Cornwall’s marine-technology sector is to cement its role as a global leader after it was granted enterprise zone status.

It is said that the new Marine Hub Cornwall Enterprise Zone, covering three sites at Hayle, Tolvaddon and Falmouth Docks, will secure the county’s status as a world-class centre for renewable energy.

It will bring together businesses and expertise in marine renewables and technology, helping to attract investment and create well-paid jobs. Marine Hub Cornwall is one of 12 new enterprise zones to go ‘live’ this spring.

The Newquay-based Aerohub and Goonhilly Earth Station also have enterprise zone status and will be able to attract companies with special tax rebates and incentives to create space-tech jobs in Cornwall.

Sarah Newton, the MP for Truro and Falmouth, said the announcement will strengthen Cornwall’s position as a global player in marine renewables and the wider marine-technology sector.

Its centrepiece is the Hayle-based Wave Hub, which is already the world’s largest wave-energy testing facility.

“Marine Hub Cornwall will build on previous successes and provide a great platform for businesses to grow, create well-paid jobs and work together to attract further world-class talent and investment.”

The announcement followed confirmation that Falmouth Bay will continue to be used as a test site for wave-energy projects for the next five years, following a deal with the Crown Estate.