The Beach will give us the opportunity to create a truly sustainable resort in economic, environmental and social terms and encourage people to stay in the UK rather than fly abroad.
Ampersand fully recognises the need to create developments that improve the quality of life for everyone, without undermining an area’s natural environment.
As part of our commitment to sustainability, The Beach has become a member of CoaST – the Cornwall Sustainable Tourism Project – which enables us to exchange ideas, knowledge and expertise with other organisations who have pledged their support for best practice.
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Designing for today - and tomorrow
We have already considered rising sea levels by designing the upgraded sea defences which meet the Government’s most up-to-date protection criteria.
Other options to take into account will be:
- the south-facing nature of the site which could be used to harness solar energy
- the apartments themselves, which will be designed to be robust and durable because of the exposed location
- the internal layouts, which will provide flexible accommodation to cater for occupants’ varying needs
- the need to update The Beach in the future with the latest technology
Economic benefits
The development will provide employment and business opportunities for the local community. Approximately 500 jobs will be available during the construction process and a further 450 long-term jobs during the operational phase. Where possible, priority will be given to appointing local people and as well as the training and career opportunities and increased tourism will boost the area’s economy. Materials will be also sourced locally (where appropriate) such as the recharge material for the beach which comes from a local quarry.
Accessible
The Beach will be accessible for everyone, including those with disabilities. Existing public transport facilities will be reviewed, particularly those to and from St Austell with the aim of improving the service and a Green Travel Plan will also be drawn up. Walking, cycling and other environmentally friendly forms of transport will be promoted.
Energy, water and waste management
We will explore options to reduce energy consumption incorporating the potential to harness solar power and re-use rainwater as well as instigating a waste management and recycling programme.
Minimising pollution
We will be considering all the options for minimising air, noise and water pollution and will also be sensitive to other potential problems for local residents, such as light spill, hours of working, haulage and delivery routes.
Protecting and enhancing the ecology
An ecologist will be employed to advise on what needs to be done to preserve the existing ecology of the site and how to enhance it in the future.
‘Green’ buildings
The buildings that make up The Beach will be designed and constructed to the current standards and options for incorporating best sustainable practices will be carefully considered.
Minimal disturbance
A Code of Construction Practice will be agreed with the local planning authority that will include restrictions on traffic routing to minimise the impact on houses near the site, limit the hours of operation, require that both a travel plan is prepared and a travel plan co-ordinator appointed. Noise levels generated by the construction process will be controlled via an agreed scheme based on guidance in BS5228.
Sustainable and recycled materials will be used where possible, as will locally-sourced materials. This will minimise lorry movements, thus reducing the impact of transport.
