MY LATEST REPORT ON MY COUNCIL DUTIES

Time period: 1st October – 30th November 2024

1.0 Council and other meetings

Over the last couple of months, physical meetings at Cornwall Council were an extraordinary Full Council, Full Council, Cabinet, Constitution and Governance Committee, Corporate Finance and Performance Overview and Scrutiny Committee, Economic Growth and Development Overview and Scrutiny Committee, the China Clay Area and Luxulyan Community Area Partnership and a meeting about projects within the China Clay Area. Other physical meetings have including St Dennis Parish Council, St Enoder Parish Council (4), the Cornish Lithium Community Liaison Group, Fraddon Village Hall and Indian Queens Band.

I have also attended a range of online Cornwall Council meetings via Teams video-conferencing. These have included the Cornish National Minority Working Group (and an associated preparatory session), get-togethers for councillors from the China Clay Area (2), a meeting about Local Lettings Plans for social housing in St Dennis and St Enoder parishes, an interview about the Community Levelling Up funding allocated to the Clay Area over the last 12 months and a briefing on waste.

In addition, I have had informal meetings with a wide range of groups and individuals.

2.0 Full Council meeting

There were two Full Council meetings in November. The first one (7th November) was an “extraordinary” one with a single item on the agenda – a vote of no-confidence in the council leader Linda Taylor. It was all so unedifying and completely pointless. The opposition councillors who tabled the motion had little chance of success, as the Conservative administration had enough councillors to defeat the proposition. I do wonder to what extent the decision of the Conservatives, four years ago, to table a no-confidence vote in the previous leader of Cornwall Council led directly to this more recent vote.

The second one (26th November) included a motion relating to inheritance tax on farms. It was carried overwhelmingly. There were also numerous sensible and well-regarded contributions, but it deteriorated at times with some councillors using the opportunity to “play politics,” and there were certainly plenty of insults flying around the chamber.

3.0 Homechoice

The revised approach to the Homechoice system (for the allocation of publicly-owned rental properties) is due to commence early in 2025. It is my understanding that some additional tweaks to the policy have been made since they were agreed by Cabinet. I will report in more detail once I have seen the finalised policy document.

More importantly for St Dennis and St Enoder, I viewed a final draft of local lettings plans, which will prioritise lettings for local people in the two parishes. These are to be signed off at a meeting in late January.

4.0 UK Parliament Week

On 21st November, I helped with an event for UK Parliament Week in the council offices. Some thirty pupils from eight primary schools from the Aspire Academy took part. More children were expected but a number of schools did not make it because of the snow on that day. Other politicians involved included MPs Noah Law and Jayne Kirkham, and councillors James Mustoe and Thalia Marrington. It was extremely positive and enjoyable.

5.0 Event with Noah Law MP

The member of parliament for St Austell and Newquay recently held three meetings about his commitment to support jobs and prosperity in his constituency. I was pleased to attend the meeting in Clay Country, which was held at ClayTAWC.

6.0 Remembrance Sunday

I was pleased to attend the annual Remembrance Sunday event at St Enoder Churchtown on 10th November and to read out the names of the fallen. I was also pleased to supply information about two servicemen (Eldred Grose and Denis Kelly, who were lost in the Second World War) and whose lives were featured in the church service.

The service at St Dennis was held at the same time as the St Enoder event and I was therefore unable to attend. I remain grateful to the Chairman of St Dennis Parish Council, Julia Clarke, who ensured that a wreath was laid on my behalf at the St Dennis commemoration.

7.0 “Report it”

Over the last month, I have reported a number of local issues of concern to residents. If you spot any problems, you can also report it through Cornwall Council’s website at: https://www.cornwall.gov.uk/report-something/

ST DENNIS PARISH

8.0 Planning matters

8.1 Cornish Lithium

In my last report, I wrote about how the UK Government had classed the Cornish Lithium project at Trelavour as a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project (NSIP), which means that the key planning decisions relating to the site will be made by the Secretary of State, rather than Cornwall Council.

Linked to this, I attended the most recent meeting of the Cornish Lithium Community Liaison Group and I requested that Cornish Lithium do more to publicise the significance of NSIP status, particularly what it means for the planning process and the ability of local people to make representations.

The application to central government for the NSIP also included supporting information and some maps, which can be viewed on the website for the Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government. At the Liaison Group meeting, I also asked Cornish Lithium to do more to explain their emerging plans for the scheme.

The company has stated that the documentation and maps are not the final plans, their feasibility study is ongoing and they are still looking at options. I have been told that this assessment will be completed in 2025 and they will then publish the full details of their commercial project.

But as their plans are now in the public domain, I can confirm that the document includes reference to the need to lay a power line from the proposed processing zone, in their “Parkandillick Lease Area,” to the Indian Queens Power Station. Residents will be aware that I have been investigating the possibility of a multi-use trail along the disused railway line from St Dennis to the Goss Moor. Cornish Lithium are specifically looking at this route for their cabling and have confirmed that they are also considering the creation of a “mixed use path (for walkers and cyclists) as a benefit of the development.”

I also attended the launch event at the Trelavour site on 18th October.

It is my intention to do my best to ensure that the views of the local community are well represented in the period going forward.

8.2 Proposed solar farm near Trerice

I attended the information day event for their solar farm proposal at Trerice on 23rd October, between 3pm and 7pm, at the Pitch Sports Bar Function Room, and I have since been informed that the name of the proposal has been changed from Trevicoe to Trerice.

[Since this report was finished, the planning application was formally registered with Cornwall Council].

8.3 St Dennis Neighbourhood Plan

The “direction of travel” consultation document for the Plan will be published and distributed around the local area in the New Year.

9.0 Traffic matters

I continue to make a wide range of representations to Cornwall Council on a number of highway matters and I continue to raise my extreme frustration that so many road markings desperately need repainting, and I am keeping the pressure up as best I can. I have recently been promised that the repainting of the lines in St Dennis will be prioritised in 2025.

Other topics covered included some recent episodes of flooding, and my ongoing complaints about the poor quality of numerous road surfaces. I am pleased to be able to report that Carne Hill and Trelavour Road have now been placed on Cornwall Council’s “provisional programme” for resurfacing in the next financial year.

The insertion of an additional “pinch-point” at the southern end of Hendra Road has been included within Cormac’s timetable for works and will likely be done early in the New Year.

