the regional and indeed, national economy.”

Miller Commercial also reports a surge in activity in the buying and selling of businesses.

Tom’s colleague Graham Timmins says: “The leisure sector, campsites and furnished holiday lets are very much in demand with a notable proliferation of buyers from London, the Home Counties and the Midlands looking to capitalise on an extremely buoyant residential market, low interest rates and the stamp duty window.

“Anecdotally these buyers are making quick decisions in a rapid market, with the lead time between viewing and offer being compressed to a matter of days or even hours, as opposed to weeks pre-lockdown.

“Clearly, the impact of Covid-19 has meant all businesses have had to ask some pretty testing questions,” he explains, “but it has also given them time to evaluate what they need out of their occupied property. How to work better, how to work more safely and indeed how to work more efficiently.

18 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

“As for our business owner clients, they have had a tough summer season. However most have reported that they are pleased to have had some income and many are planning for an extended season which will help to balance the year end accounts as they aim to finish with a ‘reasonable’ year.

“Business owners are buoyed by the enquiries and viewings we are generating. Overall a very challenging year is showing signs of finishing with a flourish.”

The plight of the high street, however, has been well documented even before coronavirus reared its ugly face.

He says: “Our current experience is that demand for smaller retail units, within the reach of sole local traders, has remained during all but the toughest of the past few months while the demand for larger shops – once the domain of the national chains - has fallen significantly but this was already the trend pre-virus in any case.

Landlords are having to be more realistic in their rental expectations, however.

“Landlords of larger shop units are now often having to consider making serious compromises to their rental income and other lease terms and take a more collaborative approach with their tenants than ever before,” Alan says.

The result has been persistently strong demand across all commercial sectors since early summer

It’s not all doom and gloom, however. While trends are changing, Alan Treloar, head of agency at commercial property consultant Vickery Holman, says this also presents an opportunity.

“Turnover rents, which for most of us in the south west were something we heard of but never experienced, have now become a reality in some situations.”

It’s all about being flexible and adaptable.

Alan continues: “As well as landlords and retail tenants needing to work together there will be a need for a more open mind to potential alternative uses for larger retail units when they become vacant and where there is little demand.

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through recent changes to the planning use classes.

“We have yet to see the results of this simplification take hold as the change was only made at the start of September, but it should see a diversification of users on the high street that had already begun develop over time and we are looking forward to that taking shape.

“Of course we can discuss at length the natural desire that people have to use their towns as part of their daily routine and how planning changes will help drive activity but retailers, BID organisations and local authorities also play their part to ensure that their offer is something that the public want.

“Many of these key players are already doing much to encourage activity with various initiatives from shopping local campaigns, to festivals, branding and other promotions.

“There is a trend towards occupiers that once only occupied upper floors in our towns coming down to the street level and as a result becoming more accessible to their

clientele – and this includes office occupiers, consultants, health practitioners and others.”

“We are well served in Cornwall by very active BIDs and long may that continue.”

Continued on page 26

Alan says this has now been simplified

FUNDING THE CORNISH PROPERTY BOOM Anecdotally, we hear estate agents are awash with enquiries.

Fuelled by stamp duty cuts, pent up demand, a surge in staycations and lockdown-induced desire for more space and beautiful outdoors, it would appear there’s no end in sight when it comes to demand for Cornish land and property.

Cornwall is abuzz with property projects and confidence in Cornish property is most certainly on an upward curve, says FOLK2FOLK MD Roy Warren

Banks, however, still appear cautious to lend and FOLK2FOLK has seen the resulting increase in demand for funding property projects. Enquiry levels are now higher than this time last year and we’re beginning to see some trends emerge.

Farmers are continuing to convert outbuildings into holiday accommodation

or retail, but we’re seeing an interesting change in direction for some local landowners who, instead of just applying for permission and selling land as plots, are now choosing to proceed with their own build schedule. More local developers are undertaking projects across the county and not just focusing on coastal areas. Developments which incorporate an element of affordable housing are continuing, providing much needed provision for local people. Not surprisingly, we’re also seeing an increase in requests to fund the purchase of buy-to-let properties.

Born, bred and based in Cornwall, FOLK2FOLK is proud to help fund Cornwall’s property projects. So if you’re seeking finance, whether you’re a first time renovator or seasoned developer, talk to us we can probably help.

01566 773296 | www.folk2folk.com

BUSINESS CORNWALL | 19

North Quay HAYLE • CORNWALL

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www.north-quay.co.uk All information correct at time of going to print. Computer generated images created by James Lawley.

Commercial

01872 300 401

WEST CORNWALL’S NEW HARBOUR DESTINATION

North Quay is set amongst the striking scenery of the Hayle Estuary and within the boundaries of the Hayle Conservation Area and The UNESCO World Heritage Site for Cornwall and Devon.

Designed by internationally renowned architects and urban designers Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios, it has received early recognition nationally for its vision and quality of design, winning a Project Category award in the prestigious Housing Design Awards 2020.

Hayle Harbour’s regeneration has long been seen as an important project in stimulating and sustaining economic growth in the town and West Cornwall. It’s something the construction phase has already kick-started, with around 100 jobs on site - the vast majority of these local people and businesses - and apprenticeships and work placement initiatives under way.

Corinthian Homes has also placed a big emphasis on ensuring the development will be distinctively Cornish and is focusing on working with local operators and restauranteurs, rather than national chains, to maximise the benefits of the commercial opportunities. Lula’s the first destination eatery which recently opened initially in a temporary location at North Quay - is a sister restaurant to Amelie, in Porthleven, and has enjoyed a highly successful summer, providing a glimpse of the potential for the area.

More than a decade in the planning, and one of the most eagerly awaited projects in Cornwall, the regeneration of Hayle Harbour is now well under way and on course to create a spectacular new destination for Cornwall.

Work started in January on North Quay, the initial phase of the transformation, and already the first new waterfront homes are nearing completion. It’s a signal of real intent by developer Corinthian Homes Group which, since becoming involved, has injected huge energy and significant investment into the once-stalled project.

And with Cornwall’s lifestyle benefits currently driving a surge in interest from homebuyers across the UK, Hayle’s potential is something that’s attracting a lot of attention, according to Kevin James, New Property and Land Director at Bradleys Estate Agents.

Kevin said: “There is huge interest in Cornwall at the moment and North Quay is a fantastic opportunity for those looking to find a modern, well-connected home in a stunning coastal location.”

Once complete, North Quay will feature beautifully designed homes, new shops, restaurants and open spaces and become a focal point for further phases of the regeneration. Plans already submitted for Phase Two of the scheme include a new hotel and community centre, improved water sport and harbour facilities, cinema and new open-market and affordable homes.

And of course, this is all set within a stunning waterside location just yards from the magnificent Hayle Towans beaches with their three miles of golden sands.

It’s a tantalising vision which has already seen more than 50 per cent of released properties sold and strong investor interest in homes and the scheme’s commercial opportunities, including advanced talks with a number of retail, restaurant operators and a hotel group.

Simon Wright, Chief Executive of Corinthian Homes, said the aim was to deliver a project which greatly enhances the local area and its economy and creates a nationally and internationally recognised destination built around a traditional and thriving harbour and fishing fleet.

He said: “There has been the opportunity for this to happen for some time but for 30 to 40 years, people have looked at other parts of Cornwall coming forward. It’s Hayle’s turn now and this is something that the town, and Cornwall, can be proud of on a national level and which will draw people from across the UK and internationally.”

North Quay HAYLE • CORNWALL

www.north-quay.co.uk

miller-commercial.co.uk

So how can we help you?

As Cornwall’s most active Commercial Agency for the last 10 years you would expect us to have been very busy even during these difficult times.

And we have.

Deals have been done.

Opportunities abound. Buyers and sellers are keen.

We can help you buy or sell a business

We can help you buy, lease, sell or rent commercial properties

We can manage a commercial property on your behalf

We can provide valuations, lease renewals, rent reviews etc…

Graham Timmins Business Transfer

Tom Smith Commercial Agency

Nick Maffey Property Management

Andrew Ranson Professional Services

01872 247036

01872 247035

01872 247037

01872 247038

And here are some recent commercial agency successes...

