Central Sub-Area Planning Committee - 12 January 2026

The meeting began with the Democratic Officer reporting on the emergency evacuation and domestic procedures, and it was confirmed that no declarations of interest were declared. The Senior Lawyer clarified that Councillors Blackman and Desmonde had no disclosable interests in respect of Application No. PA25/02531. A motion moved by Councillor Webb and seconded by Councillor Kenny was carried, resolving that the minutes of the Central Sub‑Area Planning Committee meeting held on 17 November 2025 were correctly recorded and should be signed by the Chairman.

The Development Management Group Leader (MS) presented Application No. PA25/02531, showing plans and photographs and summarising the key issues. The leader referred to a report that updated the Committee on actions taken since the item’s deferral on 17 November 2025 and highlighted the committee update previously circulated. The report recommended that delegated authority be granted to the Service Director for Planning & Housing (Chief Planning Officer) to approve the application, subject to conditions set out in the report and the completion of a Section 106 Agreement securing the off‑site Biodiversity Net Gain payment. The recommendation also allowed the delegated authority to refuse the application if the Section 106 Agreement was not completed within three months of the Committee’s decision, or within an agreed extension, and to add an additional condition as outlined in the committee update.

Representatives were given the opportunity to speak. Mr Jon Pearson, the objector, and Councillor Watson of St Agnes Parish Council both addressed the Committee and expressed opposition to the proposal. Mr Justin Dodge, speaking on behalf of the applicant, presented arguments in support of the development. Councillor Mitchell was unable to attend; the Democratic Officer read a prepared statement on his behalf. In the statement, Councillor Mitchell reiterated his earlier objections, citing potential negative impacts on the High Street, loss of business for local Cornish retailers, traffic and safety concerns, insufficient amenity provision, and non‑compliance with Policies 14 and 15 of the Local Neighbourhood Development Plan. He also highlighted the need for a Road Safety Auditor and the disproportionate effect on residents of the affordable units.

The Committee noted the information relating to appeals and recorded the representations made. The motion to approve the previous Sub‑Area Planning Committee minutes was adopted. No final decision on Application No. PA25/02531 was taken at this meeting; the Committee will consider the recommendations and conditions, including the Section 106 Agreement, before any approval or refusal is issued.