Traditionally West Cornwall has been dependent on its indigenous industries of farming, fishing and mining. With the collapse of mining and pressures on farming and fishing, tourism and tourism development has become the largest sector of the economy. Linked to this, the service sector of the district’s economy has also expanded.

The Economic Development of the town therefore has a clear vision that has, as its foundation, the requirement to provide sustainable growth in the local economy. Its aim is to address the decline within town and village centres, improve the image of the area, enhance and promote the area's cultural and industrial heritage but above all to invest in our richest talent - our community.