PLANS have been submitted to demolish a prominent derelict property overlooking Newquay Bay and build a new development.

The proposed scheme involves knocking down Skerryvore at Island Crescent and constructing a new dwelling.

The existing house and grounds, which have been vandalised in recent years, have been purchased by a family with the view of redeveloping the site to build their new home.

Ben White Architecture, on behalf of the applicant, in the planning statement, said: “The principle of this outline planning application is to gain consent to replace an existing poor quality and neglected large, three storey detached dwelling with a new detached family home.

“The existing property is of poor-quality construction and any original character has been removed from it due to the multiple alterations that it has been subject to over many years.

“The aspiration is to replace the existing house with a high-quality dwelling in design and performance and to improve the landscaping that has long been neglected.

“It will be sympathetic in design to its surrounding buildings and area. The proposals will be mindful of the site’s location overlooking Towan and Tolcarne beaches from its elevated position and the recent and ongoing regeneration of this part of the Newquay.

“Possibly the original house would have been a pleasantly proportioned coastal home but over the years it appears to have had so many adaptions and extensions there is little left of the original character

“It would appear that prior to 2005 Skerryvore had been used as a hotel/guest house as well as a dwelling) and since then had been split into at least two residential apartments.

“The original existing building is understood to have been constructed from single concrete block walls, intermediate timber floors and trussed roofs with a clay/concrete tile finish.

“The current condition of Skerryvore is poor. Since 2023 the condition of the building has rapidly deteriorated due to storm damage and further vandalism. The property has been vacant of residents for a period of time.

“The roof has had to be removed due to health and safety concerns over its stability.

“Also, the interior of the building has had to be stripped due to the extensive vandalism that it has been subjected to over the last couple of years.

“In formulating the proposal for a replacement dwelling, the applicant and us as responsible designers are mindful of the site’s location and existing building condition.

“The intention will be to create a pleasing aesthetic that integrates within the landscape and surrounding area when viewed from the outside.

“Care will be taken for the future proposal’s architecture to make a positive contribution to the landscape. The poor condition of the existing building gives an opportunity for the applicant to construct a high-quality energy efficient dwelling on the site for future generations to enjoy.

“It is our conclusion that through site considerations that a future design will follow planning policy and design guidance in a positive fashion concluding in a high-quality contextual design.”