The Planning Application

A team of leading consultants were appointed to review the various issues, liaise with key organisations and advise on the key components of the new scheme. Of particular importance has been the need to address flood defence requirements, access and design. Following significant discussions and analysis, a revised proposal has been prepared and it forms the subject of this planning application.

 

The planning application documents run to hundreds of pages so you may wish to look at the Planning Summary which provides a detailed synopsis.

 

The hybrid planning application seeks:

 

1. detailed permission for construction of sea defences at Crinnis and Shorthorn, works to Sandy River and cliff stabilisation; and
2. outline permission for a mixed use development including demolition of the existing buildings and preparatory site works, up to 511 residential units (65,500 sqm GEA) for unrestricted occupation allowing a mix of permanent and short term stay (including apart-hotel), 10,436 sqm GEA commercial/leisure floorspace (including 440 sqm retail floorspace), up to 100 sqm of creative space, construction of a podium level and undercroft(s) of up to 42,164 sqm GEA with up to 840 parking spaces and including ancillary facilities (including storage, management facilities and plant), infrastructure (above and below ground) at Crinnis and Shorthorn and a potential bridge link from cliff top and/or steps at Crinnis, a beach facilities building (50 sqm), tennis courts, play area, picnic facilities and steps at Polgaver. Cliff stabilisation, works to the access and landscaping.

 

The planning application seeks to create a unique, high quality, mixed-use, managed complex that is open throughout the year. To achieve this, the application proposes unrestricted occupation of the 511 residential units, resulting in a mix of permanent and temporary residential accommodation comprising a range of types of ownership at the site.

 

Despite the proposed unrestricted occupancy, it is considered highly unlikely that more than a modest proportion of the units will be occupied as permanent residences. CEG has sought professional advice to estimate the realistic proportion of permanent units. This is based on an evaluation of the likely number of units that will be owned as second homes, via fractional ownership, for investment purposes and as private residences. The analysis concludes that the privately owned and permanently occupied residential units will be no more than about 25% (about 100-125 units).

 

A proportion of permanent private residences will assist in the creation of a consistent community – a heart for the development, and will help “root” the scheme in the local area. Unrestricted use of the accommodation will also reduce the seasonality of tourism in the area and provide permanent employment throughout the year.

 

The Group will also provide off-site affordable housing through a financial contribution to be agreed with Cornwall Council. This will be set out in a S106 agreement. The inclusion of unrestricted occupation based on the above analysis will therefore give rise to a number of benefits for the development itself and the wider area. The Planning Statement explains these issues in detail.