On 14th November, I had another site visit with the local Highway Manager (Cormac). This was to discuss the siting of “Welcome to St Dennis Parish” signs, as well as potential locations for name-signs for local hamlets. I hope to have a worked-up project to take forward with the Parish Council in early 2025.

I am also continuing to liaise with Cornwall Council about a report into all the traffic problems in and around St Dennis.

10.0 Hall Road play area

Last month, I was pleased to report that Cornwall Council is working up a project to look at the “devolution” of small play areas and green spaces to Parish Councils throughout Clay Country.

I brought this up with St Dennis Parish Council and I am delighted that they have taken the decision to seek ownership of the play area at Hall Road. This will allow us to replace the present equipment with something fit for the present day. It will hopefully be paid for through the incinerator fund.

[There was a positive site meeting with Cornwall Council about this on 13th December].

11.0 The incinerator

The incineration of waste has been in the news again recently. Analysis from the BBC has shown that incineration emits more CO2 per unit of energy produced than any other form of energy creation, while there are also reports that central government may bring in an “emissions trading scheme” that will add significant costs to the running of the incinerator.

I was invited onto Radio Cornwall and asked about the unitary authority’s approach to waste management. I spoke about the improvements in recycling and how the amount of domestic waste going to the plant is likely to fall while acknowledging that, because of the Council’s dependence upon the burning of rubbish, the void in incineration capacity would be filled with more commercial waste.

I could not help but point out that Cornwall Council would have a much better and much more cost-effective approach to dealing with waste if they has listened to objectors to the incineration plant, some 15 years ago.

ST ENODER PARISH

12.0 Thomas Playing Field

The refurbishment of the play equipment has been ongoing. The time it has taken has been extremely frustrating, but I was relieved when the park was reopened on 5th December.

13.0 Planning matters

Listed below are some updates on planning applications in St Enoder Parish.

13.1 Burthy Solar farm [PA23/01893]

The final draft of the legal agreement relating to the community fund associated with the recently-consented Burthy Solar Farm near Fraddon. It has been signed by the Parish Clerk. The Parish Council will be paid £17,000 per annum for the next 40 years to invest in the community infrastructure of our Parish.

13.2 Proposed solar farm at Trelion [PA24/05312]

I have previously reported that a planning application for a 49.9mw solar farm has been submitted in St Stephen Parish. There was uncertainty about the route of the cabling that, if the application was successful, would link the development to the Indian Queens Power Station. One option was along public roads, extending from Scarcewater past Seaview Terrace, through Fraddon and Indian Queens, and then past Gaverigan.

Further information has been submitted which now shows their preferred route to be no longer be along roads, except in the Gaverigan area, but through adjacent fields or clay industry land. I will be studying the route in some detail soon, as I think it might impact on footpaths maintained by St Enoder Parish Council.

13.3 Single dwelling, Higher Fraddon (PA23/03650)

In my last report, I forget to include information into the appeal for a single dwelling at Higher Fraddon. It had been refused by Cornwall Council on 16th June 2023. The reason for refusal was:

The application site is located outside of the defined settlement and the development represents an undesirable extension and intrusion of built form into the countryside to the detriment of landscape character. In the absence of any other special circumstances to justify the dwellings in this context, the proposal does not represent sustainable development and would be contrary to the guidance contained in Paragraph 80 of the National Planning Policy Framework 2021, Policies 3, 7 and 21(c) of the Cornwall Local Plan Strategic Policies 2010 to 2030, and Policies 2 and 3 of the St Enoder Parish Neighbourhood Plan 2018 - 2030.

The applicant appealed the decision to the Planning Inspectorate, which upheld the decision of the unitary authority and dismissed the appeal.

13.4 Unit 2, Indian Queens Industrial Estate (PA24/07158)

Further to my report from last month about the retrospective application for a door opening into the rear of the industrial unit and related issues (ie. problems with landscaping and changes to the consented scheme), I can report that I had a meeting with planning officers on 19th November to discuss the scheme. They are going back to the applicant to raise concerns.

14.0 Traffic matters

14.1 20mph speed limit

In October, the new sign at the Penhale end of Fraddon was modified to say Fraddon rather than Penhale.

14.2 Seaview Terrace

The installation of the new 40mph speed limit at Seaview Terrace has also been completed.

14.3 Meeting with Cormac

As noted in the St Dennis section of this report, I continue to make a wide range of representations to Cornwall Council on a number of highway matters. Representations have included recent episodes of flooding, and my ongoing complaints about the poor quality of numerous road surfaces. In terms of the issues with the road drains at Summercourt crossroads, Cormac have acknowledged that there is some sort of blockage in the network and further investigative works have been carried out.

Residents may have noticed that a number of poles to host the Parish Council’s mobile speed visors have been erected around the Parish.

15.0 Small play areas and green spaces

Last month, I was pleased to report that Cornwall Council is working up a project to look at the “devolution” of small play areas and green spaces to Parish Council throughout Clay Country.

[There was a follow-up site meeting with Cornwall Council about this on 13th December and the areas under discussion include a number of small play areas / green spaces; Clodan Mews, Hanover Park, Kingsley Court, Lindsay Fields, Penhale Gardens and St James View].

SUPPORT FOR LOCAL FAMILIES

16.0 Advice

In addition, I have assisted numerous households and individuals with guidance and advice on a range of topics.

MY LATEST REPORT ON MY COUNCIL DUTIES

Time period: 1st August – 22nd September 2024

1.0 Council and other meetings

There have been fewer meetings at Cornwall Council over the last few weeks as it has been the main two summer months, but physical meetings have included Corporate Finance and Performance Overview and Scrutiny Committee, Constitution and Governance Committee, a meeting of the Chairs and Vice-chairs of Community Area Partnerships and a briefing on the new Government’s likely approach to devolution. I have attended meetings of Dennis Parish Council (2) and St Enoder Parish Council (2).

I have also attended a range of online Cornwall Council meetings via Teams video-conferencing. These have included a discussion on the production of a White Paper on devolution, a preparatory meeting for Full Council (due on 24th September), Group Leaders and the monthly get-together for councillors in the China Clay Area and Luxulyan CAP.

In addition, I have had informal meetings with a wide range of groups and individuals.

