PLANS to create a caravan site in Mawgan Porth to provide accommodation for local people has been refused following concerns the scheme would harm the local landscape.

Sea Breezes proposed to create a new access to Windsor Road adjacent to an existing access point at Menalhyl Yard and site up to four caravans on land for long term rent.

But Louise Wood, a chief planning officer at Cornwall Council, refused the application as she felt it would ‘degrade the rural character’ of part of the Watergate and Lanherne Area of Great Landscape Value and because the proposal failed to provide a safe and suitable means of access onto the highway. 

A spokesperson for Sea Breezes said: “This planning application is for up to four standard sized static caravans. If approved, the plan is to start with two and increase to four over time. 

“The site cannot be extended and there is no intention to do so. To the west of the site are existing paddocks required for horse grazing. 

“To the south of the proposed site is a new woodland where we have planted 550 mixed trees and shrubs in partnership with the Woodland Trust to increase bio-diversity and space for local wildlife.

“The caravans will be used for long term rental to local people needing a place to live, not holiday makers or used for second homes. The use of static caravans is a low cost and affordable option.

“The use of caravans is not out of keeping in the area as we are opposite Sun Haven caravan park and currently five out of our six immediate neighbours currently have static caravans for various uses on their property.  

“Road access to the site will be to the north of the boundary, adjacent to Menalhyl Yard and opposite the access road to Mawgan Cove element of the Sun Haven holiday park. 

“As such, this is a natural point for vehicles to slow when transiting along Windsor Road.

“The access point will require the creation of an opening in an existing hedge with the loss of some hedging, circa 18 feet, and replaced with gates.”

The highways officer added: “The access by virtue of its positioning would in effect create a six-arm junction.”

Louise Wood said: “In the absence of any special justification, the proposal would create unsustainable new dwellings in the open countryside in conflict with the spatial strategy of the development plan.

“In addition, the use of land for the siting of two caravans shall, through their introduction, harm the predominantly undeveloped locality and would degrade the rural character of part of the Watergate and Lanherne Area of Great Landscape Value and the proposal also fails to provide a safe and suitable means of access onto the highway.”