Want to join them? Contact our commercial agency team: FULLY LET

SOLD STC.

Mike Nightingale

Tom Smith

01872 247008 msn@miller-commercial.co.uk

01872 247013 ts@miller-commercial.co.uk

D3 Church View Business Park, Falmouth

ETS House, Glenthorne Court, Threemilestone, Truro

The freehold of this brand new business unit, measuring 4,210 sq ft within within Cornwall’s newest and most prestigious business estate and built to the highest specification with exceptional environmental credentials has been sold to a thriving local business.

Two floors, each comprising approx. 1,200 sq ft of high quality office accommodation were let to separate occupiers in this modern, purpose built office building within Threemilestone’s main office park. Ground floor let to the NHS.

EPC A19

Thomas Hewitt

Will Duckworth

01872 247025 th@miller-commercial.co.uk

01872 247034 wd@miller-commercial.co.uk

LET and SOLD

EPC C74

LET

SOLD

18 Dunveth Business Park, Wadebridge

Harlyn Bay, Padstow – Development site

25 Tregoniggie Industrial Estate, Falmouth

A modern, purpose built industrial unit of 1,415 sq ft located on the outskirts of Wadebridge and built to the highest environmental standards in the foremost industrial estate in this part of Cornwall’s north coast.

Simultaneously leased then sold on behalf of our client.

A one acre site fronting one of Cornwall’s most iconic beaches and sold for the first time in over 30 years for mixed use development. Was on the market for £2.5 million.

Lease concluded within 3 weeks of instruction.

A detached, purpose built industrial unit comprising 3,100 sq ft of ground floor space plus 3,100 sq ft of mezzanine floorspace in the heart of Falmouth’s largest industrial estate.

EPC D80

EPC D86

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WHAT IS SHARED OWNERSHIP? Shared ownership is an alternative way to buy your home. It’s aimed towards people who may need a helping hand to purchase a property. You buy a percentage of the property and pay rent on the remaining share at a subsidised rate.

Here at Coastline, we currently have a number of shared ownership homes available across Cornwall - including new developments as well as a range of resale homes.

There are no size restrictions on the home you choose as long as it is affordable to you.

Shared ownership allow you to ‘staircase’ which means you can purchase more and more shares of your property. In most cases, you are able to staircase to 100%, owning your home outright.

To be eligible to buy a shared ownership home you must meeting the following criteria; • You are unable to afford to buy a property on the open market suitable to your needs • You have a household income of below £80k • You have enough savings to cover the deposit for the share you are purchasing plus your legal costs • You meet any local connection criteria

For more information about the shared ownership scheme, contact Coastline Housing on 01209 200230 or email home.ownership@coastlinehousing.co.uk

THE END OF AFFORDABLE HOUSING IN CORNWALL? The Government is proposing significant changes to planning rules that would mean that developments of between 40 and 50 homes would not need to provide affordable housing.

James Clark Managing Associate (Planning) Email: james.clark@footanstey.com Direct Dial: +44 1872 243344

Rachel Langley Senior Associate (Real Estate) Email: rachel.langley@footanstey.com Direct Dial: +44 1872 243310

Currently, only sites of ten homes or fewer (or five in Designated Rural Areas and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty) are exempt from providing affordable housing on site or making a financial contribution towards affordable housing elsewhere.

The changes would apply for 18 months initially before being reviewed. The proposals are intended to support small and medium-sized builders, who will no doubt welcome the changes. Whilst developers in Cornwall may be supportive, Cornwall Council is concerned that, if implemented, the changes could result in the loss of 300 affordable homes in Cornwall each year.

Much of Cornwall is a Designated Rural Area and/or Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the changes proposed would not affect the five-home threshold in these areas. It is principally development in

Cornwall’s towns and the city of Truro that would be affected.

Affordable housing providers operating in Cornwall are likely to regard the proposals with caution. However, outside of those areas where the five-home threshold applies, the proposals may result in opportunities for providers to bid for grant funding on sites within Cornwall’s towns in order to provide a number of homes on those sites as affordable housing.

We regularly act for both developers and providers of affordable housing across the South West region, supporting our clients from taking sites through from initial heads of terms stage, through the planning process, acquisition, development and onward plot sales.

Consultation on the proposals ended on 1 October 2020 and we are awaiting the outcome with interest.

Website: www.footanstey.com BUSINESS CORNWALL | 23

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Building for a better life Treveth is bringing a fresh approach to new homes and commercial development in Cornwall

Over the next few months you’re going to see and hear a lot more about a company called Treveth Holdings.

Established last year, its Homes division has a pipeline of over 600 new homes on sites across Cornwall, and its commercial arm is the development manager for the proposed £160 million transformation of Pydar Street in Truro.

Treveth, which is Cornish for ‘Homestead’,

24 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

is no ordinary developer. Its ‘Profit with Purpose’ mantra hints at its wider resolve, which is to create new homes and commercial development to benefit people who live and work in Cornwall, while delivering consistent and reliable returns to its partner, Cornwall Council, against a backdrop of

reduced central government funding.

And for managing director Tim Mulholland, a development professional of more than 30 years’ experience, the mission is clear.

“We’re an unashamedly Cornish company that puts Cornwall and its people first,” Tim says.

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HAPPY CUSTOMERS Last year Treveth took on two Cornwall Council new build schemes at Tolvaddon and Bodmin comprising 113 homes, which are now fully rented, with a small number of units still available for sale in Bodmin.

Bodmin couple Yazmin, a nail technician, and Kyle, a roofer, moved to the new Bodmin development with their young son and have been delighted with their home.

Yazmin says: “We drove past one day when they were being built and immediately liked the look of them but we weren’t sure if they were available to rent. A few months later we saw something online and we gave them a phone call, filled in the forms – it was really straightforward.

FORTHCOMING TREVETH DEVELOPMENT IN BODMIN “We want to improve people’s lives by building successful and sustainable communities where local people want to live. Our role is to assist the Council in delivering its objectives of improved housing, job creation, and economic growth, where social and environmental values are just as important as commercial returns.”

That mission includes improving the quality of new homes in Cornwall, especially in the private rented market, and making them available to local people.

The average Treveth Homes development will have 30% affordable homes, around 15% for open market sale, and the rest will be private rented on secure three-year tenancies as standard. This deliberately counters what can be the rollercoaster sixmonth seasonality of Cornwall’s private rented

“We absolutely love the house – it’s so big.

People can’t believe the size when they come visit because it is massive and the storage sector, allowing people to put down roots in their communities. This offers individuals and families stability and allows them to grow in the communities they live in.

Treveth will prioritise local people first when selling and renting its properties.

To rent a Treveth home you will be expected to demonstrate a local Cornish connection through residency, employment or close family.

The homes themselves are a cut above market norms. They exceed current minimum space standards, across all tenures, and are designed to reduce the running costs for occupants through the use of low carbon technologies.

Treveth has developed a pattern book and design guide to inform all its future housing

space is brilliant. We would love to buy in the future – we want to make this our family home. There’s a great sense of community here.”

Treveth recently started a development of 46 one, two and three bedroomed homes at Mauldin Farm in Liskeard.

There will be 35 homes for private rent and 11 affordable homes, available from next autumn.

A scheme of 28 one and two bedroomed apartments in a new development called Brook House on Henver Road in Newquay will be available from Spring next year, all available for private rent.

Treveth Developments due to start in the coming months include 100 more homes in Bodmin, 185 near Redruth, 140 in Launceston and 150 in Newquay. developments, recognising the unique character of Cornwall and how new housing can contribute towards local distinctiveness.

Tim adds: “In the coming months we’ll be on site with five new developments providing over 600 new homes to local people, and we’re always on the lookout for residential and commercial development opportunities in Cornwall that fit our values and objectives.

We retain ownership of the majority of the homes we build, so residents can be reassured that we will continue to be involved in our developments long after they are built.”

www.treveth.co.uk BUSINESS CORNWALL | 25

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...continued from page 19

FLY IN THE PLANNING OINTMENT? The Government’s proposals for new planning laws, designed to “build more homes, more quickly” has not met with universal approval – even former PM Theresa May called them “ill conceived” last month.