2.0 Devolution discussions

I continue to be frustrated by progress towards Cornwall Council’s White Paper, which will set out a request for more powers for Cornwall. The present draft is not as ambitious as I would like, but debate is ongoing. I was however pleased to co-sign a joint letter to the Deputy Prime Minister from all six MPs and representatives of all political groups on the unitary authority, which seeks “devolution settlement enshrined in law that reflects the status Cornwall shares with Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland in all areas of economic, social, political and cultural life …”

3.0 Meeting with Noah Law

I was also pleased to have a meeting with the new MP for St Austell and Newquay to discuss a wide range of issues of concern to Cornwall and, in particular, Clay Country.

4.0 Roll-out of 20 mph limits

I have received a number of representations about the new 20mph limits, which has included issues with signage – see St Enoder section for further comment.

5.0 Local Lettings Plans

Further to my recent reports, I have received a draft of the agreement that will ensure that 75% of rentals from the older social housing in St Dennis and St Enoder parishes will go to households from the host parish.

There are a couple of points which need clarification and a further meeting has been timetabled for 23rd September.

6.0 “Report it”

Over the last month, I have reported a high number of local issues of concern to residents. This has included fly-tipping, potholes and overgrown verges. If you spot a similar problem, you can also report it through Cornwall Council’s website at: https://www.cornwall.gov.uk/report-something/

ST DENNIS PARISH

7.0 ClayTAWC

I would also like to start the St Dennis section of this report with some very positive news.

As the chairman of the Board at ClayTAWC, I am delighted that our purchase of the Old School Building went through on 30th August, and that more than 200 people attended our double celebration on the following day. This marked both 25 years of service to the local community as well as becoming owners of our premises.

I am so pleased that we have been able to buy the building and safeguard it as a community hub, which will allow us to carry on all the fantastic work we have been doing over the last quarter-of-a-century. We are especially grateful to the previous owners, the Church Charity of John Arundell, for giving us this opportunity to make the purchase and the funders for their really positive support.

The funding was £96,560 from Shared Prosperity Funding (SPF) and £73,899 from the St Dennis and Nanpean Community Trust (incinerator fund), which also covered improvements to the kitchen and some of the flooring.

Thank you to our team (Kerry Merrifield, Chloe Prangley and Tracey Hutton) for organising the celebratory event, my fellow board members (Sharron Kelsey and Simon Margetts), and all the volunteers who helped out. We were particularly delighted that the St Dennis Branch of Cancer Research raised £627 on the day.

8.0 Planning matters

8.1 Cornish Lithium

The UK Government has just classed the Cornish Lithium project at Trelavour as a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project (NSIP). NSIPs are dealt with under the Planning Act 2008, and this means that the planning application(s) will not therefore go to Cornwall Council. The Planning Inspectorate (PINS) will write a report with recommendations to the Secretary of State who will then make a decision on whether or not to grant consent. Cornwall Council will be a statutory consultee.

The planning situation at Trelavour is complex and I acknowledge that there are some existing mineral permissions in the area, which will already allow Cornish Lithium to do a significant amount of development. But I am more than a little taken aback by this recent news. It has always been my view that planning decisions for Cornwall should be taken in Cornwall, and I am disappointed that this will not be the case at Trelavour.

I have spoken to senior planners on Cornwall Council to get a greater understanding of what this announcement means, and I have received assurances that the process will still be significant and there will be multiple opportunities for local people to make comment on what is proposed. This will include an inquiry or public examination that looks in detail at the proposal(s).

In addition, I have already met with representatives of Cornish Lithium and I have made it clear to them that I will work hard to ensure that the views of the local community are well represented and properly fed into the planning process.

8.2 Proposed solar farm near Trerice

More than three years ago, a firm called Statkraft did some pre-application consultation work on a solar farm proposal in the Trerice area of St Dennis Parish. I was recently contacted by a representative of the company, who has informed me that they are looking to push ahead with the scheme. I understand that they will soon commencing further “community engagement” in advance of a planning application in the near future.

8.3 St Dennis Neighbourhood Plan

As previously reported, a Parish Council working group and I are working on the “direction of travel” document for the Plan, which will then form the basis of the next consultation. The text for the document is complete and staff at Cornwall Council are producing the relevant maps for the publication.

9.0 Traffic matters

Also, as previously reported, I am working on a detailed representation to Cornwall Council about the need for them to do study into traffic problems in and around St Dennis. I will update more on this in my next report, along with further feedback on other representations I am making about road safety issues.

10.0 Signs

I am continuing to work up a project for “Welcome to St Dennis Parish” signs at various points into the Parish, as well as village signs in places like Enniscaven and Gothers. I am trying to organise a meeting with Cormac to discuss this in further detail.

11.0 Newsletter

In August, I distributed a newsletter around St Dennis Parish. We didn’t quite get everywhere, but I think we got to around 99% of households.

ST ENODER PARISH

12.0 Indian Queens Under-5s and Fraddon Millennium Green

I would also like to start the St Enoder section of this report with some very positive news. I am very pleased that the refurbishment works on the Pre-School building in the Recreation Ground and the Fraddon Millennium Green have been completed.

The works at the Pre-School Building included new windows and doors, new cladding and guttering on the exterior, new steps by the fire escape, a new floor surface, a new kitchen, a new heating system and improved internal walling. The works were funded with a grant of £70,000, which I secured from Community Infrastructure Levy monies, plus support from the Parish Council, the Cornwall Community Foundation and fundraising by the group itself.

At the Millennium Green, the remains of the old train and safety surfacing across the play area was removed. Volunteers gave the existing play equipment a fresh coat of paint. New safety surfacing was laid down across the whole site and a new “Tommy Tractor” and associated trailer slide was installed by local supplier Outdoor Play People. The works were funded with a grant of £42,000, which I secured from Community Infrastructure Levy monies, plus support from the Parish Council.

Further works in the coming weeks will include significant vegetation management.

13.0 Thomas Playing Field

The “new” play equipment in the Thomas Playing Field was installed in the winter of 2018/2019. There have been a number of problems. These have included the deterioration of the metal equipment, slumpage in areas of the ground surface, and safety surfacing that lost all its colour – coming off on the clothing of users of the park.

The Parish Clerk and parish councillors, including myself and Mark Kessell, have been making representations to the suppliers, who have agreed that the reparations are necessary. They have agreed to carry out a significant “re-fit” of the play area. These fresh works will include the replacement of many pieces of equipment, groundworks to deal with hollows in the play area, and the installation of a new layer of safety surfacing across the whole area.

