NEW plans have been submitted to build a housing development on the site of an old railway sidings depot in Newquay.

The revised scheme involves constructing eight houses at the sidings in Trevemper Road on land south west of Trevithick Gate.

The amended scheme aims to address the principal highways concerns of the previous planning application to provide safe pedestrian access without going onto the adjacent A392, which involves creating a pedestrian link to the public footpath.

A spokesperson for the developer Sidings Development Limited said: “The site was formerly and old railway sidings depot for coal and goods, latterly being use for mixed light industrial and workspace for the likes of builder’s merchants and motorcar workshops/sales.

“In 2014 the site was partially demolished and since has fallen into complete disrepair with dangerous structures notices placed upon each remaining building. In 2022 the remaining buildings were demolished, and the site cleared.

“Adjoining the site to the west is a major housing development site being built out by Wainhomes, whilst to the north there are localised individual plots comprising a house and bungalow, with random outbuildings of no specific vernacular or style. The site comprises of housing using a mix of traditional and contemporary styles, whilst utilising the site levels and referencing the heights and scale of the original now demolished buildings on the site.

“The proposals contained in this application address the principal highways concerns in (the previous) application. Safe pedestrian access is afforded within the site without going onto the A392. The site adjoins via a reduced pedestrian access only path, the newly built out site.”

Newquay Town Council’s planning committee has objected to the scheme. A spokesperson said: “Councillors recalled the town council's objection to the initial application in January 2023, which had been largely informed by consultee comments relating to the treatment of surface water, safe vehicular access to and from the A392 and the potential for contaminated land.

“Councillors were encouraged that the amended layout had taken on board local comments regarding the proximity to existing dwellings. When considering this amended design, councillors were reminded of their recent support for application for the land south of Trevithick Lodge, Trevemper and concluded the proximity of the application site to the A392 presents similar issues that seem likely to require similar mitigations against the potential excess noise associated with this busy section of road; an acoustic design statement would appear appropriate.

“Likewise, the proximity of the nearby Biomass Boiler would suggest the need for input from the Environment Agency. Councillors also agreed that, given the original response from highways confirmation should be sought that safe vehicular access to and from the A392 can be achieved. Should permission be granted, councillors questioned whether the current 40mph speed limit along this stretch of road should be reviewed.

“In line with Newquay Neighbourhood Plan policy G2(e), the applicant is encouraged to explore opportunities for including high levels of environmental sustainability, such as renewable energy sources and rainwater harvesting, as part of the overall design. As an additional sustainability measure, councillors would also ask that opportunities for 'grey water recycling' be considered for inclusion wherever possible within the scheme.”

Cornwall Council is due to have the final say on the planning application.