The Cornish Pirates have revealed a bold plan to reach the English rugby Premiership, backed by a vision for a new multi-purpose stadium in Cornwall. The Championship club, based in Penzance, is seeking investors to unlock what they describe as untapped potential in a region passionate about rugby.
Chief executive Sally Pettipher confirmed that a 'Prem Plan' is in place, with the club committed to top-flight rugby despite a modest playing budget of around £800,000—less than half that of Championship frontrunners. The Pirates have remained competitive under coaches Gavin Cattle and Alan Paver, but their current home, the Mennaye Field, lacks Premiership-standard facilities.
Negotiations are ongoing for a new arena near the A30, which could include a hotel, medical centre, and space for concerts, creating a community hub. Pettipher stressed that while nothing is finalised, the ambition is clear: 'Cornwall deserves a Premiership club. We're going to build a business that supports one.'
RFU chief executive Bill Sweeney recently visited the club to hear their vision, amid criticism that the governing body has neglected the second tier. The Pirates face a tight deadline, with a potential closed-shop Premiership by 2030. 'We're going to be kicking those doors down,' Pettipher said.
The club's survival was secured in 2022 when a local consortium stepped in after Sir Richard Evans, the longtime owner, announced his backing would end. Evans, now 80 and battling Parkinson's, had previously pursued a Stadium for Cornwall project that stalled due to funding and political issues.
Despite challenges—including an average attendance of 1,722—the Pirates believe their regional identity can mirror successful French clubs like Brive and Vannes. 'You're protecting a heartland here,' Pettipher warned, urging Sweeney to promote investment and prevent rugby from losing ground in Cornwall.
