MANY readers will have been shocked to see reports in last week’s Packet that nine million pounds of funding set aside for dredging works in the Fal has been absorbed back in to general revenues by Cornwall Council.

I hardly need remind readers of the enormous potential benefits that could flow from allowing large cruise ships to dock in Falmouth Harbour, estimated recently at up to five million pounds into the local economy per year. The boost to the lives and livelihoods of local people from this would be enormous.

While these developments are certainly concerning, all is not lost, as Cornwall Council has highlighted that these funds could be made available again when a full business case for the works is produced.

With environmental assessments due to be delivered over soon, it is essential that the momentum for this project is not lost.

I spoke out to the Council’s Cabinet last week to demand that these funds be re-instated and bolstered by EU grants. I would encourage residents to stay abreast of developments and help me put pressure on Cornwall Council to keep this vital project alive.

Simon Rix,
Prospective Lib Dem MP for Truro and Falmouth