It is anticipated that the works will commence on or around 30th September, but may take three-four weeks.

14.0 Planning matters

Listed below are some updates on planning applications in St Enoder Parish.

14.1 Storage units, Toldish (PA23/06705)

A number of local people objected this retrospective application for storage units to the NW of the converted engine house at Toldish. It has been refused by Cornwall Council for the following reason.

The site is within the open countryside and is outside of the principal employment areas identified within the St Enoder Parish Neighbourhood Plan 2018-2030. The proposal itself, by reason of continuing to site the storage containers on previously undeveloped land, would harm the distinctive rural character of the area. In the absence of overriding justification for this development in this rural area, the application is contrary to Employment Policy 4 and Landscape Policy 1 of the St Enoder Parish Neighbourhood Plan 2018- 2030; Policies 1, 2, 5, 12 and 23 of the Cornwall Local Plan Strategic Policies 2010-2030; and paragraph 180 of the National Planning Policy Framework 2023.

14.2 Storage units, Summercourt (PA24/04609)

Quite a number of local people also objected this retrospective application for storage units near Summercourt School. It has been refused by Cornwall Council. The three reasons for the refusal were as follows:

The proposal for the stationing of twenty shipping containers for commercial self-storage purposes, changing the use of the land from agricultural to use class B8, is not considered to be of a scale appropriate to its countryside location or have an overriding locational or business need. The proposal is therefore contrary to Employment Policy 4 of the St Enoder Neighbourhood Development Plan 2021, policies 1, 2, 5 and 27 of the Cornwall Local Plan Strategic Policies 2010-2030, Policies AG1, C1 7) and T1 of the Climate Emergency Development Plan Document 2023 and paragraphs 8 and 135 of the National Planning Policy Framework 2023.

The proposed development, by reasons of the sitting, scale and design of 20 shipping containers would undermine the sense of place and community identity, presenting itself as an over-dominant and stand out feature that appears detached from the undeveloped character. The introduction of a commercial self-storage facility in a predominantly rural and agricultural setting would therefore appear incongruous, detracting from the area's undeveloped rural character and verdant sense of place. The proposed development is therefore contrary with Employment Policy 4 and Landscape Policies 1 and 2 of the St Enoder Neighbourhood Development Plan 2021, Policies 2, 5 and 23 of the Cornwall Local Plan Strategic Policies 2010-2030, policy C1 7) of the Climate Emergency Development Plan Document 2023 and paragraph 135 of the National Planning Policy Framework 2023.

The proposed development, due to the close location of the proposed access relative to the neighbouring junctions, in addition to the increase of vehicular traffic would result in a level of harm to highway and pedestrian safety. Such concerns are heightened due to the adjacent School for which increased levels of activity would be expected around pick-up and drop off times. As such, the proposed development would result in an unacceptable impact to highway safety, thus failing to comply with Policy 27 of the Cornwall Local Plan 2016, Policy T1 of the Climate Emergency Development Plan Document 2023 and paragraph 115 of the NPPF.

14.3 Burthy Solar farm [PA23/01893]

Last week, the Parish Clerk and I have received a revised draft of the legal agreement relating to the community fund associated with the recently-consented Burthy Solar Farm near Fraddon. We are in the process of feeding back comments at the present time.

The applicants have submitted a fresh application (PA24/06394) for this solar farm, but it is principally to accommodate tweaks to the proposed internal track and the removal of a section of hedge.

14.4 Proposed solar farm at Tresithney

More than three years ago, a firm called Statkraft did some pre-application consultation work on a solar farm proposal on Tresithney Farm between St Columb Road and Whitecross. I was recently contacted by a representative of the company, who has informed me that they are no longer looking to proceed with the scheme.

14.5 Proposed solar farm at Trelion [PA24/05312]

A planning permission for a 49.9mw solar farm has been submitted in St Stephen Parish. The application does not include any information about the route of the cabling that, if the application was successful, would link the development to the Indian Queens Power Station. Previous paperwork had shown two options; one was through clayworks and the second was along public roads, extending from Scarcewater past Seaview Terrace, through Fraddon and Indian Queens, and then past Gaverigan. I have consistently raised concerns about the second option.

I have contacted the applicants and they have told me that they are working on a cabling route which does not go through residential areas in St Enoder Parish, and paperwork relating to their preferred route will soon be submitted to the unitary authority.

14.6 Unit 2, Indian Queens Industrial Estate

Last year, planning permission was secured for the extension of Unit 2 on the industrial estate. Previous applications for a new access onto Moorland Road had failed. I was therefore surprised when, in May, a new entrance had been cut through the hedge into the rear of the plot. The developers had secured a streetworks consent from the local authority, which was granted without any reference to me as the local member.

The developers have also inserted a door opening into the rear of the industrial unit, for which they needed planning permission. A retrospective planning application (PA24/07158) has just been submitted to retain the door opening, but I can confirm it does not include any road access.

15.0 Traffic matters

I continue to follow-up on a range of road safety and related matters. I will report more fully in my next report, but some key updates are as follows:

15.1 20mph speed limit

I have received a number of comments about the roll-out of the 20mph limits in my division. The comments have been varied and included the validity of the new limits and their enforceability.

But there has also been the “cock-up” with signs at the Penhale end of Fraddon being replaced with a new sign that said Penhale. I can confirm that I have been in contact with them and this sign will soon be changed to read Fraddon. “Welcome” signs at Fraddon and St Columb Road, that referenced the three villages of Fraddon, Indian Queens and St Columb Road, have also been removed. I will be fostering a debate at Parish Council about whether we would like to see new signage in place of what has been removed.

15.2 Seaview Terrace

It has been confirmed that the installation of the new 40mph speed limit and some related works at Seaview Terrace will be done in October. The timetable for these works have slipped back a number of times, but I am hopeful that it will be done this time.

15.3 Parking at industrial estate

In August I had a meeting with Johnny Hawkins at the Indian Queens Industrial Estate about the parking problems in the area. This is something I taking forward to the Council.

16.0 Fraddon Village Hall

In addition to my other duties, I am now also a representative of St Enoder Parish Council on the Fraddon Village Hall Committee. It is my hope to assist with process, financial, policy and other issues at the Hall.

