We were retained by Truro-based Fortdown Developments to appeal against Cornwall Council’s rejection of its plans for 140 new homes on agricultural land at Quintrell Downs on the outskirts of Newquay.

Outline planning permission for a mixed use development, comprising 117 new homes, retail space, sheltered housing, community care and hydrotherapy centre was originally granted on appeal in 2010. Lack of take-up by potential operators for the community care centre and shops, however, prompted Fortdown to shelve these plans and focus on developing the site for housing.

It submitted a fresh application, this time for up to 140 new homes on the 3.7-hectare site. It would largely comprise two and three-bedroomed houses, as well as 31 two-bedroomed apartments, and 14 four-bedroomed houses. Forty two of the new homes would be affordable, the rest sold on the open market.

Cornwall Council refused consent, claiming the proposal was at odds with the local development plan, and would lead to an unacceptable increase in traffic congestion and reduced air quality.

Its decision was overturned on appeal in November 2017.