UK: Plans to convert part of the Pentire gateway scheme in Newquay, Cornwall, into an aparthotel has been withdrawn after being opposed by Newquay Town Council’s planning committee.
The proposal included a change of use for 50 of the existing apartments located across the ground, first, second, and third floors of the development, with no structural alterations proposed.
The plan was submitted to Cornwall Council, which, on behalf of the applicant, stated that the rest of the building, including retail units on the lower levels and communal facilities, would have been unaffected by the planning application.
However, Newquay Town Council rejected the plan, citing the inability assess the viability or potential impact of the scheme due to a lack of information.
It stated: “It was felt that there was insufficient detail explaining how the development would function as an aparthotel. The application lacks clarity on key operational aspects such as the provision of amenities, management structure, staffing, reception facilities, communal areas, and dining provisions.”
“Councillors would also request further clarification regarding the Community Infrastructure Levy implications of this change and whether these have already been considered or addressed within the current submission. Based on the lack of detail and outstanding questions, councillors agreed they had no choice but to object to the application in its current form.”
Following the application, the Council also received several comments from residents opposing to more holiday lets in the town.
One wrote: “It will add further pressure to Newquay’s already severe housing shortage, negatively impact the character and stability of the local community and appear to go against key aims of the Newquay Neighbourhood Plan.”
Another resident said: “I am deeply concerned by the impact of yet another holiday development in a town already under significant housing pressure. Newquay is already saturated with holiday apartments, Airbnbs, and second homes. Given the urgent need for long-term, affordable housing, it is both short-sighted and socially damaging to prioritise another aparthotel in this space.”
Back in May, the company building the development Pentire gateway, Stephens + Stephens, was reported to have gone into administration.
It is now in the process of negotiating a way forward for the scheme, which offers 74 apartments, including nine penthouses, and 65 one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments.
Highlights:
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Plans to convert 50 apartments at One Pentire in Newquay, Cornwall, into an aparthotel have been withdrawn.
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Newquay Town Council has opposed the application due to a lack of sufficient information.
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Residents have submitted objections citing pressure on housing and community stability.
