A PLAN to source underground heat for the Eden Project and surrounding homes will be given a £1.4m boost by Cornwall Council.

The hot rocks project near St Austell could prove the potential for further deep geothermal power for the rest of Cornwall, says the Council’s Cabinet.

The initiative will involve drilling a well to gain access to the rocks deep below Bodelva. Enough heat and electricity could be generated not only to power the Eden Project, but for surrounding homes too.

Cabinet members agreed to provide a £1.4m grant, subject to the Eden Project achieving £15.3m from other sources including the European Development Fund.