SUPPORT FOR LOCAL FAMILIES

17.0 Advice

In addition, I have assisted numerous households and individuals with guidance and advice on a range of topics.

MY LATEST REPORT ON MY COUNCIL DUTIES

 

Time period: May, June and July 2024

1.0 Council and other meetings

Over the last three months, physical meetings at Cornwall Council have included Full Council (2), Cabinet, the Children and Families Overview and Scrutiny Committee, Corporate Finance and Performance Overview and Scrutiny Committee (2), Central Sub-Area Planning Committee, Constitution and Governance Committee, and the China Clay Area and Luxulyan Community Area Partnership.

Other physical meetings have included St Dennis Parish Council (3) and associated Neighbourhood Planning working group (3), St Enoder Parish Council (5), St Dennis and Nanpean Community Trust, ClayTAWC (3), Indian Queens Preaching Pit and Fraddon Village Hall.

I have also attended a range of online Cornwall Council meetings via Teams(2) video-conferencing. These have included a briefing in advance of the last Full Council meeting, Group Leaders meeting, the Cornish National Minority Working Group (and associated preparatory meeting), five meetings about a White Paper seeking greater devolution for Cornwall, three meetings about local lettings plans for St Dennis and St Enoder, and a meeting for councillors from the China Clay Area.

In addition, I have had informal meetings with a wide range of groups and individuals.

2.0 Meeting with CORMAC

I had a meeting with the local Highway Manager on 29th May about a range of highway-related matters across both St Dennis and St Enoder parishes. The detail of what was discussed is covered in the below sections relating to the two parishes.

3.0 Local Lettings Plans

Staff at Cornwall Council are continuing to discuss the content of local lettings plans for both St Dennis and St Enoder parishes. I held a meeting with a senior housing officer on 28th June.

I can confirm that the present drafts contain a commitment to ensure that all existing rental properties [with legal agreements or nomination agreements] continue to prioritise households with a connection to the host parish. I recently had it confirmed that Cornwall Council will agree to 75% of rental properties, without legal agreements, should also prioritise households from the host parish.

4.0 China Clay Area and Luxulyan Community Area Partnership

At the meeting of the above CAP on 24th June, I was pleased to be re-elected Chairman.

5.0 Full Council

Two motions were discussed and agreed at Full Council on 21st May. These covered concerns about proposed changes to Universal Credit and PIPs (Personal Independence Payments) and the need to treat mental illness on more of a par with physical illness; plus the need to end subsidies for holiday homes.

6.0 Devolution White Paper

The unitary authority has produced a “White Paper” setting out a call for greater devolution for Cornwall, which could be submitted to the new UK Government. The Group Leaders, including myself, were involved in the discussions around the document. But the White Paper is not what I hoped it would be – it does represent “proper devolution.” I have already appealed to the Cabinet to make additional changes to strengthen the document further.

The White Paper opens with a foreword, that states Cornwall is a “proud Celtic nation” and also notes the national minority status of the Cornish people, while calling for a “deeper devolution settlement” that reflects the status Cornwall shares with Wales, Scotland and Ireland.

But that narrative of parity with the other Celtic nations does not extend fully throughout it. It seems to me that, for much of the text, the authors fall into the trap of seeing devolution in the context of English local government.

There is now a period of consultation before the White Paper is finalised and I will be making further representatives

7.0 “Report it”

Over the last month, I have reported a high number of local issues of concern to residents. This has included fly-tipping, potholes and overgrown verges. If you spot a similar problem, you can also report it through Cornwall Council’s website at: https://www.cornwall.gov.uk/report-something/

ST DENNIS PARISH

8.0 St Dennis Neighbourhood Plan

As previously reported, a Parish Council working group and I are working on the “direction of travel” document for the Plan, which will then form the basis of the next consultation.

The text for the document is complete and the maps and the images will soon be inserted. The document is likely to be circulated around St Dennis Parish during September.

9.0 Signs

On 7th May, I presented a report to a meeting of St Dennis Parish Council about “Welcome to St Dennis Parish” signs at various points into the Parish, as well as village signs in places like Enniscaven and Gothers. I am pleased that councillors supported the principle of the proposal and I made further enquiries with Cormac about how to proceed at a meeting on 29th May.

10.0 Traffic matters

10.1 Mobile speed visor poles

I am pleased that the Parish Council is progressing with the purchase of mobile speed visors, which can be placed on poles at various locations around the village to encourage people to drive safely with speed limits.

10.2 Feasibility assessment on traffic concerns

At the Parish Council meeting on 7th May, parish councillors discussed a range of issues with traffic congestion, traffic speed, parking and related matters within the heart of the village. The possibility of a one-way system along some roads was suggested. I approached Cornwall Council and requested that a detailed feasibility or assessment be undertaken of the traffic problems in St Dennis.

The response has been less positive than I had hoped, because of budget pressures and the capacity of council staff. It has been agreed that I can produce a briefing document to make a stronger case for the works, which I plan to produce during July.

10.3 Meeting with local Highway Manager

At the meeting on 29th May, and via subsequent phone calls and emails, I raised concerns and / or discussed progress on a highway-related matters across St Dennis Parish.

Topics included:

· Poor quality of road surfaces, including Carne Hill, Hall Road including pavements, Gothers Road and Trelavour Road.

· Lineage in need of repainting. This includes the area near ClayTAWC, Hall Road junction by school, speed humps on Hall Road. etc, and bus stops in Robartes Road.

· Parking issues at the top of Trelavour Road.

· Data collection of speeding traffic in the Enniscaven area.

· Over-grown verges and weeds growing around the village.

· New welcome signs into St Dennis Parish and name-plates for hamlets such as Enniscaven, Gothers and Trerice Terrace.

10.4 Pavement works

I am pleased that, following representations, CORMAC will soon be commencing a significant programme of works to improve the pavements in the Hall Road / Halimote Road / Manson Place part of the village.

11.0 Cornish Lithium

I attended the first two Community Liaison Group meetings at Trelavour.

12.0 Hendra Prazey [PA20/11311]

The application for housing on land at Hendra Prazey was presented to a meeting of the Central Sub-Area Planning Committee for decision on 22nd July. The Chairman of the Parish Council, Julia Clark, spoke and raised concerns about the problems with the site, particularly relating to road safety and the railway bridge. The Cornwall Councillors on the Committee were sympathetic to such concerns, but took the view that the provision of 23 affordable homes outweighed the negatives associated with the site.

