Individual Decision Day - 8 July 2026

At the latest Cabinet meeting, Cornwall Council considered several key decisions regarding housing, land disposals, and coastal resilience. The meeting began by approving the minutes from previous sessions on 22 April 2026 and 27 May 2026. A single urgent decision was noted since the last Cabinet meeting: the Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Schools had recommissioned the Family Domestic Abuse Advisor Service on 29 June 2026 to ensure continued support for those affected by domestic abuse. No declarations of interest were made.

A notable debate arose over a proposal to dispose of 11.5 acres of agricultural land at Glebe Farm, St Endellion, to Tre Haven Community Land Trust for development of 25 affordable homes and commercial uses. A public question from Mr Graham Smith of St Mabyn criticized the lack of public tender and scrutiny, questioning value for taxpayers. In response, the Asset Management Lead explained that the scheme was a bottom-up, locally-led initiative developed with the parish and community group, which would pay market value for the land. The Portfolio Holder for Economic Regeneration and Investment stated that taking the land to market would be inequitable given the partnership and local support. The decision was processed through an Individual Decision Day for transparency.

Another discussion focused on a Planning Promotion Agreement for approximately 11 acres of Council-owned land at Halgavor, Bodmin, allocated for housing and a transportation link in the Local Plan. The Council lacked the position to develop the land without adjoining landowners, so a Promoter with contractual rights on adjacent land proposed a partnership. The agreement would allow the Promoter to lead on securing planning consent and a developer. Concerns were raised about the late publication of the report, with one Member arguing the matter should be deferred for proper scrutiny. The Portfolio Holder acknowledged the timing issue but proceeded, citing legal advice that the required notice had been given. Authority was delegated to finalize terms in line with the Council’s Code of Practice.

Two Planning Policy Guidance Notes were endorsed to boost housing delivery and address viability challenges. The first, "Homes for All," promotes diverse tenures including social and affordable homes, discounted market sale homes, and specialist accommodation. The second guidance note proposes time-limited amendments to Local Plan policies in areas where viability is challenging, such as deferring Community Infrastructure Levy payments until the final unit completion to improve cash flow. Members expressed support but raised concerns about potential delays in construction, and the need for monitoring was noted. The Portfolio Holder emphasized the need to meet local housing needs, with over 20,000 households on the housing register.

The Council also adopted the Mounts Bay Coastal Resilience Strategy, developed with the Environment Agency to manage flood and coastal erosion risks through to 2100. The strategy includes maintaining harbour defences, introducing low-crested structures, and using sandscaping to work with natural processes. A public consultation showed strong support, with 76% of respondents backing the plan. The decision formalizes the Council’s approach to protect transport links, heritage assets, and properties from rising sea levels and extreme weather. No public questions were received on this item.