A PRESENTATION has been made to Camelford Town Council regarding a planning application to build 37 houses west of Sportsmans Road, following the council’s initial response to the plans.

At last Thursday’s council meeting, Peter Grubb, director and Ben Wood, planner, both of Savills, addressed councillors about comments made following the submission of the application last October.

The application seeks outline planning permission, with some matters reserved (except access), for the erection of 37 dwellings, the provision of public open space and associated works on land opposite Sir James Smith’s Community School.

During the consultation process, Camelford Town Council unanimously objected to the application on a number of grounds.

It felt the access was dangerous, citing that two road junctions very close together onto the development were unnecessary. It also felt the need of the proposed development in its current format was not demonstrated, as there was not a call for one-bedroomed dwellings. The council said a pelican crossing would be needed for safe access to schools, the leisure centre and further into the town centre. Questions were also raised regarding the need for developers to pay a financial contribution to offset infrastructure demands (section 106) rather than provide social/affordable housing, as this need is currently being met in Camelford.

Mr Grubb took the first comment, the access, and told the council that following talks with the Highways officer, they have redesigned the scheme to only include one vehicular access to the development.

With regards to the crossing, although the town council requested a pelican crossing, the agents talked with a transport consultant and Highways officer, and found that could be a less safe option, so they are continuing with their plans to install a refuge island.

With regards to housing need, Mr Grubb said: “There’s an evidence-based need for more housing.”

While Mr Grubb stated Cornwall needs 52,000 new homes, mayor of Camelford Cllr Rob Rotchell was quick to respond. He said that at a recent meeting it was agreed that the affordable housing requirement for Camelford is being met. Any future developments, he added, would be asked for an off-site contribution for the town, rather than more affordable housing. The next project for the town is a Community Health Hub.

“It’s light years more important than affordable housing,” Cllr Rotchell said.

Cllr Andy Shaw raised concern over the proposed refuge island and the safety of the installation.

“I’ve never been in favour of refuge, it’s a cheap option.”

But Mr Grubb said they were not trying to get out of putting in place the correct form of crossing, adding: “There’s always going to be accidents at those sort of scenarios.”

He said research has shown if there is not a large footfall of people crossing, vehicles will get used to seeing a green light and not stop.

Cllr Rotchell advised councillors that this was the application for outline planning and there would be plenty of opportunity for them to raise objections at a later date if needed.

Mr Grubb agreed it was early stages: “You probably won’t see a house on the ground for five years.”

The mayor thanked Mr Grubb and his colleague for their time.