The original application had been for affordable rent units (at a discount of about 20% off open-market rents), but I am pleased that, following representations from me and others, this has been changed to social rent properties (at a discount of about 50% off open-market rents). The Land Trust promoting the scheme has also promised that (i) there will be legal agreements that will guarantee the properties will go to households with links to St Dennis Parish and (ii) they will work with the Parish Council in publicising future lettings.

13.0 ClayTAWC

The purchase of the Old School Building by the ClayTAWC organisation of which I am chair is ongoing. It is taking longer than I had hoped but I believe our solicitors have done most of their work and I anticipate the sale to go through in the relatively near future.

I am pleased that there will soon be a community open day to celebrate 25 years of ClayTAWC and this new chapter for the organisation. This will take place on Saturday 31st August. Please look out for more information in the coming days.

ST ENODER PARISH

14.0 Various roadworks in St Enoder Parish

In recent weeks, there have been a lot of trenching along roads and pavements in various parts of the Parish, relating to cabling for internet services and electrical cabling to the bus depot in St Austell Street, Summercourt.

I have made representations to Cormac about the monitoring of the works and I was disturbed to hear that, on Friday 24th May, the temporary traffic lights at Summercourt crossroads were removed by contractors without informing Cornwall Council that the proper traffic lights needed to be switched back on. I am grateful to the Parish Clerk and others for acting promptly to get this sorted. I made further representations about what happened.

15.0 Traffic matters

15.1 Mobile speed visor poles

Residents will be aware that the Parish Council has placed its speed visors on various streetlights in recent years. I have recently secured agreement that an additional five posts will be erected, where we do not have streetlights in an appropriate location. However, I have been told that Cornwall Council will no longer allow speed visors to be placed on streetlights and I have therefore requested additional poles from Cormac.

15.2 Meeting with local Highway Manager

At the meeting on 29th May, and via subsequent phone calls and emails, I have raised concerns and / or discussed progress on a highway-related matters across St Enoder Parish.

Topics included:

· The flooding problems at Trefullock.

· Poor quality of road surfaces, including section near St Enoder Churchtown and along the road between Arrallas turning and Mitchell, at the zebra crossing in the Chapel Road, Indian Queens, and the red surfacing bear to Summercourt School. The red surfacing has just been repaired.

· A considerable amount of lineage is in need of repainting. This includes junction markings, speed bumps on Chapel Road, bus stop markings in St Francis Road, St Columb Road, by Summercourt School, and Beacon Road, Summercourt.

· Recent issues with roadworks, the cabling through local villages and related issues with traffic lights.

· Blocked road gulley at Summercourt crossroads which has led to repeated flooding in the road. This has been cleaned out, but I will intend to keep monitoring this situation.

· Smells near New Row, Summercourt. It transpires that there has been problems with the treatment plant [electricity supply to the blowers had tripped]. Works have been done, but I also will intend to keep monitoring this situation.

· Concerns also raised about parking on and around the Indian Queens Industrial Estate.

· Complaints about vegetation in various parts of the Parish.

16.0 Planning matters

16.1 Proposed holiday development at St Columb Road [PA23/05462]

Last year, a proposal was submitted for outline planning permission for tourist accommodation to the rear of Silver Birch Gardens, St Columb Road, where an application for housing had been turned down previously. There was considerable opposition to the holiday scheme from local residents. I can confirm that Cornwall Council has refused the application. The main reason was as follows:

It is considered that the proposed scale of tourist development in this location would not be well related to the physical form of the settlement and would be at odds with the prevailing character in this location and would appear as inappropriate tourist development encroaching into the open countryside and landscape which would have a detrimental impact upon the intrinsic rural character. The proposal is therefore contrary to policy 2, 5 and 23 of the Cornwall Local Plan and policies 1, 2 and 5 of the St Enoder Parish Neighbourhood Plan.

16.2 Indian Queens Industrial Estate

Last year, planning permission was secured for the extension of Unit 2 on the industrial estate. This followed failed applications for other proposals in this area, which included a new access of Moorland Road that was opposed by local residents.

On Friday 24th May, I was surprised to see a new entrance had been cut through the hedge into the rear of the plot. I have since found that Cornwall Council streetworks had given consent for a temporary entrance for the delivery of some of the framework for the build. Given the previous discussions about the nature of development on this site, I was somewhat annoyed.

The agent for the developers has also lodged their landscaping plan for the project with the Council. It is not the substantial screening that I expected in lieu of the copse of trees and shrubs that had been removed prior to the submission of the various planning applications.

16.3 Burthy Solar farm [PA23/01893]

The solar farm at Burthy near Fraddon was consented last year. Through the planning process it was agreed that the Parish Council would receive £17,000 per annum, which could be used for community projects or grants to community organisations. The Parish Clerk and I have reviewed the legal agreement and sent comments to the developer to aid redrafting.

17.0 Indian Queens Under-5s

I am pleased to see that the works to refurbish the Pre-School building have commenced. These works are being funded by monies from the Community Infrastructure Levy.

18.0 Fraddon Millennium Green

I am also pleased that works are about to start on improvements to the Green. Contractors will soon be removing the old safety surfacing and we will painting the existing equipment. Once the new safety surfacing is down, a new tractor and slide will be installed. Later in the year, contractors will also be on-site to remove dead trees and trim back vegetation, etc.

The core of works are also being funded by monies from the Community Infrastructure Levy.

19.0 Thomas Playing Field, Summercourt

As reported last month, the company that installed the play equipment has confirmed that it will be revisiting the site to carry out significant repair / replacement works in the near future. It looks likely that these will be undertaken in September, just after the school holidays.

20.0 Newsletter

During May, I distributed a newsletter around St Enoder Parish. Thanks to everyone who helped with this. I did not get everywhere but, at the time of writing, I estimate I covered over 98% of the Parish.

SUPPORT FOR LOCAL FAMILIES

21.0 Advice

In addition, I have assisted numerous households and individuals with guidance and advice on a range of topics.