Critics say that while more homes would indeed be built, the amount of affordable

The Local Government Association (LGA) has calculated that had the proposed Government planning reforms been in place five years ago, nearly 30,000 affordable homes would never have been built.

It says affordable home provision could fall significantly under the new rules, because proposed short-term changes mean

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The Council says like many Local Authorities in England, it has thousands of homes with planning permission which have not been built. “Unlocking these sites by giving us new powers or funding to build the infrastructure that is needed, will help build these new homes that our residents need,” it says.

Cornwall Council’s Portfolio Holder for Planning, Tim Dwelly, says: “The message is simple. Under these new proposals the overall number of homes being built in Cornwall will rise dramatically. But the number of new affordable homes will fall dramatically. The current planning system gives residents the right to have a meaningful say on the quality and location of new homes - as well as their affordability. The Government proposals will remove this right. That’s not on.”

Continued on page 28

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Affordable home provision could fall significantly

Cornwall Council says the proposals would see an extra 12,500 new houses being built in Cornwall in the next ten years in addition to the current plans – the equivalent of a town roughly twice the size of Bodmin. The Council says that without time to plan for new growth in the right places there are fears this will inevitably result in poor quality and unplanned speculative development coming forward.

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developers will not have to provide any affordable housing on sites of less than 40/50 homes. This, it claims, could mean a loss of 300 affordable homes a year for Cornwall’s residents.

housing would reduce.

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...continued from page 26

BUILDING A BETTER EDUCATION Truro and Penwith College is currently working on the construction of two key developments in Cornwall right now totalling £13.5 million The new £7 million Valency Building on its Truro campus will be part of the South West Institute of Technology (SWIoT), with

NATIONAL EXPANSION Oltco has grown from its HQ

more than 1,200sq m of space over two floors playing host to facilities matching the best in the UK for training students from across the region in technical subjects.

The new £7 million Valency Building

The Valency building will feature electronic and digital laboratories, engineering workshops, specialist welding facilities, a variety of industry standard, computer controlled (CNC) machinery and shared learning spaces.

in Newquay to become the UK’s leading resin driveway company specialising in transforming driveways, patios, pathways, balconies and pool surrounds in both the domestic and commercial markets.

The project recently received funding via the LEP through the Government’s Getting Building Fund to deliver upgrades to local infrastructure and boost skills to help fuel a green economic recovery.

resin driveway solution made utilising waste plastic which is already in circulation - Recycle Bound has been used to transform larger commercial projects including Trevornick Holiday Park, Carbis Bay Hotel and the Eden Project. To date, Recycle Bound has already recycled the equivalent of over 40 million plastic straws.

Oltco has grown from its HQ in Newquay

OLTCO DIRECTORS JOHNNY PEARCE & TOM STRINGER 28 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

Since last year’s launch of Recycle Bound – the world’s first

The college is also is investing in the construction of a new £6.3 million STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) Skills Centre for north and east Cornwall on land adjacent to the Callywith College site.

Oltco’s accelerated growth has seen it launch 14 new franchises this year in such areas as Harrogate, Ruislip and Guildford, now boasting a total of 25 franchised areas across the UK.

Director Johnny Pearce says: “We have always had a clear vision of where Oltco would be and to see this vision become a reality for the business is amazing. We look forward to the year ahead and can’t wait to continue expanding and offering Oltco’s products to more areas.”

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At Shore Partnership, we understand that personality, taste and lifestyle define property.

Whether you are buying a family residence, holiday home or investment in Cornwall, we believe your home should be a space where you will grow, hope, dream, relax, recharge, work and succeed.

Shore Partnership’s three directors, Tim May, Andrew Berry and Ben Davies, have over 50 years’ combined experience in the Cornish property market from first-time purchases to selling some of the highest value properties in Cornwall. We deal with people from all walks of life and pride ourselves in providing a bespoke, trusted and personal property selling service of the very highest quality.

We draw on our rich and varied depth of knowledge enabling us to provide our clients with the most genuine advice.

We believe you and your home deserve close attention to detail and with Shore Partnership you can be assured of a tailored service, personal to your needs.

T: 01872 484484

E: contact@shorepartnership.com

W: shorepartnership.com

www.instagram.com/shorepartnership

www.facebook.com/shorepartnership BUSINESS CORNWALL | 29

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Choose

Cornwall Strong interest from businesses looking to move to or relocate within Cornwall has seen a busy 12 months for the flagship suite of industrial and office workspace developed to help spearhead sustainable economic growth

Cornwall’s offer to businesses has been transformed in recent years under the Cornwall & Isles of Scilly Growth Programme, with multi-million-pound investments by Cornwall Council and the European Regional Development Fund delivering high quality workspace and development plots for business, especially in growth sectors like aerospace and marine energy.

Managed on the Council’s behalf by Cornwall Development Company, the assets were brought together in 2019 on a new website - Choose Cornwall - to make it easier for businesses to find their perfect location here.

And in its in first year, the Choose Cornwall initiative has seen a significant uptake. More than 80% of industrial space and 85% of office space by floor area is now let or under offer.

30 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

Developments within the portfolio include Sector 2 and the Aerohub Business Park at Newquay; the Enterprise Space for Advanced Manufacturing (ESAM) near St Austell; the Marine Renewables Business Park West at Hayle; and its sister development, the Marine Renewables Business Park East, at Tolvaddon near Pool.

Together they offer a wide range of flexible accommodation which is providing new accommodation for a diverse range of ambitious, growing businesses sustaining employment and generating new jobs in Cornwall.

Highlights during the year included: ESAM, CARLUDDON TECHNOLOGY PARK NEAR THE EDEN PROJECT Fluid Branding – the technology focussed

international promotional merchandise company founded in Cornwall – reaffirmed its commitment to the county and new sustainable manufacturing processes by choosing ESAM as its new headquarters. It joined tenants including 3D printing specialist 3D Creations; and innovative renewable energy storage systems business Wattstor; with further occupier announcements imminent.

AEROHUB BUSINESS PARK This year saw the opening of a new purposebuilt building, The Hangar, developed on one of Aerohub’s serviced plots by the Watergate Bay Hotel group to provide office space for its own operations and two associated businesses.

Nearby at Sector 2, the majority of office and commercial space has been taken, within a year of its official opening. Tenants include growing clean energy firm Bennamann, which has taken office and workshop space to

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Businesses looking to join the successful firms already based at these flagship developments still have the opportunity to take advantage of their modern office and light industrial facilities, together with the many benefits available at each site.

While Sector 2 has limited office and industrial space remaining, just 12 miles away ESAM has availability on a variety of office and industrial / workshop units and can offer new flexible lease terms.

Designed to encourage innovation and collaboration, it features dedicated management and reception facilities, onsite business support and meeting and AV conferencing. Businesses from all sectors can apply to locate to ESAM although priority will be given advanced manufacturing, engineering and low carbon environmental goods and services businesses.

For businesses looking to purchase sites, there are development opportunities on serviced plots available at both Aerohub and the strategically located Marine Renewables Business Park East, at Tolvaddon near Pool, both of which benefit from Enterprise Zone status.

For more information see www.choosecornwall.co.uk

BOB HICKS, TECHNICAL MANAGER FOR WATTSTOR complement its R&D base in Truro; and highend international print and design company PH Media, part of the Logical Choice Group, which despite the pandemic pressed ahead with a move to expand its business out of its original premise in Roche.

HAYLE MARINE RENEWABLES BUSINESS PARK The hugely successful business park has in the last few weeks welcomed new tenant and maritime safety specialists PWC Training, continuing the park’s recent record of 100% occupancy.

Beth Taylor-Stubbs, commercial property manager at Cornwall Development Company, says: “It has been an extraordinary year and

one in which businesses have had to find new ways of working, but what we’ve seen is businesses adapting, continuing to operate and wanting to invest in their future growth and development.

“The flexibility, safe access, modern infrastructure and on-site services provided by our developments has clearly proved attractive to businesses, together with the new flexible lease terms we are able to offer.

“We’re pleased with the progress made and we are continuing to actively market the remaining industrial and office space and to work to support businesses in finding the right location for them to fulfil their own potential and in turn generate jobs and economic activity for Cornwall.”

