Latest Press Release
The Duchy of Cornwall publishes strategy for green development at Newquay
14th February 2007
A comprehensive sustainability strategy for the Newquay Growth Area, to the east of the existing town, has been submitted to Restormel Borough Council, to be considered as part of the forthcoming Independent Examination of the Council’s new Local Plan.
This follows an extensive community consultation process. A planning application will follow the Independent Examination.
The scheme aims to control and minimise carbon emissions by generating renewable energy on site and maximising the energy efficiency of buildings. It is hoped that the development, with a significant proportion of homes classed as affordable, will also help to diversify and strengthen the local economy.
The development will include a mix of shops, offices and community facilities, including a new primary school, alongside integrated private and affordable housing. It is expected that approximately 850 homes would be built on Duchy land, with a similar number of jobs created.
Tim Gray, Development Director for the Duchy of Cornwall said:
“Our aim is to build a development of enduring quality which will stand the test of time – enhancing the life and economy of Newquay now and in the future. We also want to minimise the impact the new development has on the environment – by controlling and minimising carbon emissions and by building a mix of shops, homes and amenities within walking distance that reduces reliance on the car in every day life.”
Cllr Annette Egerton, Regeneration Portfolio Holder at Restormel Borough Council and a member of Cornwall County Council, said: “We’ve worked closely with the Duchy and the local community on the Growth Area proposals and believe that the sustainability strategy is one against which other developments in Cornwall will come to be judged.
"It sets new standards for sustainable development and I will be urging my fellow members to adopt these proposals when we consider them as planning guidance later this year.”
Key features of the strategy include:
Renewable energy – options for consideration include:
- a community-owned wind turbine which would be kept under review and removed when developing technology offers a better solution. In the meantime the Duchy would explore whether its impact on the landscape could be reduced. The Duchy would not seek to proceed without community support.
- Biofuel community heating can be used where there is sufficient density of buildings. It relies on communal boilers burning renewable fuels such as woodchip or wood pellets.
- Solar hot water panels or Photovoltaic solar electricity could be installed on south facing roofs.
- Ground source heat pumps may be suitable for larger houses.
- Houses would be connected to a green electricity tariff which provides electricity from other renewable sources.
- Energy efficient buildings
- Street and building planning to maximise natural light and ventilation
- Improved insulation, including the innovative use of natural materials such as sheep’s wool
- Low energy lighting
- Installation of energy efficient and water efficient appliances
- Rainwater harvesting and possibly grey (used) water recycling for uses such as WC flushing or watering the garden to reduce water consumption.
- Shops, services and local amenities within walking distance and the provision of cycle routes.
- Provision of live/work units and integration of businesses offering employment and enabling more people to work closer to home.
- Use of locally sourced and some reclaimed materials where possible during the construction process.
The Sustainability Strategy, and supporting documents, will be followed by a planning application once the Independent Examination has been completed.
The documents are available on the Duchy of Cornwall website. Click here to visit the Duchy of Cornwall website.