Positive Decision for The Beach Anticipated
Monday 11th December 2006
“Questions were raised at the public inquiry by Cornwall County Council and the Environment Agency about our intention and ability to build our holiday resort,” said Andrew Woods, director of developer Ampersand.
“It’s been made patently clear that we can - and will - build our world class holiday resort. The only question which remains to be answered is whether to proceed with the sea defences which meet the most up-to-date level of flood protection or to build the original sea wall.
“The answer to this question now lies with the Secretary of State.
“With the exception of the irrational attitude of Cornwall County Council and the Environment Agency, who argued that the improved sea wall should not be approved because it is contrary to policy, most people would agree that it is simple commonsense to ensure that a holiday resort which is close to the sea, is built with the best level of flood protection.
“We anticipate that the decision will be positive. Whatever happens, we will proceed with the next stage of building our £200m world class resort, which will result in a significant boost to the regional economy in terms of providing high quality, tourist accommodation and facilities, employment opportunities and investment for both St Austell and the wider Cornwall area.
“There has been unprecedented support for Ampersand’s proposal from Carlyon Bay residents as well as many local and regional business organisations - all who want the development to go ahead and believe that it will provide significant benefits which are key to the growth of the area.
“The development will afford a unique opportunity to clear the currently derelict site and provide the type of world-class holiday resort which Cornwall and the UK tourism industry needs,” he said.
“We are most grateful to all those who have strongly supported us and understand that what we are offering to Cornwall is one of the best opportunities the county has seen for a long time.”
The Inspector overseeing the inquiry will submit his recommendations to the Secretary of State in early March 2007. It is anticipated that the Secretary of State will make her decision by Autumn 2007.