“ESAM is a high-profile site and helps us to show ourselves as a credible player as well as with the presentation of our system. Our Unit provides us with spacious, light, and clean technical accommodation and an area that’s between an office and a workshop, with HGV access which allows us to take something off a pallet and put it right next to my desk. It is a perfect turnkey solution to what we are doing.”

BUSINESS CORNWALL | 31

Redruth Enterprise Park Are you an SME in need of business space?

Then look no further, here at Redruth Enterprise Park we can offer all the space and facilities to accommodate your business and encourage growth.

We pride ourselves on delivering excellent space to work with our dedication to delivering high quality, well maintained premises.

Whether it’s an Office Suite fully furnished and ready to move into or a Light Industrial Space with Reception, Office Space and Warehouse, you will find it here at Redruth Enterprise Park.

Our on-site management ensures everything is taken care of so you can concentrate on your business.

Located on Cornwall Business Park West, adjacent to the Scorrier junction of the A30. Built to the BREEAM Excellent build certification in partnership with the European Regional Development Fund we offer an unrivalled space to work in the heart of Cornwall.

Light, fresh, dynamic workspaces for Cornwall’s next generation of businesses. Created by South West specialists with an established long-term commitment to investment and development in the region.

Redruth House offers 14 high quality serviced office spaces from 180 sqft to 440 sqft.

Fully furnished ready to Work Office Suites. High speed broadband connection on your own secure network, Heat, light & power, Shared meeting room facilities, Reception facilities, kitchen, accessible WC’s & shower, Cleaning, Allocated parking & bike store.

Redruth Enterprise Park offers 14 high quality industrial units of approx. 2500 & 3500 sqft. Includes accessible WC, reception, kitchen facilities, separate office, allocated parking, bike store & shower block.

We focus on the building so you can focus on your business. The following services are included within your Service Charge: • Maintenance of the building exterior (Roof, walls, windows & access ways) • Maintenance of all landscaped areas • CCTV Security system • Cleaning & maintenance of all common areas within the estate

Interested? Why not come and meet us and see for yourself the excellent Space to Work and how it will help you and your business grow.

Space2work.co.uk Redruthhouse.com Redruthenterprisepark.com 08700 712121 01209 500550

TOWNS FUND

DEAL

Making

an impact Cornish towns receive first tranche of funding from the £3.6 billion Towns Fund Deal, part the Government’s plan to level up the regions across the UK The Towns Deal fund was first announced by the Government last year, before the pandemic. But in these unprecedented times with the well-documented plight of town centres up and down the country, the investment is even more welcome.

Four Cornish towns – Truro, Penzance, Camborne and St Ives - are among the 100 across the UK that stand to receive up to £25 million each from the Government funding.

Communities, businesses and local leaders have been working together to draw up Town Deal plans to help transform the economic growth prospects of each area, with an emphasis on improved transport, broadband connectivity, skills and culture.

They received a first tranche of funding towards the end of September, while they are now drawing up a Town Investment Plans for

even more significant investment, which will be submitted in January.

Camborne and Truro were both awarded an initial £750k to kick start development. For Camborne, one of the main goal’s is to use the cash to transform the appearance of its high street.

Camborne Business Improvement District (BID) manager Anna Pascoe, who chairs the Camborne Town Deal board, explains:

Plans to help transform the economic growth prospects of each area

“We believe enhancing the look of our streets will help restore a sense of place and pride and the feedback we got from our recent local survey provided a strong indication that’s what local residents want too.

“The remainder of the funding will be focused on developing our plans for turning a prime central space into somewhere people of all ages can live, work and socialise. We had nearly 1,000 responses to our survey and it was clear that there is significant demand for more things to do in vibrant, social settings.

“We’re reflecting that need by looking into sustainable, flexible options that will have a ‘wow’ factor.”

34 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

Camborne Town Council’s Rose HitchensTodd is vice chair of the Camborne Town Deal board. She hopes the funds will provide a vital boost for the town in these hard times. “This is such an exciting step towards building a much brighter future for our community,” she says.

“Covid-19 has hit everyone hard but this gives us good reason to hope for better times ahead. Camborne is famous for past innovation that really changed the world. Our ambition is to create an environment in which entrepreneurialism and creativity can once again thrive and this funding will help us achieve that.”

Truro has announced an array of projects aimed at regeneration and boosting economic growth.

From bike parking across the city, through to event equipment and refurbished community centres and sports facilities, the city has big plans for the investment.

Inspired by the annual City of Lights community art project and lantern parade, a festive trail of light-up installations across Truro’s shop windows this winter season is another key project to be given a welcome cash boost.

Carole Theobald, chair of Truro Town Deal board, says: “This first award of funding is incredibly welcome, and gives a flavour of the

TOWNS FUND

further projects we’ll be bringing to life in the coming weeks as part of our larger bid.

“We selected each of these successful projects for their ability to strengthen our communities, improve our city as a place to live and work, as well as drive footfall and visitor numbers.

“Several are set to be delivered by the end of this year, so it’s exciting that this funding will have an impact on Truro very soon.”

Meanwhile, St Ives has been awarded £450k from the same scheme for its Skatepark Regeneration Project.

Sarah Stevens, chair of the St Ives Town Deal board, said: “The skatepark was chosen because it had already been submitted to the Town Deal board as an Expression of Interest via the website and was already a well-developed project.

“The Skatepark Group have also already raised a considerable amount of money which will be used to match the Government grant and make the new skatepark even more fabulous. It’s a community aspiration and been talked about for years and it will bring real and significant benefits to this residential area of town, where further projects are being planned for local community benefit.”

Five projects in Penzance and Newlyn have been earmarked to benefit from its initial £500k share of the fund.

The money will cover a range of initiatives in the town, including bike shelters, shop mobaility, prom works, an outdoor gym in Newlyn and work on the historic Acorn Theatre.

Paul Mullin is chair of trustees at the Acorn and is delighted to receive the investment: “This is fantastic news for

DEAL

the Acorn,” he says, “and for everyone who comes here to perform, enjoy performances, take classes or volunteer.

“The theatre was last upgraded over 20 years ago and this, alongside the wonderful generosity of our friends and supporters, will go a long way to securing the venue’s future for the next generation.”

Penzance Town Deal board member Emmie Kell, who is also chief executive of Cornwall Museum Partnerships, says: “A strong cultural infrastructure is an important element of resilient towns and makes a contribution to people’s enjoyment and wellbeing.

“Cornwall’s rich creative offer delivers real social and economic impacts and investment in the Acorn will help to keep Penzance town centre alive while boosting the local economy.”

BUSINESS CORNWALL | 35

EDUCATION

AND TRAINING

SPONSORED BY

SCHOOL OF TWO HALVES Truro School has revealed details of a new partnership with leading football development centre, Saints Southwest.

Saints Southwest is an official club partner of Southampton Football Club and provides education, community, football and sporting provisions across the south west.

As an official Saints Southwest partner,

Truro School pupils, as well as keen footballers from around Cornwall, will benefit from the club’s commitment to “developing potential for all” both on and off the pitch, providing premier level training and opportunity.

www.truro-penwith.ac.uk

100 YEARS OF MARINE SCHOOL

Truro School will be the hub for all Saints Southwest provisions and programmes across Cornwall.

Falmouth Marine School has been celebrating its centenary.

Last month marked 100 years of providing training for the boatbuilding industry, an integral part of the maritime history of Cornwall.

KICKSTART FROM THE COLLEGE CCB Training, part of the Cornwall College Group (TCCG), has become an approved intermediary representative for the Government’s Kickstart Scheme, and is urging local businesses to get involved.

The Kickstart Scheme is a £2 billion fund to create hundreds of thousands of highquality, paid six-month work placements for young people.

“This is a great opportunity for employers from all industry across the private, public

ADVERTORIAL

and voluntary sector to get involved,” said Justin Olosundѐ, assistant principal external engagement and business innovation, TCCG. “Kickstart will give employers the opportunity to take on a young person in a new role or for a specific project.

“Employers will not only be helping to address the current and future skills shortage, they will strengthen their own recruitment pipeline, and increase diversity into their workforce.”

Then on the October 1, 1920, 96 apprentices from Cox & Co (Falmouth Docks) began their boatbuilding apprenticeships with the college, thus heralding the start of the marine school.

