Nigel Gooding
About the researcher
As a South West England-based entrepreneur with a thriving business in an area renowned for its natural beauty, my research explores the intricate balance of fostering business development in these unique environments, with a particular focus on Cornwall. My personal connection to Cornwall, where my grandmother was born in the workhouse at St Austell, has profoundly shaped my lifelong interest in the region.
My professional expertise spans innovation and technology, including Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, and Digital Technology. I hold a Master of Laws in Information Rights Law and Practice and serve as an external examiner for Master of Laws and MBA programs. Additionally, I am a Fellow of both the Chartered Management Institute and the British Computer Society (Institute of IT) and hold a University Postgraduate Teaching Qualification from Falmouth University.
Outside of my academic and professional pursuits, I enjoy exploring the natural beauty of the South West with my dog and actively contribute to the local community as a rugby referee in Devon and Cornwall.
Research interests
My professional and personal experiences uniquely align with my research interests in the intersection of business development and the preservation of natural and cultural heritage in areas of outstanding beauty, such as Cornwall. My entrepreneurial background provides firsthand insight into the challenges and opportunities of innovating and fostering growth in these environments. My expertise in technology, including Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity, informs my exploration of how digital solutions can support sustainable development and enhance resilience in local economies. Additionally, my legal background and academic roles deepen my understanding of regulatory frameworks and governance, which are critical for balancing economic growth with environmental and social stewardship. This holistic perspective allows me to approach my research with a comprehensive understanding of the dynamics shaping such regions, underpinned by a personal connection to Cornwall’s heritage.
PhD abstract
Thesis title
Balancing Nature and Business: Advancing Sustainable Business in Cornwall's National Landscape
Abstract
How can the 2022-2027 Cornwall National Landscape Management Plan, serve as a framework to define and implement best practices that promote economic resilience and environmental stewardship in areas of outstanding natural beauty?
Research overview and context:
This multi-disciplinary research aims to explore the conflict that exists between the mandatory requirement to promote sustainable business growth and development in Cornwall's National Landscape, (CNL) formally known as the Cornwall Area of Outstanding Beauty.
Recent studies on Natural Landscapes (NL) have covered many topics. Yet, the role of fostering sustainability and business development in protected landscapes is a topic which lacks is under-explored. This research focuses on Cornwall's NL a significant part of the county's economy. The research will use and through practice and action research contribute to the CNL's Management Plan (2022-2027) by investigating the identified and often perceived conflict between sustainability and business development.
This research examines and critically analyses the CNL in promoting sustainable businesses. It will analyse their Management Plan (2022-2027) to identify opportunities and challenges for current and future businesses that align with the Cornwall NL vision and strategic priorities.
The research will involve stakeholders at various levels and incorporate lessons from successful models in the UK and globally.
Sustainable development has emerged not only as a global and local strategy through the Sustainable Development Goals but has also generated ongoing epistemological and theoretical debate. The research will draw on a theoretical approach that integrates social, economic, and environmental dimensions. This research will be informed by these broader theoretical discussions and in particular draw on theoretical frameworks that explore the relationship between sustainable development and reflexive modernity (Borne 2010; Borne 2018).
Qualifications
| Year | Qualification | Awarding body |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Postgraduate Certificate in Higher Education | Falmouth University |
| 2021 | Master of Laws | Northumbria University |
| 2020 | Postgraduate Diploma in Law | Northumbria University |
| 2019 | Postgraduate Certificate in Data Protection and Information Governance | Northumbria University |
| 1995 | Postgraduate Certificate in Management | Bolton University |
Honours & Awards
| Year | Award |
|---|---|
| 2023 | Fellow of the Chartered Management Institute |
| 2022 | Fellow of the Institute of IT (British Computer Society) |
| 2018 | Fellow of the European Policy Risk Institute |