MY LATEST REPORT ON MY COUNCIL DUTIES

Time period: 25th March – 28th April 2024

1.0 Council and other meetings

Over the last month, I have attended a range of physical meetings. At Cornwall Council, these have included Full Council, Central Sub-Area Planning Committee, Constitution and Governance, China Clay Area and Luxulyan Community Area Partnership (CAP), a meeting about a White Paper seeking greater devolution for Cornwall and a training day for councilllors.

I have also attended a range of online Cornwall Council meetings via Teams video-conferencing. These included a meeting of the funding panel for the China Clay Area and Luxulyan CAP, a briefing in advance of the last Full Council meeting, Group Leaders meeting, a meeting for councillors from the China Clay Area and a training session on mineral planning.

Other physical meetings have included Annual Assemblies for both St Dennis and St Enoder Parishes, St Dennis Parish Council, St Enoder Parish Council (2), the working group for a Neighbourhood Plan for St Dennis (2) and the St Dennis and Nanpean Community Trust (incinerator fund),

In addition, I have had informal meetings with a wide range of groups and individuals.

2.0 20mph speed limits

The administration at Cornwall Council is committed to rolling out 20mph speed limits in towns and villages across Cornwall. Detailed proposals have just been published for the China Clay Area. It has been recommended that such speed limits will cover large areas of St Dennis and Trerice Terrace; Fraddon, Indian Queens, St Columb Road, Summercourt and Trevarren. A new 40mph limit is also suggested along Parka Hill, between Fraddon and St Columb Road.

More details on the consultation can be found at https://www.engagespace.co.uk/cornwall/

The consultation started on 16th April and will run until 10th May. I am encouraging people, whether they are in favour or against the proposal, to respond to the consultation.

3.0 Renewable energy

Last month, I reported that I had requested a meeting with representatives of Celtic Sea Power, a company which is leading on a project relating to the off-shore generation of energy that may link into the Indian Queens Power Station. I can report that a meeting has been arranged for 14th May.

4.0 Cornwall Local Plan

Last month, I also reported back on the work towards a new Local Plan. I can confirm that there was a briefing for local parish councils at the last meeting of the China Clay Area and Luxulyan CAP, held on 22nd April.

5.0 National minority status

Over the last month, I have also been involved with activities to mark the tenth anniversary of the recognition of the Cornish as a “national minority” by the UK Government through the Council of Europe’s Framework Convention for the Protection of National Minorities. In particular, I have been raising concerns about how the UK Government has (i) failed to meet its obligations to the Cornish as set out in the Framework Convention and (ii) failed to keep promises made in 2014.

ST DENNIS PARISH

6.0 St Dennis Neighbourhood Plan

I am pleased to have attended two meetings of the working group for a Neighbourhood Plan for St Dennis. We will soon be commencing work on a new document, setting out the “direction of travel” for the Plan, which will then form the basis of the next consultation. Progress with the document will be considered at our next meeting at the end of May.

7.0 Multi-use trail to the Goss Moor

I am continuing to work with the Parish Council with regard to the project to create a multi-use trail between St Dennis and the Goss Moor national nature reserve. Following discussions with staff at Cornwall Council, I have drafted letters for the Parish Council to send to the owners of sections of the trackbed to see if they would be willing to partner with us on this project.

In addition, I am liaising directly with Network Rail and Natural England.

8.0 Signs

A resident has contacted me about the need for village signs at Enniscaven. This was discussed at the last meeting of the Parish Council and it was also felt that it might be nice to have signs at some other locations as well, plus “Welcome to St Dennis Parish” signs at various points into the Parish. I have been working on a report that will be discussed at the next Parish Council meeting.

9.0 Waste bins

In addition, some residents have asked the Parish Council about the possibility of extra waste bins in St Dennis. I am working with the Parish Clerk on a formal request to the unitary authority for a number of additional bins.

10.0 Cornish Lithium

I attended an update meeting with staff from Cornish Lithium at their offices on 27th March and, as the local Cornwall Councillor, I have accepted a place on their proposed Community Liaison Group. The first meeting of this group will be taking place on 2nd May.

11.0 Litter picking

I was pleased to attend St Dennis Parish Council’s community litter pick on 10th April. I really enjoyed clearing the stretch of road between the Domellick car park and the entrance to the power station – a distance of about 200m.

I had cleared this area only 12 months ago, but I was still able to pick up five bags of waste, some shelving and a few fragments of cars (see above).

ST ENODER PARISH

12.0 Central Sub-Area Planning Committee

I referred the application for five dwellings off Pit Lane, Indian Queens (PA23/09094), to a meeting of the above committee, which took place on 8th April. This proposal is on land that had been part-developed without first securing planning permission in the past. The Parish Council raised a strong objection to this proposal and Cllr Ross Wimberley spoke at the meeting.

The application was recommended for approval, but there was a unanimous refusal from the Cornwall Councillors on the committee – bar one abstention. The reason for refusal was as follows:

"The application site is in the countryside and the proposal, by reason of introducing up to five new homes onto the site, would harm the character of the site and surrounding landscape. The proposal is not 'rounding off' of a settlement under Policy 3 in the Cornwall Local Plan Strategic Policies 2010-2030 and/or Housing Policies 2 and 3 of the St Enoder Parish Neighbourhood Plan as a barrier does not exist along the southern boundary of the application site to prevent further residential development in the future and as the nearest settlement envelope to the site is some 100 metres away to the north. It is also not development of previously developed land immediately adjoining a settlement under Policy 3 in the Cornwall Local Plan Strategic Policies 2010-2030 due to the separation distance between site and nearest settlement envelope and as the actual extent of previously developed land on the application site is unknown. In the absence of special circumstances to allow new homes in the countryside, the proposal is contrary to the aims and intentions of policies 2, 3, 7, 12 and 23 of the Cornwall Local Plan Strategic Policies 2010-2030; Housing Policy 2, Housing Policy 3, Landscape Policy 1 and Landscape Policy 2 of the St Enoder Parish Neighbourhood Plan 2018-2030; and paragraphs 135 and 180 of the National Planning Policy Framework 2023."

13.0 Sea View Terrace

For many years, I have been making representations about the road at Sea View Terrace on the road between Fraddon and St Stephen. Highway officers have carried out an assessment and it was chosen as one of 30 locations across Cornwall for a “local safety scheme.” A consultation was recently undertaken around a new 40mph speed limit through the settlement, enhanced gateway signage and improved parking for local residents.