Head of Falmouth Marine School, Steve Taylor, said everyone at The Cornwall College Group campus was “very proud of our history”.

A FULL MENU OF SUPPORT The Covid 19 pandemic has impacted the food and hospitality industry in a number of ways. Many businesses within this industry have been forced to adapt in order to survive.

During the pandemic Cornwall Council’s Business Regulatory Support team have been on hand to support with regulatory guidance and information webinars.

Alongside the continued support for all manner of businesses, the team have developed a range of support packages

36 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

As a site of education, the school can trace its history back to 1825, when it was originally known as the Falmouth Classical and Mathematical School, providing education in Latin, Greek, French and mathematics to the residents of a rapidly growing Falmouth harbour.

for the food and hospitality industry.

• Gain or Retain – The food hygiene rating of a food business is the key indicator to the public of how a business manages its’ food hygiene policies. A food safety officer will visit the business and provide practical and appropriate advice for the business on how to achieve the highest possible standards. The officer will write this up in a simple and easy to understand report. This is suitable for new businesses that want to ensure that they start off on the right foot

FOOD &

The Cornish Spirits Drink Company has launched its new Cornwall’s Ray of Light Gift Pack at the Great Cornish Food Store in Truro.

CHARITABLE SPIRIT DRINKS

BY POST

In partnership with St Eval Candles, Cornish Spirits will donate £5 from the sale of every pack to the ShelterBox Trust, supporting the vital work carried out by the charity in conflict and disaster zones worldwide.

This Gift Pack includes a 70cl bottle of Land of Saints Cornish Organic Gin and a handcrafted St Eval candle fragranced with Orange and Cinnamon to pair with the organic botanicals of the gin.

UK’S ‘MOST EXCITING’ FOOD SCENE According to the publication, best places to eat in Cornwall are: South Coast • Fitzroy, Fowey Cornwall features in this month’s Condé Nast Traveller’s magazine as having the most exciting food scene in the UK right now.

The publication says: “Cornwall has reeled in out-of-town foodies since Rick Stein set the seaside-bistro blueprint 45 years ago.

Today a new breed of London-jaded chefs is shining a light on all things homegrown, muddying their boots and chasing afterwork surf instead of Michelin stars.”

and existing businesses that want to review their existing policies.

• Licensing Direct – Ensuring the correct licences are in place, is vital for any business. The team signpost business to the licences that are relevant to them. They can also provide licensing support to take the headache out of licensing applications and get it right first time.

• Allergens Direct - From October 2021 the law relating to labelling of food that is pre-packed for direct sale will be changing and there will be a requirement to fully label products with ingredients including allergens. Businesses that sell prepacked food directly to consumers

DRINK

• North Street Kitchen, Fowey • The hidden hut, Portscatho • Charlestown fish co, Charlestown North coast • Temple, Bude • Prawn on the farm, Padstow • Lola’s, North Cornwall Inland • Coombeshead Farm, Lewannick

could be affected. Allergens Direct can help businesses with practical procedures and policies. Helping to prevent providing misinformation and cross contamination and safeguard against a potentially fatal incident.

Alongside these products the Business Regulatory Support team are able to provide businesses with help in other areas such as:

A Ponsanooth-based business has adapted its drinks catering business to suit the times.

Big things had been hoped for Buffalo Bars this year, the Airstream on wheels which offers a liquid catering service including craft cocktails and a fully stocked bar, to a range of events throughout England.

Undeterred by the sudden shutdown to the events sector, however, husband and wife team Sam and Jo Fitch have instead been delivering their cocktails through the post.

Jo Fitch explained: “This year has been a rollercoaster for everyone. For us, 2020 was projected to be the best year yet for our business The Buffalo Bars, but the pandemic put a clear stop to that.

“Overnight we were struck with 25 cancelled events and no work, and with three children in tow, we had to instantly rethink our future.

Drinks By Post was born from sticking to our ethos, ‘wherever you are and whatever your surroundings, there is no excuse for mediocre drinks’.”

To find out how the Business Regulatory Support team can support your business: Visit: www.businessregulatorysupport.co.uk/food Call: 0300 1234 212 Email: businessadvice@cornwall.gov.uk

• E-Learning • Health and Safety • Pest Control • Fire Safety • Weights and Measures • Legionella Management BUSINESS CORNWALL | 37

CREATIVE

AND DIGITAL

HEADFORWARDS INTO THE FUTURE

Known across the industry for its Agile custom software development, Headforwards is applying its technical and commercial experience to support organisations from ideation to implementation and launching to market.

Pool-based software company Headforwards is expanding its services.

Founding executive director, Toby Parkins, said: “Our team has been doing excellent

NEW-FOUND FREEDOM A trio of businessmen in the signage industry are seeing their new business thrive after turning lockdown adversity in success.

When Cornwall-based sign and interior firm, 2020 Projects, went into administration earlier this year, two of its former employees faced an uncertain future. Former project manager and install manager Mark Minton and Mark Williams joined forces with

project-based work with a wide range of businesses for a few years already.

“Now is the ideal time to expand that offering and provide these services to more clients of all sizes. We’re hoping that our enhanced services can help bridge those gaps and ensure clients have exactly what they need to thrive.”

PARLIAMENTARY ABG

previous colleague, Daniel O’Riordan, to create Freedom Signs.

The newly-formed Perranporth-based business has already delivered several successful projects to high profile names such as The Tate St Ives, Porthcurno Telegraph Museum and Truro BID. Minton said: “We’ve certainly hit the ground running despite an uncertain economic climate, which is amazing.”

ABG Design features in the Creative Industries 2020 Parliamentary Review.

The Parliamentary Review is a snapshot of what businesses are delivering through the year, showcasing a range of businesses in a number of categories.

IN MEMORY OF AMAZING MAISIE

The Review tells a national story of how businesses are performing and shares the stresses and successes that SMEs face on a day-to-day basis.

A bereaved mother from Truro has published an illustrated book about grief in memory of her daughter, Maisie.

MD Howard Miles said: “We are all delighted that ABG Design are featured in this year’s Creative Industries Parliamentary Review. We are one of only 11 companies to be chosen and we are the only Cornish company to feature which we are very proud about.”

Hannah Chapman lost her daughter, Maisie, to Mitochondrial disease in 2018 when she was just six months old.

Eager to turn her loss into a positive, she is now self-publishing an illustrated book about her grief called Yellow Day, hoping that it will help others going through similar bereavements. Book sales will also raise vital funds for the Lily Foundation, a charity

committed to supporting families affected by Mitochondrial disease.

Hannah said: “We have now raised almost £23k with help from friends and family.

Turning your loss into physical action has really helped us.”

Mitochondrial disease is a type of genetic metabolic disorder where energy isn’t able to be processed properly. Although rarely heard about, it is estimated that one in every 4,000 people has mitochondrial disease.

Yellow Day available from amazingmaisie.com

EGGCELLENT COLLABORATION A new precision farming solution for poultry farmers has been developed through a partnership between Cornish agri-tech business Glas Data and Cumbria-based poultry software specialist Eggbase.

The smart poultry sensors will allow egg producers, pullet rearers and broiler growers to monitor poultry housing conditions with greater accuracy. The sensors will gather 38 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

key data about bird welfare and behaviour including temperature, humidity, sound and ammonia levels. Water, electricity and feed usage can also be monitored.

Glas-Data co founder, Colin Phillipson, said: “The system can also send out real-time alerts by email or text message, allowing bird welfare and behaviour to be monitored more closely and ensuring immediate action is taken if issues are identified.”

CREATIVE CONSCIENCE Local marketing agency, Conscious Creatives, was recently named Best Sustainability Marketing Firm 2020 - UK at the Global Business Awards.

The awards, which are organised by Corporate Vision, highlight the Trurobased company’s commitment towards empowering organisations to embrace sustainability in an economically viable way.

Mark Roberts, CEO at Conscious Creatives, which is currently in the process of completing its B-Corp accreditation, said: “We are all acutely aware of how our day to day lives impact the ecosystem, especially as a result of the pandemic, and so there is no better time like the present to implement sustainable change and make a difference.”

