Planning inspector rejects developer's appeal to build 40 homes near Redruth

A planning inspector has dismissed an appeal from a developer over Cornwall Council's refusal to grant planning permission for 40 new homes on the edge of Redruth.

Gareth Isaac concluded that the proposed development at West Tolgus was not sustainable and was out of character with the surrounding area.

Cornwall Council rejected the application by First Step Homes (SW) in November 2011, saying it was a greenfield site, outside the settlement boundary and not well integrated.

The company responded by submitting a second application, this time for 30 homes, and shortly after lodged an appeal with the Secretary of State for the original application.

10% Oil Fired Central Heating Servicing and Repair OAP and Armed...

Jonny Oilman Oil Fired Central Heating

View details

Print voucher

Beat the Cornish weather with this great oil fired central heating servicing and repair offer from JonnyOilman. 10% Discount on servicing and repair of oil fired boilers in mid and west Cornwall

Terms: Armed Forces and OAPs Only

Contact: 0800 9558559

Valid until: Wednesday, June 26 2013

The planning appeal was held in Camborne in December, when the inspector, Mr Isaac, listened to all parties and visited the site.

His judgement, released this week, found in Cornwall Council's favour.

He said: "The site and its surroundings do make an important contribution to the rural setting around the fringe of the urban area in vies from the A30 and from the road that runs though West Tolgus."

And he said: "The proposed development would not be acceptable having regard to the aims of local and national planning policies concerning accessibility of development."

Mr Isaac's decision was welcomed by members of West Tolgus Residents' Association.

Spokesman Peter Lee said: "We are elated, but mindful that they (the developer) could still appeal to the High Court.

"Everything we said about this proposal - out of character, poor accessibility and lack of local amenities - the planning inspector agreed with."