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School Transport Cuts & Renewable Energy Debate: Cornwall Council

This week in Cornwall:

School Transport Cuts Threaten Access to Education for Vulnerable Pupils

The Cornwall Council Appeals Committee convened to address requests for travel assistance for pupils across the region, but ultimately refused all but one appeal, which was withdrawn before the meeting. This decision raises concerns about equitable access to education, particularly for students from low-income families or those with special needs who rely on council support to attend school.

  • Limited Assistance: The committee denied travel assistance to students attending Wadebridge School, Penair School, Mounts Bay Academy, and Quay View School, citing various reasons not specified in the meeting summary.
  • Impact on Vulnerable Groups: Without transportation assistance, some families may struggle to afford or arrange transport, potentially leading to increased absenteeism or a shift to less suitable schools closer to home.
  • Transparency Concerns: The lack of detailed reasoning behind the denials raises questions about the fairness and consistency of the decision-making process.

The decisions made by the Appeals Committee could have significant consequences for the educational opportunities of vulnerable pupils in Cornwall.

Read more about the Appeals Committee meeting.

Solar Farm and Geothermal Plant Proposals Spark Debate Over Renewable Energy vs. Environmental Impact

The Strategic Planning Committee considered applications for a solar array and battery energy storage system (BESS) near St Dennis and a geothermal power plant in Camelford, highlighting the ongoing debate about balancing renewable energy development with environmental protection and community concerns.

  • St Dennis Solar Farm: The proposed 32MW solar farm and 45MW BESS aims to power 10,000 homes and reduce CO2 emissions, but faces objections from St Dennis Parish Council and St Stephen In Brannel Parish Council due to environmental, landscape, economic, transport, and heritage concerns.
  • Camelford Geothermal Plant: The proposed 4.9MW geothermal power plant aims to power and heat over 11,000 homes, but has drawn objections from Camelford Town Council and Forrabury & Minster Parish Council, citing the lack of an independent Environmental Assessment and concerns about the site's location in a rural area near environmentally sensitive areas.
  • Conflicting Priorities: These cases illustrate the challenges of reconciling Cornwall Council's commitment to renewable energy with the need to protect its natural environment and address local community concerns.

The Strategic Planning Committee's decisions on these projects will have significant implications for Cornwall's energy future and its environmental landscape.

Read more about the Strategic Planning Committee meeting.

Leadership Board Focuses on Crime, Risks, and Collaboration

The Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Leadership Board convened to discuss strategic issues facing the region, including the Police and Crime Plan 2025-2029, strategic risks to the Cornwall Plan 2050, and an update from the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Executive Group.

  • Police and Crime Plan: Alison Hernandez, Police and Crime Commissioner for Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, presented the Police and Crime Plan 2025-2029, outlining priorities for policing in the region, including antisocial behaviour, drugs and alcohol, serious violence, and theft.
  • Strategic Risks: The board discussed strategic risks to the Cornwall Plan 2050, including resources and financial uncertainty, demographics and workforce, health, housing, investment, climate change and the environment, and societal needs, resilience and safety.
  • Executive Group Update: The Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Executive Group provided a strategic update, including actions arising from the previous Leadership Board meeting, the Director of Public Health annual report, and the establishment of a CIoS HR Community of Practice.

The Leadership Board's discussions highlight the complex challenges facing Cornwall and the importance of collaboration across different sectors to address these issues.

Read more about the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Leadership Board meeting.

Other Matters

Upcoming Meetings

Here's a summary of the upcoming meetings and their main topics:

NHS Cuts Loom, Spaceport Doubts, and a New Licence Approved

This week in Cornwall:

Social Care Faces Shakeup as NHS England Mandates Cost Cuts

The Health and Adult Social Care Overview and Scrutiny Committee met to discuss proposed changes to Integrated Care Boards (ICBs) 1, driven by a mandate from NHS England (NHSE) to slash running and programme costs by 50% in the 2025/26 financial year. The proposed restructuring could significantly alter how health and social care services are delivered in Cornwall.

