Plans to build 121 new homes in Penryn has brought anger from residents.

The new 'reserved matters' application submitted by Maypool Estates on behalf of RJ Walker is for a proposed development at College Farm:

"A scheme comprising 121 residential units, open space, play space, associated infrastructure (including retaining structures and works to the highway), access, parking, servicing and landscaping."

The scheme also says that of the houses, 35% will be affordable (42 homes).

The plans were originally put forward in 2015 with a decision on the application being made in August 2017.

The application was brought to light recently after a picture of notice was circulated on social media, the idea for a petition has picked up pace with the 'Save College Valley' Facebook group having nearly 700 members.

A post submitted on the group outlines the objections to the development:

- Loss of green spaces - this is an important space for Penryn residents providing somewhere for recreation, exercise and aesthetic views.

- Habitat and biodiversity - College valley is home to wild roe deer, buzzards, voles, door mice, bats, badgers, eels, foxes. Eels which are found in College reservoir access this by the stream and are listed as Critically Endangered on the global IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Their habitat which is north of the site would be affected by runoff from the building work in the south.

- Risk of flooding - This land currently acts as a natural flood defence for properties which are close to river level in the valley. This site is listed as a critical drainage area which is susceptible to surface water flood.

- Traffic infrastructure - Penryn already has too much traffic around the College Hill and Eastwood road area. A further 100 - 200 extra cars on the road would exacerbate this problem and could be dangerous for emergency services.

- Pressure on local amenities - There is already enough pressure on GP services and schools

- Historical site - This is an important historical site adjacent to Penryn viaduct. Other historical ruins are within the proposed boundary.

The timing has also been brought into question with suggestions the application was "snuck in" amid the Coronavirus epidemic, one comment reads:

"It is despicable that low-down, financial-profit-based applications of this kind are even allowed to be considered at this time. We are all obviously feeling scared and intimidated by the Coronavirus pandemic, but to attempt to sneak an application through to basically destroy one of our precious woodlands whilst we are pre-occupied with keeping basic life together is beyond contempt.

"Even for those lucky enough to live nearby and to be able to walk there, the displayed application on paper had been carefully placed where it was not easily seen."

Another comment reads:

"I strongly object to this application which has been discreetly hidden at a time when we are in the middle of a global crisis both economically and environmentally. Enforced lockdown means fewer people being able to see the application.

"I urge you to extend the deadline for this application until life returns to some sort of normality so people in the area have the chance to have their say.

"There is already too much development in the vicinity with new developments such as Eve Park close by at the top of the hill.

"Penryn does not have the infrastructure as it is to cope with 121 new houses. The local surgery is always full to capacity and it is becoming more and more difficult to get an appointment. There are no dentists accepting NHS patients with a waiting list in Cornwall in the thousands already."

Click here to see the application.

Cornwall Council will make a decision by Wednesday, June 10th.

Cornwall Council have been contacted for a comment.