Cornwall’s Eco-Community will be based on six sites in and around St Austell. This makes it different from other Eco-Community projects: it is the only town to build on existing communities, meaning retro-fitting and integration are essential parts of the task.
The project aims to create a wholly integrated residential and commercial development. As well as 5000 new houses that meet the highest environmental standards, it will feature some 25ha of employment space in a zero carbon development. Part of that involves the allocation of as much as 40% of the land to green space.
The development is in the heart of Cornwall’s traditional clay country, and construction will make extensive use of local clay and aggregates. With a location close to the Eden Project, there are plans to use the geothermal power plant being developed there as a core energy source, and the transport system is being reviewed with a view to introducing electric vehicles and a charging network.
The result is a major opportunity for emerging technology companies specialising in transport, renewable energy and construction materials / techniques.
Exact plans are still to be finalised, and no tenders have yet been issued but interested companies can contact Invest in Cornwall for updates.