NEWS

SPONSORED BY

#FSBCONNECT

HOME CIRCUMSTANCES WILL AFFECT WORK You will find at www.gov.uk/guidance/ working-safely-during-coronaviruscovid-19 14 guides that cover a range of different types of work.

You can use these guides as you think through what you need to do to keep people safe and how you talk to them about keeping themselves safe. Not just at work but at home and as they go about their daily lives. In disease and mental health terms, they bring all of that to work with them!

Businesses can help stop the spread of coronavirus and alleviate anxiety by

supporting staff with some appropriate holistic guidance.

Personal issues can be tricky, so FSB members have the benefit of the support of FSB services to get this right. FSB Legal, are experts in employment law and will explain what employers can do to assist staff and enforce rules where necessary. FSB Care can also help with personal, illness and mental health issues.

If you need our help or want to find out more, call 0808 2020 888 and they can put you in touch.

DE-STRESSING YOUR FINANCES

PETER MCGAHAN

LAURA WHYTE

Finances are under more strain than ever this year. What can you do to protect your business? If you are a small business owner with personal finances, guarantees and certainly livelihoods at stake you will need to know what options are open to you and if there is anything that you can prepare in advance to keep the wolf from the door. We have advice, from experts that many already know and trust, who will give you some strategies and ideas to help you: Peter McGahan - CEO of Worldwide Financial Planning who has written for FT Business and other financial press as well as consumer columns for over twenty years. He was voted media IFA of the year because of his forthright style and healthy cynicism of financial products.

Laura Whyte – MD of Whyfield leads this award-winning organisation’s team in providing specialist management accounting advice and

LEWIS ASHFORD support to a wide range of clients and generally helping people and organisations on their journey to success.

Lewis Ashford – commercial relationship manager SME Banking. After 12 years with the Co-operative Bank, Lewis works alongside SME businesses across the south west. With the uncertainty that the recent pandemic has brought Lewis will be on hand to discuss & answer your questions on business finances, and what support is available to you.

The Co-operative Bank is also the provider of the FSB Banking service.

This online event on November 3 is free to all and is one of the activities taking palace for the Cornwall Festival of Business. FSB members and non-members alike are welcome to attend.

For general enquiries regarding this event, please email vanessa.gale@fsb.org.uk

FSB Offer for Business Cornwall Magazine Readers at www.fsb.org.uk/join If you want to join FSB after reading this page then please quote BCM30 when you join and save £30!

KEEPING THE PRESSURE ON FSB remains at the forefront of informing Government during this pandemic crisis and has been clear to point out that Government support should be much more carefully targeted so that it reaches those most in need.

It is important to remember that the need for speed rightly shaped the design of initial emergency schemes but lessons must be heeded from what we already know and although plans may still need to be swiftly implemented, there needs to be more finesse to maximise impact.

A lot of the biggest issues facing us are comprehensive and affect the whole small business community. Targeting sectors that need the most help is correct but excluding groups based on their company status is not the right way forward and will be a double whammy for many in those sectors in trouble. For example, we desperately need more acknowledgement of the thousands of company directors and sole traders that have received no income support during this crisis, despite dutifully paying taxes for years. And it follows, not to make things worse, FSB is calling on Government to rule out any tax hikes in the immediate future.

The job retention scheme, bounce back loan initiative, small business cash grants, self-employment income support scheme, sick pay rebates and tax deferrals have all helped ultimately viable small businesses keep their heads above water and continue to make an economic contribution. As each new day and new announcement passes more previously good businesses are finding themselves at risk.

So as the FSB continues speaking with policymakers to make the case for more effective support, the emerging views of you, our business community, are vital so please add your evidence as to what will help you.

Email ann.vandermeulen@fsb.org.uk BUSINESS CORNWALL | 39

TOURISM

NEWS

TOURISM MINISTER VISITS Representatives from Cornwall’s top tourist attractions met with the Minister for Tourism, Nigel Huddleston MP, during his recent visit to Cornwall, giving them a platform to talk about the county’s response to coronavirus and how our visitor attraction industry has responded.

The Minister visited the Eden Project, Bodmin Jail and Paradise Park during a week in which he held meetings with businesses across

SPONSORED BY Cornwall – including hotels, accommodation providers, hospitality and visitor attractions.

During a series of visits, led by Visit Cornwall chief executive, Malcolm Bell, the Minister heard about ways in which our visitor economy has been affected by the pandemic, and listened to calls for further support.

Jonathan Bray, chair of the board of directors of Cornwall Association of Tourist Attractions, said: “There are many positive stories for our industry, showing how we have been able to pivot and adapt in these unusual times – but this doesn’t negate the fact that for many of our Cornish tourism businesses, these are very tough times and the winter is going to present further financial challenges.”

THE TRAVELLERS’ CHOICE beaches, attractions and more, the Travellers Choice Award is based on millions of reviews and opinions from travellers around the world.

The awards reflect, ‘the best of the best’ for service, quality and customer satisfaction.

Hendra Holiday Park in Newquay has won TripAdvisor’s highest accolade, the Travellers Choice Award for 2020.

Presented annually to the world’s best hotels, restaurants, B&Bs, holiday resorts,

Director, Jon Hyatt, said: “This wasn’t quite the year we had initially planned for, but we have adapted well and introduced lots of new measures on the park to keep the staff and guests safe whilst providing memorable holidays to our guests.”

ADULTS ONLY

“Some of our guests are teachers and childcare professionals, and are perhaps happy not to be reminded of their day jobs when they go away for a break.”

In preparation for its new status, the business has joined the Tranquil Parks group which comprises 40-plus independentlyowned adults-only UK holiday parks.

40 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

Holiday lettings company Cornish Gems has been nominated for a British Travel Award, for the second year in a row.

Cornish Gems, which has a collection of 180 of luxury holiday homes on its books, is shortlisted in the Best UK Holiday Cottage Company category.

Last year Cornish Gems won gold, bringing home the trophy having been crowned the Best (Southern) UK Holiday Cottage Company.

Commenting on the nomination, Julianne Shelton, co-managing director at Cornish Gems, said: “We are immensely proud to have been nominated for the British Travel Awards again this year.

“A welcome piece of exciting, good news in what has been a very challenging year for the travel industry and certainly our most difficult to date, since we started trading over 13 years ago.”

Winners will be announced on December 14.

their doorstep to visit, stay or eat out while following the rules and guidelines to combat the spread of Covid-19.

Jane and Ian Akeroyd, who run the park together with their son Jake and Ian’s father Derek, said they believe that the decision will be welcomed by many visitors.

“Our specialisation, though, is peaceful, wellkept surroundings in glorious countryside – and we tend to attract the type of visitors who are seeking exactly that type of escape.

GEMS IN THE FRAME

SHARE A SMILE

Trethem Mill Touring Park on the Roseland Peninsula has announced that it will be a child-free zone from April.

“There are lots of superb holiday parks throughout Cornwall which cater for families with youngsters,” said Jane Akeroyd.

www.visitcornwall.com

A new campaign has been launched to encourage local people to support the south west’s leisure and tourism industry during the quieter winter months.

The accommodation and food service sector employs 271,000 people across the region, but many businesses have been hit hard by the devastating impact of lockdown, followed by the need to operate at reduced capacity and, more recently, limited opening hours.

Now the Share a Smile campaign aims to inspire locals to discover great places on

Social media users can support their favourite businesses by sharing recommendations on Instagram and Twitter using the hashtag #ShareaSmileSW. Prizes will be up for grabs and a dedicated website will showcase the region’s best-loved destinations for local people to enjoy safely.

Share a Smile is the brainchild of accountant and business adviser PKF Francis Clark, which has teamed up with Bigwave marketing to launch the campaign.

The initiative is backed by tourism organisations including Visit Cornwall, Visit Exeter and the Eden Project.

CHAMBER

SPONSORED BY

cornwallchamber.co.uk

NEWS

GOOGLE ARTS & CULTURE PARTNERSHIP We are thrilled to have partnered with Google Arts & Culture.

The collaboration celebrates ten unique local businesses and the impact they have in their local community. It gives ten Cornish companies an opportunity to address a global audience - telling their story, highlighting their role within the community, giving details of their expertise, and showcasing their unique Cornish offerings.

