Councillors have stood by a decision to oppose plans to create new houses on the site of a former quarry overlooking Swanpool in Falmouth, even though the number of proposed properties has been halved.

In April, H and H Developments' scheme was for six homes, but following objections raised by councillors, the company has now reduced the number to three. A representative for the developers said: "My client has responded to the points raised by Falmouth Town Council and revised the scheme.

"It now simply relates to three dwellings located at the lower end of the site to reduce any impact upon the occupants residing in Madeira Road."

Despite this, though, the plans, which went before the town council's planning committee last week, are still facing considerable opposition.

Councillor Candy Atherton said that every open space across the town has been evaluated as part of the neighbourhood plan process and that if that plan was in place now, the site in question would be protected from development.

The committee has recommended the new application be refused by Cornwall Council because the loss of green space would be visually detrimental to the character of the area and the proposed development would create a risk of contamination to Swanpool Lake and the SSSI, have a harmful impact on the area and the wildlife habitats and exacerbate surface run-off problems.

Councillors also claim the proposed development would be contrary to the emerging Falmouth Neighbouring Plan policies, and are concerned over the lack of sewerage provision, highway safety on to Swanpool Road and the potential loss or harm of trees protected by a TPO.

Residents are also opposing the plans. Brian Adams, of Penwerris Terrace, says: "There are very few places as special as Swanpool and its neighbouring beach. The wildlife is wonderful and there seems to be a very good balance between the nature reserve and the constantly changing groups of children , parents and others learning and watching the birds.

"Most of the houses on the far side of the pool are hidden well by trees. I feel that it would be inevitable that the proposed new buildings would overpower that balance to the detriment of the whole area. If this development is allowed there would be subsequent urban spread along this area of natural beauty."

Valerie And Alan Spargo, of Madeira Walk, said: "Swanpool Road is congested now, and access to and from the site would only add to this serious issue. It is a busy spot which is used by families with young children going along the footpath and road, to and from the beach, cafe, crazy golf and the car park.

"As well as pedestrians, vehicles must jockey for position on the road, driving around parked cars. It is very busy and the summer months are even worse."

Jill Belletti adds: "There is far too much building being allowed around Falmouth and all the beautiful scenery and green spaces is gradually being eroded. The only people who can afford these homes are 'out of county' people and in the majority of situations the homes are left empty for six months of the year and the occupants are therefore not contributing to the area other than for their own selfish needs.

"Swanpool is a conservation area and to allow one application would then open up the floodgates for other developers to follow suit, therefore destroying the habitat of the birds and other animals that are increasingly being made homeless."