The Lost Gardens of Heligan has successfully secured £300,000 from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund to establish a groundbreaking education centre at its historic 200-acre estate in Cornwall. The initiative, named the Heligan Learning Seed Pod, aims to refurbish existing buildings and create a new hub focused on education, skills, and learning.
Managed locally by the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Good Growth Programme, the funding will also support the recruitment of four permanent staff members dedicated to the Heligan Learning team, who will develop and manage the educational programme.
David Harland, chief executive of Heligan, expressed excitement about the project, highlighting its commitment to nature recovery and community engagement. “Heligan is a natural home for a programme that promotes health and wellbeing through nature, horticulture, and sustainability,” he noted.
The total investment for the Seed Pod project will exceed £1.5 million, transforming Heligan into a key advocate for agriculture, horticulture, and systemic change in the region. The facility will also offer practical amenities for local community groups, reinforcing Heligan’s commitment to inclusivity.
Managing director Laura Chesterfield emphasized the centre’s open-door policy, stating that the large indoor classroom will serve various community groups, including the Heligan Scouts, and will support an extensive volunteer programme.
Cornwall Council’s portfolio holder for economy, Councillor Louis Gardner, praised the initiative, stating, “This new multi-use facility will benefit visitors, local residents, and community groups alike, creating new jobs and volunteer opportunities.”
The Heligan Learning Seed Pod represents a significant step forward in promoting education and community engagement within the scenic backdrop of the Lost Gardens of Heligan.
Image credit: Heligan Gardens
