The Strategic Planning Committee of Cornwall Council met on Thursday 13 June 2024 to discuss several significant planning applications and related issues. The committee approved the application for the Boardmasters festival at Trebelsue Farm, Newquay, and refused the application for a new golf clubhouse and holiday lodges at Gillyflower Golf, Lostwithiel.

Boardmasters Festival at Trebelsue Farm, Newquay

The committee reviewed application PA24/00493 for the Boardmasters festival at Trebelsue Farm, Newquay. The Principal Development Officer presented the application, highlighting the key issues and showing plans and photographs. The officer recommended approval, subject to appropriate conditions.

Several speakers addressed the committee. Ms K La Borde voiced concerns about the environmental impact of the festival, particularly the use of rubber crumb on the pitch. Councillor D Green of Kenwyn Parish Council and Mr R Cleghorn spoke in support of the application, emphasizing the economic benefits and community engagement. Councillor Tudor, the Electoral Division Member, also supported the proposal, noting it was the best alternative use of the land and would provide high-specification sports facilities for the local community.

The committee discussed various aspects of the application, including future-proofing, parking arrangements, and the legal status of rubber crumb. They noted the urgent need to bring Truro City Football Club back to Cornwall, as the club had been traveling to Plymouth and Taunton for home games.

On a vote of 8 in favour, 0 against, and 0 abstentions, the committee approved the application, subject to the conditions outlined in the Committee Updates.

Gillyflower Golf Clubhouse and Holiday Lodges, Lostwithiel

The committee also considered application PA23/02502 for a new clubhouse and holiday lodges at Gillyflower Golf, Cott Road, Lostwithiel. The Senior Development Officer presented the application, summarizing the key issues and showing plans and photographs. The officer recommended approval, subject to appropriate conditions.

Several speakers addressed the committee. Mr M Surgey and Mr P Santo Warner spoke against the application, citing concerns about the impact on the landscape and local environment. Councillor C Martin, the Electoral Division Member, also opposed the application, highlighting the lack of public benefit and the potential harm to the Area of Great Landscape Value.

The committee discussed the application in detail, considering the balance between the benefits and harms. They noted the importance of protecting the landscape and the lack of proven need for the development.

On a vote of 10 in favour, 0 against, and 0 abstentions, the committee refused the application. The reasons for refusal included the harm to the natural character of the Area of Great Landscape Value and the settings of nearby heritage assets, as outlined in the Printed Minutes.

Appeals Report

The committee noted the list of planning appeal decisions received, appeals lodged, and dates of public inquiries, as detailed in the Appeals Report.