  • Radical Restructuring: The NHS South West is proposing to consolidate the existing seven ICBs into just three: one for Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly and Devon, one for BNSSG and Gloucestershire, and one for BSW, Dorset and Somerset.
  • Rationale: The Devon and Cornwall model is justified by similar demographics, shared challenges, and a significant overlap of Cornwall patients receiving acute and tertiary services in Devon, particularly at University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust.
  • Local Authority Engagement: The committee emphasized the importance of ongoing engagement with the local authority as the future operating model is developed.

The changes could lead to greater efficiency and integration of services, but also raise concerns about the potential loss of local control and responsiveness to specific community needs. The committee has asked to be kept informed about how the changes will affect the delivery of services in Cornwall.

Read more about the Health and Adult Social Care Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting.

Spaceport Dreams Grounded? Questions Mount Over Newquay's Orbital Ambitions

The Sustainable Growth and Place Overview and Scrutiny Committee heard a pointed public question regarding the future of Newquay Spaceport. Mr Graham Smith from St Mabyn questioned whether the spaceport would ever launch anything into orbit, referencing Boris Johnson's 2021 promise of the Kernow Sat-1 project and subsequent unfulfilled promises of imminent horizontal launches, including a crewed lunar mission this year.

  • Unfulfilled Promises: Mr. Smith's question highlighted the growing skepticism surrounding the spaceport's viability and its ability to deliver on its ambitious goals.
  • Economic Impact: The success or failure of the spaceport has significant implications for Cornwall's economy and its aspirations to become a hub for the space industry.

The question underscores the need for greater transparency and accountability regarding the spaceport's progress and its long-term prospects.

Read more about the Sustainable Growth and Place Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting.

Licensing Committee Approves New Premises Licence for The Croft Inn Despite Resident Concerns

The Licensing Act Sub Committee approved a premises licence for The Croft Inn in Hatt, Saltash, despite objections from local residents who raised concerns about noise, anti-social behaviour, and the potential impact on vulnerable people living in temporary accommodation at the inn.

  • Resident Fears: Residents voiced worries about increased theft, anti-social behaviour, and safety concerns due to the lack of pavements in the area. One resident, Ian Pethick, stated that his wife no longer feels safe walking by herself along the lanes of our village due to the presence of Croft residents often seen with alcohol.
  • Applicant Response: The applicant emphasized that the temporary housing was a partnership with Cornwall Council and that complaints about resident behaviour should be directed to them. They also highlighted the success of previous Temporary Event Notices2 at The Croft, during which none of the Cornwall Council residents used the premises.
  • Conditions Imposed: The Sub-Committee approved the licence with additional conditions agreed upon by the applicant, Devon and Cornwall Police, and Environmental Protection, including amended hours for alcohol sales and recorded music, restrictions on removing drinking vessels, and the implementation of a safeguarding policy.

The decision highlights the challenges of balancing the needs of local businesses with the concerns of residents, particularly in areas with existing social and economic vulnerabilities.

Read more about the Licensing Act Sub Committee meeting.

Other Matters

Upcoming Meetings

Here's a summary of the upcoming meetings and their main topics:

  1. Integrated Care Boards (ICBs) are statutory bodies that bring together NHS organisations and local authorities to plan and deliver joined up health and care services to improve the lives of people in their area. ↩

  2. A Temporary Event Notice (TEN) is a notification given to the licensing authority and the police when someone wants to carry out a licensable activity on unlicensed premises for a limited period. ↩

Cornwall debates street trading, fire safety plan & planning apps

This week in Cornwall:

Street Trading Applications Spark Debate Over Noise and Safety

The Street Trading Sub Committee convened to discuss applications for street trading consents in Falmouth and Newquay, raising concerns about noise, traffic safety, and the balance between supporting local businesses and protecting residents' well-being. The meeting, held on June 25, 2025, highlighted the challenges of managing public spaces and ensuring a fair environment for traders.

