Homes in Cornwall being reconsidered for development despite potential ecological issues, drawing concerns from environmental advocates.
In the heart of Cornwall, a new housing development proposal by Wain Homes has sparked debate among locals and council members. The revised plan, which includes the construction of 275 homes in Truro, has raised concerns about the reduction in affordable housing and traffic congestion.
Wain Homes, a development company specialising in the North and South West, has proposed a revised plan for building 275 homes in Truro. However, the revised plan includes a reduction in the number of affordable homes for the Dudman Farm development, from 40% to 30%. Reb Nolan, Liberal Democrat Cornwall Councillor for Truro Boscawen and Redannick, has expressed concern, stating that the proposed 30% affordable housing is less than the council's policy of 35%.
The reduction in affordable homes is due to economic viability, according to the developer. Yet, the reduction has not sat well with the community. An online petition opposing the development has gathered over 1,000 signatures. Residents have raised safety and traffic concerns about the proposed access through Penn an Dre, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS). The road leading to the eastern part of the site goes past a children's play area, raising further safety concerns.
Cllr Nolan has also expressed concern about the proposed access through Penn an Dre, stating that the road is not suitable for the increased traffic. Residents fear that the increased traffic could lead to congestion and potential accidents, especially given the proximity of the children's play area.
The company that proposed the construction of over 200 new houses in Truro, Cornwall, in 2015 is not identified in the provided search results. However, Cllr Nolan stated that the houses at Penn an Dre were not present when outline permission was first granted in 2015.
If the proposal is approved, 60-70 of the 200 planned houses in the eastern part of the site will be affordable rentals. Despite the controversy, the developer claims to recognise the importance of providing affordable housing in Cornwall.
There is growing opposition to the development on the council's online planning portal. As the decision approaches, the community waits to see if their concerns will be addressed, and if the development will proceed as planned.
