Goonhilly satellite station set for new start

The money will help transform the former BT satellite station into a space science park

The historic Goonhilly satellite station in Cornwall is to be given a new lease of life.

Money from the government's regional growth fund will transform the former BT satellite station into a space and communication centre.

GES, the company which leases Goonhilly near Helston from BT, wants to upgrade the existing antennas and reopen the visitor centre.

Satellite operations at the site ended in 2006.

Ian Jones, GES chief executive, said: "Goonhilly is so important to us. It was the first earth station in the world.

"We could use this for the next 50 years for space exploration and science research and to really contribute to the UK space economy."

Andrew George, the MP for West Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly constituency of St Ives, said: "This is a real jobs boost for the area.

"It will breathe new life into the local economy and help give the UK a competitive edge in an emerging market."