  • Falmouth's 'Crab Shack': Mr Mike Lewin's application to sell food and drink from a horsebox trailer on Queen Mary Road, Falmouth faced opposition from Falmouth Town Council due to existing traders and noisy generators. While Mr Lewin proposed a quieter generator, the council's Environmental Protection team requested noise data.
  • Newquay's 'Barrow Boys': Julie McLauchlin's application to sell crepes and doughnuts at the junction of Manor Road and Marcus Hill, Newquay drew objections from Newquay Town Council, citing traffic safety concerns due to reduced visibility at the junction.
  • EU Services Directive: The report pack noted that refusing a street trading consent solely because there are already enough traders or similar products being sold is incompatible with the European Union Services Directive (EUSD).

These cases illustrate the complexities of balancing economic opportunities with community concerns, particularly in popular tourist destinations. The sub-committee must weigh the potential benefits of new businesses against the potential negative impacts on residents and the environment.

Read more about the Street Trading Sub Committee meeting.

Fire Service Seeks Input on Future Risk Management Plan

The Community Wellbeing Overview and Scrutiny Committee met to discuss the Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service's (CFRS) Community Risk Management Plan (CRMP) for 2026-2030. The committee was asked to provide feedback on the plan's priorities and ensure it addresses the needs of all communities, including those seldom heard.

  • Key Challenges: The CRMP engagement leaflet identified several key challenges for CFRS, including adapting to new governance and regulations, responding to population changes, addressing cultural and inclusivity issues, complying with new laws like the Fire Safety Act 2021 and the Building Safety Act 2022, responding to extreme weather events, and finding on-call staff for remote communities.
  • Decision Wheel: CFRS is using a decision wheel1 to ensure its public consultation is accessible and reaches all members of the community.
  • Cabinet Member Updates: The committee also received updates from cabinet members on community safety, tourism, and the environment, including the completion of the King Charles III England Coast Path in Cornwall and the launch of a zero-emission bus in Falmouth.

This consultation highlights the importance of community involvement in shaping public services and ensuring they are responsive to local needs. The CRMP will guide CFRS's priorities and resource allocation for the next five years, making it crucial that it reflects the diverse needs of Cornwall's communities.

Read more about the Community Wellbeing Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting.

Planning Committee to Revisit Controversial Development Proposals

The West Sub-Area Planning Committee was scheduled to discuss four planning applications, including proposals for manager's accommodation at a resort, a side extension to a barn, a new self-build dwelling, and a bungalow. However, no transcript or minutes were provided.

  • Higher Penderleath Resort: The committee was set to consider an application for manager's accommodation at Higher Penderleath Resort, Penderleath, St Ives, which had been recommended for refusal due to its location in the open countryside and within the Cornwall National Landscape (CNL).
  • Wheal Cock Barn: The committee was scheduled to discuss a proposed side extension at Wheal Cock Barn, Helston Road, Porkellis, Helston, which had also been recommended for refusal due to its design and impact on the original building.
  • Land East of Plen An Merther: The committee was set to consider an application for a new self-build dwelling on land east of Plen An Merther, Radnor Road, Radnor, which had been recommended for refusal due to its impact on the setting of the Grade II listed Wheal Peevor engine houses.
  • Land To The Rear Of North Roskear Road: The committee was scheduled to discuss an application for permission in principle for a bungalow on land to the rear of North Roskear Road, Camborne, which had been recommended for approval despite concerns about overdevelopment and access.

These applications highlight the ongoing challenges of balancing development with the preservation of Cornwall's natural and historical heritage. The committee's decisions will have a significant impact on the landscape and character of these communities.

Read more about the West Sub-Area Planning Committee meeting.

Other Matters

Upcoming Meetings

Here's a summary of the upcoming meetings and their main topics:

  1. A decision wheel is a tool used to ensure that engagement and consultation is accessible to all. ↩

Cornwall Faces Funding Changes, Taxi Policy Review & Pension Update

This week in Cornwall:

Council Grapples with Government Funding Changes and Performance Challenges

Cornwall Council's Cabinet met this week to discuss the potential impact of new government policies and funding reforms, alongside the council's performance and finances. The meeting, held on June 18, 2025, highlighted both opportunities and challenges for the council as it navigates a changing financial landscape.

