Focus
The Duchy of Cornwall publishes a sustainability strategy for a green development in Newquay, Cornwall
14th February 2007
A site to the east of Newquay in Cornwall, known as the Newquay Growth Area, has been earmarked for development by the local authority as a way of meeting the future local business, housing, educational and health needs in a sustainable way.
The Duchy of Cornwall is the majority landowner of the site and is working with the local authority, to create a new urban extension of Newquay that will champion sustainable development environmentally, socially and economically.
Newquay itself is one of the country’s most popular seaside holiday resorts and attracts some 750,000 visitors a year. During the summer months the population of the town increases from 20,000 to 100,000.
The sustainability strategy
The Newquay Growth Area’s sustainability strategy will focus on controlling and minimising carbon emissions by generating renewable energy on site and maximising the energy efficiency of buildings.
The development will include a range of measures designed to reduce its environmental impact and encourage sustainable lifestyles for those who live there.
This will include renewable energy and energy efficient buildings, rainwater harvesting, improved insulation, use of locally sourced and some reclaimed materials, local amenities within walking distance, and greater opportunities for people to work closer to home. Click here to read the press release for the full list of proposals.
The development will emulate the successful principles of the Duchy's development at Poundbury and will include a mix of shops, offices and community facilities, including a new primary school, alongside integrated private and affordable housing.
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.
It is expected that approximately 850 homes would be built on Duchy land, with a similar number of jobs created.
The strategy been submitted to Restormel Borough Council, to be considered as part of the forthcoming Independent Examination of the Council’s new Local Plan, following an extensive community consultation process. A planning application will follow the Independent Examination.
Warmly welcomed
The Duchy of Cornwall’s sustainability strategy for the Newquay Growth Area has been warmly welcomed in Cornwall.
Tim German, Director of the Cornwall Sustainable Energy Partnership, which has been involved in the development of the Duchy’s plans, said: “The Duchy of Cornwall is demonstrating high level leadership in the content of this strategy.
“The proposals will ensure that a combination of high levels of energy efficiency and renewable energy are integrated within the buildings and infrastructure of the new development.
“This type of innovative strategy is vital for Cornwall’s long term future and is another step towards achieving a green peninsula”.
North Cornwall MP Dan Rogerson, whose constituency includes Newquay, said: “This is an excellent initiative, which will bring real benefits to Newquay.
“The biggest problem we’re facing locally is housing. The biggest problem we're facing globally is climate change. With this project the Duchy is seeking to address both.
Friends of the Earth’s director, Tony Juniper, said:
“This inspirational proposal shows that sustainability really can be at the heart of a large development. Although there is growing awareness of the need for action, there is still a perceived shortage of solutions that people can relate to.
“The plans put forward by the Duchy could make an important difference, not only in providing local solutions in Cornwall, but in demonstrating what is possible right across the country. Friends of the Earth is pleased to offer its support in making this scheme a real beacon of hope.”
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.”
The Sustainability Strategy, and supporting documents, will be followed by a planning application once the Independent Examination has been completed.
Click here to visit the Duchy of Cornwall website and read the supporting documents.
Click here to read more about the Eco Homes at Poundbury.