Cheaper homes idea for exposed site near Truro

THE "most exposed site in Truro", with views stretching for miles could be developed into affordable housing.

Cornwall Council has written to residents about the possibility of building homes on part of Carvinack Farm at Shortlanesend and asked for their opinions.

The planning brief says the land is a potentially suitable option for providing a small affordable housing development, including rented, shared ownership and possibly owned homes.

It says there are 111 households on the Cornwall Homechoice Register, with 40 identifying Shortlanesend as a preferred area.

But Kenwyn Parish councillor Kingsley Wright says the plans focus on the wrong side of the main road which runs through the village.

"It's the most exposed site in the whole of Truro, on the crown of the land right at the very top of Shortlanesend.

"It's the best farmland in the area. It's a three-hectare field that they were using for things like the local horse show.

"There are views to Carland Cross, St Agnes Beacon and Carn Brea."

Access to the homes would be from Idless Lane or Ashley Road.

He was surprised when the documents arrived, having heard nothing before about the scheme.

Cllr Wright said: "We're told now by Cornwall Council that we should all be working together for the benefit of the community, but now this has appeared out of the blue."

A letter sent out to residents says Cornwall Council is hoping to secure funding to build 500 homes across 20 sites in the county to meet housing needs. Locals have been asked to contact Tim Marsh with their comments at tmarsh@cornwall.gov.uk or write a letter to Cornwall Council, Circuit House, Pydar Street, Truro, Cornwall, TR1 1EB.