  • Government Spending Review: The Cabinet considered a report on the government's Comprehensive Spending Review (CSR), which includes an increase in the local government budget but relies on councils raising council tax to the maximum permitted amount.
  • UK Shared Prosperity Fund: The report noted that the UK Shared Prosperity Fund will end in March 2026, with only mayoral city regions assured of replacement funding. None of the 100 communities announced to receive funding are in Cornwall.
  • Council Performance: The Cabinet reviewed the Council Performance Report for Quarter 4 of 2024/25, which showed an overspend of £3 million against a net budget of £770 million, offset by using the Financial Sustainability reserve.

The report stated that the County Councils Network responded to the CSR by stating that it will not be a silver bullet for councils' financial challenges.

Read more about the Cabinet meeting.

Pensions Committee to Review Investment Strategy Amid Market Uncertainty

The Pensions Committee was scheduled to meet on June 19, 2025, to discuss the Cornwall Pension Fund's investment strategy and performance. The meeting was expected to cover a range of topics, including responsible investment, risk management, and an update from the Brunel Pension Partnership.

  • Investment Strategy Statement: The committee was set to approve an updated Investment Strategy Statement (ISS), a regulatory document that outlines the fund's approach to investments, risk, and social and environmental considerations.
  • Fund Performance: As of March 31, 2025, the Fund's total market value decreased by £48.74 million to £2,527 million. Total Fund assets produced a negative return of -1.8%, underperforming the total Fund benchmark by 1.8%.
  • Responsible Investment: The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the Fund's focus on responsible investment activities, including developing a Nature and Biodiversity work plan and engaging with the Institutional Investors Group on Climate Change (IIGCC).

The Investment Strategy Statement is a regulatory document required under the Local Government Pension Scheme (Management and Investment of Funds) Regulations 2016 and must be reviewed at least every three years, and updated should there be any material changes.

Read more about the Pensions Committee meeting.

Taxi Policy Review Aims to Enhance Passenger Safety and Modernize Standards

The Miscellaneous Licensing Committee was scheduled to meet on June 20, 2025, to discuss Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Vehicle licensing, including a review of the Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Vehicle, Operator and Driver Licensing Policy. The review aims to enhance passenger safety and modernize licensing standards.

  • Policy Updates: The committee was set to consider a report on the consultation responses and recommend a revised policy to the council for approval.
  • Emission Standards: The updated policy proposes phasing in minimum emission standards (Euro 6) for licensed vehicles by 2027 for new vehicles and 2029 for existing vehicles.
  • Payment Systems: All Hackney Carriage vehicles must be equipped with an electronic/card payment system and accept contactless payments, except when network coverage prevents this.

The council's policy takes into account the Department for Transport (DfT)'s statutory standards and best practice guidance and brings together the Licensing Authority's practices and procedures for vehicles, operators and drivers into one document.

Read more about the Miscellaneous Licensing Committee meeting.

Other Matters

Upcoming Meetings

Here's a summary of the upcoming meetings and their main topics:

Cornwall Wind Farm Debate, Penzance Noise Fears, Pension Update

This week in Cornwall:

Wind Farm Expansion Sparks Landscape Debate

The Strategic Planning Committee met this week to discuss a controversial proposal to repower and extend the Cold Northcott Wind Farm near Launceston. The plan involves replacing existing turbines with up to 22 new, larger turbines reaching 115 meters in height. While the council staff recommended conditional approval, citing the benefits of renewable energy generation, the proposal has drawn significant objections.

  • Landscape Concerns: The Cornwall National Landscape (AONB) 1 voiced strong opposition, arguing the project would harm the designated landscape.
  • Heritage Impact: Historic England also objected, stating the increased visibility would negatively impact nationally designated heritage assets. They deemed the Heritage Impact Assessment insufficient.
  • Local Voices: St Clether, Laneast and Tresmeer Parish Councils, along with Nicky Chopak CC, Poundstock Divisional Member, and Davidstow Parish Council also submitted their views.