The ten businesses included in the partnership are:

• Healeys Cornish Cyder Farm • Ocean Fish • Cockwells • Goonhilly • Geevor Tin Mine

• Minack Theatre • Alchemy Tiles • The Lost Gardens of Heligan

This is the first step in what we hope will be a long-term relationship with Google Arts & Culture, putting Cornwall and its vibrant businesses firmly on the map.

These businesses will be featured on Google Arts & Culture online and via iOS and Android.

You will soon be able to find the ten Cornish businesses via Google Arts & Culture online and via the Google Arts & Culture app, which is free and available online for iOS and Android.

The companies were carefully selected to showcase how Cornwall’s businesses and

For further information please contact hello@cornwallchamber.co.uk

• Callestick Farm Cornish Ice Cream

• Prima Bakeries

cultural sectors interact.

ST PETROCS: CHARITY OF THE YEAR 2020/21 The charity is preparing again to run temporary night shelters in Truro and Penzance through the winter. The team works intensively to find suitable accommodation for clients using this service; last winter 89 people used this service and over two thirds were rehoused.

St Petrocs is Cornwall’s only independent homelessness charity. Its campaign to end street homelessness is working, yet the charity is more in demand than ever before.

Officially, numbers of people forced to sleep on the streets in Cornwall are falling, yet the numbers of people using its services continues to increase. Last year, Cornwall was the only area where numbers of street sleepers decreased for a second year in a row in this country. Numbers went down by 46% from 99 to 53 in just two years. Despite this reduction on the street, St Petrocs’ resettlement team housed people 343 times to keep this number of people sleeping outside, down.

As winter approaches, it is impossible for clients to find shelter from worsening weather. At its resources centres, St Petrocs gives countless dry sleeping bags, wash and dry endless loads of washing and provides more shoes to hopefully - keep feet dry.

Yet the coldest months haven’t arrived yet.

Each year, St Petrocs runs its biggest appeal over the coldest winter months to fund this work. It is continually humbled by the support and generosity of the Cornish community. Last year, its annual winter appeal raised over £115k, and this year it wants to raise even more.

If you’d like to support this appeal by putting some of St Petrocs’ eye catching yellow donation envelopes in a public place - for example a reception area or a staff room – or explore other ways you can support its work, please get in touch for a Winter Appeal Pack.

To hear more about becoming one of St Petrocs’ Business Supporters, please visit the website or give them a call. stpetrocs.org.uk/businesssupporters Tel 01872 260948

WHY JOIN? Cornwall Chamber of Commerce is an independent not-for-profit organisation accredited by the British Chambers of Commerce. We solely exist to represent businesses in Cornwall. Our events provide a platform for businesses to connect, create and make valuable business relationships. Membership to the Chamber starts from as little as £17 +VAT per month and provides you with the tools to promote your business.

Get in touch today to have a chat about how we can support you and your business.

Email: hello@cornwallchamber.co.uk Call: 01209 216006 Online: www.cornwallchamber.co.uk BUSINESS CORNWALL | 41

PEOPLE

ON THE MOVE

A GOODE MAN A Cornish construction company has appointed a new managing director.

Peter Sadler joins St Austell-based Gilbert & Goode with more than 25 years’ experience in the construction industry, specialising in the residential sector.

Gilbert & Goode plans to break ground on three new developments in 2021, with 44 homes in Bodmin, 24 homes in St Teath, and 19 homes in Trewoon.

PEAKY PROGRESS

Falmouth-based marketing agency Peaky Digital has expanded its team to support growing demand.

Ben Clements and Chloe Davison have joined the team as digital marketing assistants, working on a range of client projects and supporting with SEO, PPC and social media campaigns.

Director Natalie Crouch said: “We’re really excited to grow the team to five. This year has been an exciting period of growth for the company and the arrival of Ben and Chloe means that we can continue expanding our portfolio of clients whilst giving them the attention to detail they need.”

Peaky Digital is a full-service digital agency, which also has an office in Leicestershire.

NEW MD AT CEC Cornwall Environmental Consultants (CEC) has appointed Natasha CollingsCostello as its new MD. Collings-Costello brings with her a wealth of local and national environmental management experience. She spent the past six years as county ecologist at Cornwall Council and prior to that roles included environmental manager and project ecologist for the tendering phase of the Forth Replacement Crossing and ecological clark of works on the M1 widening project.

She said: “I am incredibly excited to be joining such a well-regarded consultancy, especially one with nature conservation at its heart through its parent company, Cornwall Wildlife Trust, to whom all profits are donated.”

FINANCE EXPERT

He is an experienced board director and leader of finance, procurement, contract management, tendering and governance teams. He was previously finance director at the Eden Project for five years and held several leadership roles at BT for ten years.

Peter Wroe has been appointed CFO at leading water engineering solutions company, Eliquo Hydrok.

Eliquo Hydrok has an extensive track record of working with all the major UK and Ireland Water Utility companies, providing sustainable water engineering solutions to all manner of complex and simple problems.

Will Duckworth has joined Miller Commercial as a senior commercial surveyor.

Duckworth has an extensive career in the commercial property sector having worked both locally in Cornwall and in Bristol with commercial corporate JLL prior to joining Miller Commercial.

Tom Smith, head of commercial agency at Miller Commercial, added: “My colleagues and I are extremely pleased to have Will on British Lithium has appointed John Walker as strategic advisor.

STRATEGIC MOVE 42 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

Walker started his career at Imerys in St Austell in 1990. He went on to become general manager of the company’s tableware division in Belgium, before moving to the US and taking charge of Imerys North American Ceramics.

More recently, he was at The Quartz Corp, a joint venture between Imerys and Norsk

DUCKWORTH JOINS MILLER COMMERCIAL board as part of our team. His experience and knowledge will be invaluable to our clients.”

Mineral that supplies high-purity quartz to the solar, semiconductor and optical markets.

“We’re delighted to welcome John to our team,” said BLL chief executive Andrew Smith. “He has enormous expertise in our sector, knows Cornwall well and has the knowledge and contacts we need to help BLL progress from meticulous analysis and economic feasibility to operational status within the next three years.”

JUST A THOUGHT

OPINION

Cornwall Chamber chief executive, Kim Conchie, tries to find some sanity amidst the madness

A MASS OF MOVING IMAGES

What I’d give to have one clear thought or prediction at the moment! My mind went down several rabbit holes when Nick asked me to contribute this column.

Here are the polite ones.

1 We all assume companies are struggling in

Covid, but are things that bad in Cornwall or have businesses and businesspeople adjusted and are we coping? We are very resilient here, our largely micro-business and SME community we will keep going at any cost because we employ people from our community, the business has local customers and, hell, it’s what we know how to do, isn’t it?

That’s all good. But the phrase ‘zombie business’ has entered the commercial lexicon again referring to those businesses that are only surviving because interest rates are low, banks are loath to foreclose, and the companies themselves have secured their rate rebate, VAT holiday and are in the interest free period of their Bounce Back loan. This all give a false impression of success and even cash in the bank – but which is going to come back and bite us sometime next year.

There are winners in tech services, food producing and processing, distribution, care, professional services, home improvements, to name a few, and many of

them are desperate to recruit. There were more jobs advertised in Cornwall in August than in any previous year on record. But, is this going to make a dent in the numbers laid off in hospitality, retail, manufacturing, business services when furlough ends?

a no-deal Brexit or has the private sector become so cowed by haphazard Government intervention that we just plod along? Or so flabbergasted at politicians’ lack of understanding of running an SME, that we relish the thought of ploughing our own furrow in a new world, with different objectives and values?

3 Being optimistic, I try to give reassurance

Even within sectors, it’s difficult to generalise as business models vary so much: operating at 70% capacity in one business may produce a profit, whereas for another it will exacerbate losses. The British Chambers of Commerce are putting a lot of pressure on The Treasury to keep their collective ears to the ground. If the worst projections about 2.7 million people being laid off on one day look like coming to pass, further measures must be implemented. Britain’s standing in the World, not to mention Universal Credit, mental health and food banks won’t stand it.

2 Brexit! OMG -

the Withdrawal Period ends in two months’ time.

