A new metro link between Newquay and Falmouth alongside other projects in Cornwall could benefit from the first tranche of Levelling Up Funding (LUF).

The bids will face stiff national competition but the council has been invited to submit applications for works that fit the criteria guidance issued by the Government, and which can be ready to start within the strict timeframe set.

Four projects have been identified. They are:

• Transport - The Mid Cornwall Metro (MCM) project will improve the service between Newquay and Falmouth providing a sustainable transport corridor through the middle of the Cornwall, connecting some of Cornwall's most deprived communities to employment, education (including higher education and university), and key services, as well as supporting key areas of growth.
• Culture - The project to construct a Stadium for Cornwall will build a community and professional sports facility at Threemilestone and will be led by the Stadium partners, including Truro and Penwith College. The stadium project is the only cultural project in a position to be in a position to move forward in the timeframe set by the guidance.
• St Austell - As a priority place for levelling up and town revitalisation as identified by the CC Town vitality programme, development of programme of investment to address key need and opportunity.
• Helston - Supporting advanced development of town regeneration and place shaping priorities including transport, community assets and public realm.

Each parliamentary constituency will only be allowed one successful application for the LUF, and those areas not included in these initial applications will be prioritised in the future.

Cllr Stephen Rushworth, Cornwall Council's cabinet portfolio holder for the economy, said:

"I am delighted we are submitting these initial applications for projects that will directly benefit so many of our residents.

"This is just the beginning, with further LUF funding and Shared Prosperity Funding also due. When we were elected, we promised we would work to create a Cornwall where people can start well, live well and age well, and this is a very real step in the right direction.

"I look forward to continuing to work with our communities to identify other projects that will make a real difference to the everyday lives of people across Cornwall."