The decision has been deferred to June 19, 2025, allowing the committee more time to weigh the environmental and heritage concerns against the push for renewable energy. This decision highlights the ongoing tension between Cornwall's commitment to green energy and preserving its unique natural beauty.

Read more about the Cold Northcott Wind Farm proposal.

Penzance Residents Fear Noise From Revamped Cinema

The Licensing Act Sub Committee considered an application from Merlin Cinemas Ltd for a premises licence for The Ritz cinema in Penzance. The application seeks permission for a wide range of activities, including live music, film screenings, and late-night refreshments. However, the proposal has met with resistance from local residents.

  • Noise Concerns: Residents of Queen Street, Penzance, expressed fears about potential noise and disturbance from late-night entertainment and patrons leaving the premises.
  • Vulnerable Residents: Concerns were raised about the impact on vulnerable individuals residing in local authority housing on Queen Street.
  • Community Impact: Residents also cited concerns about increased traffic, parking problems, and the potential for anti-social behaviour.

Community Protection Services suggested conditions to mitigate noise, including keeping windows and doors shut during performances, noise limits, and a contact number for residents. The applicant agreed to these conditions. The decision underscores the challenges of balancing commercial interests with the well-being of residents, particularly in areas with existing noise sensitivities.

Read more about the Licensing Act Sub Committee meeting.

Pension Fund Update: Navigating Market Volatility and Ensuring Fairness

The Cornwall Pension Fund Local Pension Board met to discuss a range of issues, including fund performance, governance, and fairness for scheme members. The board reviewed the fund's investments, noting a decrease in total market value to £2,527 million as of March 31, 2025.

  • Risk Management: The board discussed the risk register, focusing on geopolitical/market events impacting scheme funding and the potential loss of experienced pension staff.
  • Government Consultation: The board received an update on the government's consultation on Access and Fairness, which aims to address issues such as survivor benefits, the gender pensions gap, and opting out of the scheme.
  • Employer Contributions: The board noted that there were no outstanding contributions owed to the fund by employers for the quarter ending 31 March 2025.

The discussions highlight the ongoing efforts to manage the pension fund effectively, navigate market uncertainties, and ensure fair and equitable outcomes for all members.

Read more about the Cornwall Pension Fund Local Pension Board meeting.

Other Matters

Upcoming Meetings

Here's a summary of the upcoming meetings and their main topics:

  1. An Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is a legally protected area in the United Kingdom, designated for its significant landscape value. ↩

Recent meetings
Street Trading Sub Committee

Street Trading and Pavement Licensing Sub Committee - Wednesday, 16th July, 2025 10.00 am

The Street Trading and Pavement Licensing Sub Committee are scheduled to meet to discuss an application for a street trading consent, and any other business the chair considers urgent.

July 16, 2025
Licensing Act Sub Committee

Licensing Act Sub Committee - Wednesday, 16th July, 2025 11.30 am

The Licensing Act Sub Committee of Cornwall Council met to consider an application for a premises licence for the Wing Shed, and to deal with any urgent business. The meeting was scheduled to discuss an application for a premises licence that had received multiple objections from local residents. Councillors Debra Clegg, Brian Clemens, and Robin Moorcroft were scheduled to attend the meeting, and Councillor Kerensa Roberts was also scheduled to attend.

July 16, 2025
Children and Families Overview and Scrutiny Committee

Children and Families Overview and Scrutiny Committee - Wednesday, 16th July, 2025 10.00 am

We do not yet have a summary for this meeting. Since it is very recent, this may be because we have not yet processed it. Please check back later.

July 16, 2025
Together for Families Overview and Scrutiny Committee

Together for Families Overview and Scrutiny Committee - Wednesday, 16th July, 2025 10.00 am

The Together for Families Overview and Scrutiny Committee were scheduled to meet on 16 July 2025 to discuss the work programme for 2025-26 and the Cornwall Joint SEND Commissioning Strategy and Cornwall SEND Strategic Plan. The committee was also expected to take questions from members to the Cabinet Member on updates.