There are some manufacturers, fish processors, product export/ import agents who are more concerned about tariffs and bilateral restrictions than they are about Coronavirus. Does any of us have the will to fight, or to champion,

I believe that confidence has a huge part to play in business success, markets and spending patterns

and, as a Behavioural Economist, believe that confidence has a huge part to play in business success, markets and spending patterns. There are things happening that will benefit Cornwall in the longer term. I was speaking to a futurologist the other day who is seriously worried at the shape of cities for many decades to come; while predicting that knowledge workers will want to work remotely – and, in that case, their home office might as well be somewhere beautiful (and, say it quietly, but where better than here?). The values that Cornwall has been espousing for many years around business ethics, provenance, quality, bespoke-ness, the individual customer being in control and service being uppermost, will stand us in good stead. The crisis has been a catalyst for change in reducing the use of fossil fuels, factory farming, overuse of resources in all sorts of ways towards renewable energy, tech solutions, digital delivery, remote smart working, sustainable tourism and agriculture, healthtech and marine industries. Now, where did I read those terms? Oh yes - Cornwall’s 10 Opportunities document.

Methinks: let’s hope we can survive till that golden future, then prosper.

That’s the only thought I can corral from the mass of moving images.

BUSINESS CORNWALL | 43

THE WISH

LIST

TO PROMOTE YOUR PRODUCT HERE, CALL CAROLINE ON 07801 981 667

BUTTERMILK CHRISTMAS FUDGE

CHRISTMAS SPIRIT

Buttermilk’s popular seasonal fudge flavours are back for Christmas 2020!

The Cornish brand is well-known for its smaller Christmas fudge boxes that make a thoughtful and delicious stocking filler.

Christmas in a bottle from English Spirit. Small batch, double distilled English rum is spiced with orange zest, juicy raisins, star anise, vanilla pods and cinnamon sticks. An artisan rum liqueur unlike any other: shame it only comes around once a year!

This year, you can enjoy three festive flavours: Irish cream; Mince pie; and Gingerbread (a Great Taste award winner) and also dairy-free mince pie.

All are 100g with an RRP of £2.99.

Available to buy direct from the distillery at: www.englishspirit.uk/shop

The Christmas collection is available at: www.buttermilk.co.uk

wishlist wish list

A few ideas for your letter to Santa.

Welcome to a seasonal edition of the Business Cornwall Wishlist...

TREGOTHNAN TEA

Tregothnan will help you finish 2020 on a high note with the best ever Christmas! Fabulous single estate teas are on offer along with a special Christmas blend. Based on the best-selling Classic tea plus sweet Manuka flowers and spicy cinnamon; you will want every day to be Christmas once you’ve tasted this delicious combination! www.tregothnan.co.uk

LYNHER DAIRIES

Christmas needs to be extra delicious this year. Help make it so by sending hand-made award winning Cornish cheeses straight from Lynher Dairies to any UK address on a date of your choice. Leafy Yarg, handsome Kern or creamy Stithians, beautifully presented and safely delivered at: www.lynherdairies.co.uk

44 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

THE WISH

LIST

ST AUSTELL BREWERY The countdown to Christmas starts here. 24 individual beers from St Austell Brewery and Bath Ales await you.

Including some familiar favourites, a couple of much-loved recipes brought back for Christmas and some one-offs too.

Enjoy tasting them all. RRP £79.99. www.staustellbreweryshop.co.uk

SANDS BOUTIQUE

You will find gifts and stocking fillers for all of the family at Sands, browse in our boutiques or view the gift collection on our website in the comfort of your home. www.sands-boutique.co.uk

ST IVES GIN

From the smooth cobblestones of St Ives, to the wild cliffs of Zennor, St Ives Liquor Co captures Cornish spirit in each and every bottle. Founded by the three Thompson bros, SILCo handcrafts a range of premium Cornish gins and liquors infused with St Ives’ soul; blending locally foraged and fresh botanicals for decidedly different spirits. www.stivesliquor.co

WEIRD FISH

This season we’ve got a fresh take on your favourite Fair Isle print jumper. The Liza is available in five different colours and is a perfect choice for chillier days. This Scandi inspired jumper is super snuggly without being bulky and retails at £45.

Available now at: www.weirdfish.co.uk

BUSINESS CORNWALL | 45

CONNECTED

CORNWALL

SPONSORED BY

www.cioslep.co.uk

RUNWAY RUNAROUND

While participants were not able to gather as usual at Newquay Airport for this year’s Runway Runaround, businesses and individuals up and down the county still took to local countryside raising money for the Cornwall Air Ambulance, including these staff members from Bishop Fleming

CORNWALL COMMUNITY FOUNDATION The Duchess of Cornwall, patron of the Cornwall Community Foundation (CCF), hosted a small tea party last month at Clarence House to mark the charity’s work during the Coronavirus pandemic

THE DUCHESS OF CORNWALL WITH (L-R) TAMAS HAYDU CHIEF EXECUTIVE CCF, COLONEL EDWARD BOLITHO, PRESIDENT CCF AND JANE HARTLEY CHAIRMAN CCF

46 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

THE DUCHESS OF CORNWALL WITH (L-R) JANE HARTLEY CHAIRMAN CCF AND ALASTAIR MARTIN SECRETARY AND KEEPER OF THE RECORDS AT THE DUCHY OF CORNWALL

CORNWALL

CONNECTED

CORNWALL CONVERSATIONS

The new normal for networking over the past several months has been to meet and converse online. And FSB Cornwall continues to meet online every Thursday afternoon, welcoming members and non-members alike

FSE_CIOSIF_Ad_PRINT_Artwork.pdf

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08/10/2020

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Online Job adverts

£49 ONLY

+VAT

To book, contact: morveth@businesscornwall.co.uk

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BUSINESS CORNWALL | 47

THE LAST

WORD

TANUVI ETHUNANDAN CEO and co-founder of Data Duopoly

WHAT DID YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU WERE YOUNG? Skipping over the first “dream job” of being a princess, I had my heart set on being a Vet. I quickly realised that the operating table was not for me (fainting at the sight of blood, was not going to bode well in that career path!).

WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST FULL TIME JOB? My first job was working at Ernst and Young as an associate in More London Place. I worked in the real estate, hospitality and construction sector in audit.

I honestly learnt so much, and very quickly had to understand the financial risks facing businesses while performing audits. This is what fuelled my desire to set up my own company, having seen the inner workings of such a broad spectrum of companies.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE BOOK? My most dog-eared book is Emily Brontë’s Wuthering Heights, after reading it so many times! The drama encapsulating Heathcliff and Cathy in a tormented love story certainly distracts you from any type of day in the office! I am an avid reader, and a very close second, has to be Agatha Christie’s ‘And Then There Were None’, the mystery and suspense meant I read that book almost back-to-back.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE FILM? I think I will have to go with a classic here, ‘Toy Story’. The lengths Woody goes to for Andy is simply adorable!

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE RESTAURANT? This is a very difficult one. Can I say restaurant of Mum?!

She is the best chef I know!

CAN MONEY BUY HAPPINESS? Not entirely. However, it can buy a lot of shoes, and to a self-confessed shoeaholic that is quite close!

WHAT HAS BEEN THE BEST MOMENT IN YOUR CAREER? Two points in time come to mind. The first being meeting Tim Peake when Data Duopoly won the Pitch to the Primes Award at the UK Space Conference. As a young company, the honour and recognition having won the award, after pitching to a group of industry leaders was extremely humbling. The second being celebrating our first work anniversary as an incorporated company.

IF YOU ONLY HAD £1 LEFT IN THE ENTIRE WORLD, WHAT WOULD YOU SPEND IT ON? It depends when you ask me, if it’s after a long day in the studio, probably a cup of coffee!

WHAT IS THE MOST VALUABLE LESSON YOU HAVE LEARNED IN LIFE? The harder you work, the luckier you get! It is what my dad has always told me, and it has stuck close in my heart.

WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO BE DOING IN FIVE YEARS’ TIME? Despite the hard graft, I have absolutely loved co-founding Data Duopoly. Every day is a new challenge, and work is never dull. I would love to keep leading Data Duopoly to new heights and see where the company takes us!

48 | BUSINESS CORNWALL

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