Advice has been given following a pre-application for affordable housing on Smithick Hill, Falmouth.

The site is located between residential and retail area in the centre of Falmouth. For a while it has been unused, become overgrown and access is restricted.

The proposal, by community-led group Ambos, shows the development of approximately 20 affordable units of (1, 2, 3, and 4 bedroom apartments and houses).

These include a shared common house facility, incorporating a shared kitchen, dining, activity, and laundry spaces, and 7 individual studio workshops of a range of sizes.

The project includes associated rooftop terraces, balconies, and parking proposals.

The application received mixed feedback from Cornwall Council's Development Officer, saying at this time it was "unacceptable" in terms of its massing, height and design.

The officer added:

"The proposal is considered to be over-bearing in terms of the impact on neighbouring buildings, the street scene and ope, and un-neighbourly to nearby residential development. There are also objections from the highways officer.

"The Council would encourage the applicant to work with the Local Planning Authority to work up a scheme which is more appropriate to its setting and is encouraged to undertake a further pre-application enquiry, and undertake more discussions with the local community including the Town Council, Local Member, and possible Design Review Panel and/or PlaceShaping Board."

The Highways Development Officer commented:

"I acknowledge that the site is located in a highly sustainable location relative to the surrounding services and facilities but based on the absence of onsite parking and pressures it would bring to on-street parking in the locale, the application would not receive highways support in its current format."

However, the officer's report did comment on the development making a "positive contribution" towards the delivery rate of housing in the area.

Also discussed was the impact of the incoming residents which would provide some support for local services and facilities and, in doing so, strengthen the local economy.

You can view the plans for yourself here.

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