July 16, 2025
Corporate Finance and Performance Overview and Scrutiny Committee

Corporate Finance and Performance Overview and Scrutiny Committee - Tuesday, 15th July, 2025 10.00 am

The Corporate Finance and Performance Overview and Scrutiny Committee were scheduled to meet to discuss the council's performance, asset management strategy, and work programme for the coming year. The committee was also expected to receive updates from various cabinet members and consider questions from the public.

July 15, 2025
Health & Wellbeing Board

Committee in Common between Cornwall Health and Wellbeing Board and the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Integrated Care Partnership - Monday, 14th July, 2025 10.00 am

The Committee in Common between the Cornwall Health and Wellbeing Board and the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Integrated Care Partnership (ICP) convened to discuss several key issues, including the Better Care Fund, the Healthwatch Cornwall annual report, and the Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) commissioning strategy and strategic plan. The meeting also included updates on the progress of various life course boards and the Integrated Care Partnership Board.

July 14, 2025
Chief Officers Employment Committee

Chief Officers Employment Committee - Friday, 11th July, 2025 9.00 am

The Chief Officers Employment Committee of Cornwall Council met on 11 July 2025 to discuss senior recruitment. Much of the meeting was scheduled to be held behind closed doors due to the confidential nature of the information to be discussed.

July 11, 2025
Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Leadership Board

Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Leadership Board - Friday, 11th July, 2025 2.00 pm

The Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Leadership Board met on 11 July 2025 to discuss strategic risks to the Cornwall Plan 2050, the Police and Crime Plan 2025-2029, and the Civic Universities Agreement Annual Report. The board was also scheduled to receive updates from the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Executive Group.

July 11, 2025
Strategic Planning Committee

Strategic Planning Committee - Thursday, 10th July, 2025 10.00 am

The Strategic Planning Committee of Cornwall Council met to consider planning applications for a solar farm and a geothermal power plant, as well as to note appeal decisions. The meeting was scheduled to discuss a solar array and battery energy storage system near St Dennis, and a geothermal power plant in Camelford. Councillors were also scheduled to note recent planning appeal decisions.

July 10, 2025
Licensing Act Sub Committee CANCELLED

Licensing Act Sub Committee - Wednesday, 9th July, 2025 10.00 am

This meeting has been cancelled.

July 09, 2025
Upcoming meetings
Community Wellbeing Overview and Scrutiny Committee

Community Wellbeing Overview and Scrutiny Committee - Thursday, 17th July, 2025 10.00 am

July 17, 2025
Miscellaneous Licensing Committee

Miscellaneous Licensing Committee - Friday, 18th July, 2025 10.30 am

July 18, 2025
West Sub-Area Planning Committee

West Sub-Area Planning Committee - Monday, 21st July, 2025 10.00 am

July 21, 2025
Chief Officers Employment Committee

Chief Officers Employment Committee - Monday, 21st July, 2025 11.00 am

July 21, 2025
Cornwall Council

Cornwall Council - Tuesday, 22nd July, 2025 10.30 am

July 22, 2025
Health and Adult Social Care Overview and Scrutiny Committee

Health and Adult Social Care Overview and Scrutiny Committee - Wednesday, 23rd July, 2025 10.00 am

July 23, 2025
Licensing Act Sub Committee CANCELLED

Licensing Act Sub Committee - Wednesday, 23rd July, 2025 10.00 am

July 23, 2025
Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Fire and Rescue Service Local Pension Board

Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Fire and Rescue Service Local Pension Board - Thursday, 24th July, 2025 11.00 am

July 24, 2025
Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly Economic Prosperity Board

Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly Economic Prosperity Board - Thursday, 24th July, 2025 11.00 am

July 24, 2025
Appeals Committee

Appeals Committee - Monday, 28th July, 2025 10.00 am

July 28, 2025