Cornwall councillors are being urged to approve plans to build three new homes on the site of a former quarry at Swanpool in Falmouth, despite opposition from town councillors and local residents.

H and H Developments had originally applied for six houses on the site near the beach, but amended their plans by cutting the number in half.

Despite this, the town council maintained its opposition, but case officer Laura Potts is recommending that Cornwall Council’s planning committee approves the scheme when it goes before members on Monday.

She says: “In the application’s favour is its location within the urban area of Falmouth and the associated high level of accessibility this would provide future residents to local services and amenities.

“The proposal itself will also make a positive contribution towards increasing the delivery rate of housing in the Falmouth and Penryn Community Network Area and provides direct assistance to helping Cornwall Council demonstrate a five year land supply.”

She adds: “The incoming residents of the proposed homes would also provide some support for local services and facilities and, in doing so, strengthen the local economy. The social, environmental and economic benefits of this weigh in favour of the application.

“Also, in its favour, the site has had previous uses including a quarry and a waste transfer area. Whilst it is adjacent to a large wooded area which stretches the

length of Swanpool, it clearly has a different character to this area.”

While Ms Potts accepts the development has potential to impact on the Swanpool site of special scientific interest and on the natural landscape, she claims these concerns can be addressed by conditions.

Falmouth councillor Bob O’Shea is to attend the meeting on Monday and speak against the proposals on behalf of the town council.