The East Sub-Area Planning Committee of Cornwall Council met on Monday 16 March 2026 to discuss two planning applications and review an appeals report. The committee unanimously approved an application for the demolition of a dwelling and construction of a replacement at Little Mesmear, St Minver, and granted Permission in Principle for the construction of dwellings at Yellow on the Broom, North Hill, by a vote of six to two with two abstentions.

Little Mesmear, St Minver: Replacement Dwelling Approved

The committee unanimously approved an application for the demolition of the existing dwelling at Little Mesmear, Treglines Lane, St Minver, Wadebridge, Cornwall, PL27 6RA, and the construction of a replacement self-build dwelling with a change of use of land to associated residential use. The decision was made subject to conditions outlined in the report.

During the discussion, Councillor Meagor of St Minver Highlands Parish Council spoke against the application, raising concerns about the heritage and character value of the existing building, and the proposed replacement being significantly larger and modern in character. Matt Hawcroft also spoke against the proposal. Samuel Fuller spoke in support of the application. A statement was read on behalf of Councillor Moore, the Electoral Division Member, who had brought the application to the committee due to its finely balanced nature. She noted concerns about the heritage and character value of the existing building and the emphasis in planning policies on protecting the countryside.

Officers clarified points regarding the character of adjacent holiday developments, a previously withdrawn extension application, the proposed use of land for residential purposes, the site's planning history, future applications, the impossibility of restricting occupancy with a principal occupancy condition for a replacement dwelling, and that the proposal was for a self-build development.

The debate highlighted that the application was finely balanced, but members felt the proposal would sit comfortably in the landscape with minimal impact. It was concluded that there were no planning policies that could justify refusal. The decision to approve was moved by Councillor Moorcroft, seconded by Councillor Long.

Yellow on the Broom, North Hill: Permission in Principle Granted

Permission in Principle was granted for the construction of dwellings at Yellow on the Broom, Blythes Farm, North Hill, Launceston, Cornwall, PL15 7PG. The application, which sought permission for between 4 and 9 dwellings, was approved by a vote of six in favour, two against, and two abstentions.

Councillor Adrian Parsons, the Electoral Division Member for this application, chaired the meeting for this item as Councillor Gibbons assumed the Chair. Councillor Parsons highlighted that this was a Permission in Principle application with strong local feeling, and that the decision should be made openly. He noted the site's chequered planning history, its location outside the development boundary, and concerns regarding flood zone 3 and the presence of bats. He urged the committee to consider the application within the planning policy context.

Colin Shepheard and Councillor Randall of North Hill Parish Council spoke against the application. Samuel Fuller spoke in support.

Officers addressed members' questions regarding relevant planning policies for Permission in Principle applications, the implications of the tilted balance in housing supply, sewerage considerations, sustainability, the scale of development, flood risk, and the differences between PiP and full planning applications.

The debate revealed frustration regarding perceived limitations imposed by national planning policy and the lack of a five-year land supply. The resolution to grant Permission in Principle was moved by Councillor O'Keefe and seconded by Councillor Emery.

Appeals Report Noted

The committee noted the information relating to appeals lodged and decided between 30 January 2026 and 27 February 2026, as detailed in the Appeals Report.

The meeting concluded at 11:52 am.