14.0 Thomas Playing Field, Summercourt

In 2019, St Enoder Parish Council installed new play equipment in the playing field in Summercourt. There have been some problems with the installation, which included the rusting of some of the equipment, some slumpage in the groundworks and the discoloration of the safety surface. Cllr Mark Kessell and I have been making regular representations to the suppliers and a site meeting was held on 28th March.

I am pleased to report that the company has confirmed that it will be revisiting the site to carry out significant repair / improvement works in the near future.

15.0 Newsletter

I have just produced a newsletter, which I am now distributing around St Enoder Parish.

SUPPORT FOR LOCAL FAMILIES

16.0 Advice

In addition, I have assisted numerous households and individuals with guidance and advice on a range of topics.

MY LATEST REPORT ON MY COUNCIL DUTIES

Time period: First quarter of 2024

1.0 Funding applications

I am pleased that I can start with some good news. In the late summer of last year, I worked with two local organisations to submit funding applications to Cornwall Council’s Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) Fund. I am extremely pleased that both applications have been successful.

The first application was for £70,000 for the Indian Queens Under-Fives Pre-School. The money will be used to make improvements to their existing Pre-School building. The cladding around the exterior of the structure has been failing for a number of years, and new external cladding will be installed. In addition, the internal walls of the Centre will be replaced, a new non-slip floor surface will be installed and the kitchen will be refurbished.

The second application was for £42,000 for the Fraddon Millennium Green Trust. The funding will install a wooden tractor and trailer slide (in the location of the locomotive that had to be removed in 2023) and the replacement of the existing safety surfacing across the park with a newer “wetpour” surface.

I am also chuffed because this means that the total amount of funding I have secured through grant applications, specifically for works in my division, has now passed one million pounds.

I can also confirm that St Enoder Parish Council will be supporting both of the above projects with funding.

2.0 Council and other meetings

Over the last few months, I have attended a range of physical meetings. At Cornwall Council, these have included Full Council (3), Cabinet (3), Strategic Planning, Customers and Support Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee (4), Constitution and Governance Committee, meeting of Chairs of the various Community Area Partnerships (CAPs), a meeting with officers about the Council’s Equality and Diversity Strategy, China Clay Area and Luxulyan Community Area Partnership (CAP), meetings about the production of a White Paper seeking greater devolution for Cornwall (2), and a meeting about data relating to my role as chair of unitary authority’s National Minority Working Group.

I have also attended a range of online Cornwall Council meetings via Teams / Zoom video-conferencing. These have included “pre-meetings” for Customers and Support Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee (3), informal meeting of Constitution and Governance Committee, Scrutiny Improvement Review Informal Working Group (6), National Minority Working Group, session with officers and senior councillors about the Homechoice Review, meetings about a strategy for the GRT community, a briefing on the Mid Cornwall Metro project, meetings about the production of a White Paper (2), a meeting of councillors from the China Clay and Luxulyan Community Area Partnership, Group Leaders meeting, and briefings in advance of the January and February Full Councils. In addition, I attended a Teams meeting about the possibility of a multi-use trail for St Dennis, plus meetings about road safety measures at Seaview Terrace, local lettings plans (3) and 20mph limits in the China Clay Area.

Other physical meetings have included St Dennis Parish Council (3), St Enoder Parish Council (5) plus a meeting between the Council and the local football teams at the Indian Queens Recreation Ground, neighbourhood plan meeting for St Dennis Parish, Cornish Lithium “coffee morning” sessions at ClayTAWC (2), St Dennis and Nanpean Community Trust, the Incinerator Liaison Group, meetings of the Indian Queens Pit Committee (2) and a number of meetings at ClayTAWC.

In addition, I have had informal meetings with a wide range of groups and individuals.

CORNWALL COUNCIL

3.0 Cornwall Council budget

The Cornwall Council budget for 2024-2025 was agreed at the Full Council meeting on 20th February. Put simply, the Deputy Leader of the Council argued that the Conservative administration was doing a fine job in difficult circumstances, but had no option other than to make cuts, reduce reserves and increase council tax by the maximum allowable amount – all at the same time. But credit where credit is due, Cllr David Harris was forthright in talking about the “financial abyss” facing councils and acknowledged that, if funding arrangements for local government do not change, Cornwall Council will be “bust” within two years.

Speaking on behalf of the Mebyon Kernow / Green Group, which did not support the budget, I pointed out – once again – that Cornwall has a majority Conservative Council, all Cornish MPs are Tories, and the Government in Westminster is also Conservative.

It is indeed time that they collectively delivered, in the words of Cllr Harris, “a longer term funding settlement … based on a fair funding formula” plus a “significant financial intervention” from central government.

4.0 Homechoice

I have written previously about the review into the Homechoice system, through which publicly-owned rental properties are allocated, and how I have outlined my concerns. A meeting was organised for 30th November 2023 for me to discuss my concerns in detail. A number of officers were present including the Service Director for Planning and Housing (Chief Planning Officer) and the Head of Planning and Housing Policy, plus the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Housing.

I recently found that my views were not being taken on board and the ruling Cabinet took the decision, in spite of my challenges, to proceed with their changes to the Homechoice system. I was actively considering “calling-in” the review to a scrutiny committee but discovered that, following the second consultation, the review had been downgraded by the administration from a “key” to a “non-key” decision. This effectively has removed my right to “call-in” the decision. I have challenged this and I am awaiting a response from senior council officers.

I have, nonetheless, had additional meetings about possible “local lettings plans” for the two parishes I represent, which I am continuing to follow up.

5.0 Housing Supplementary Planning Document

At the meeting of Cornwall Council’s Cabinet on 14th February, the administration agreed to task officers to redraft the existing Housing SPD. This followed the changes to the Homechoice system noted above. I challenged the ten members of the Cabinet to broaden the work out to involve the membership of the wider council membership, but my requests were ignored.

6.0 20mph limits

One of the key policies of the administration at Cornwall Council is 20mph limits in built-up areas. This policy is being rolled out, area by area. The Falmouth-Penryn and Camelford networks were completed in 2024, and council staff are now working up detailed proposals for a second tranche of areas, including Clay Country.

The proposed extent of these speed limits for our local villages is quite extensive and there will be a detailed consultation in the very near-future, which I will do my best to promote locally. I believe the consultation is due to start in mid April. Please look out for it and make sure that the unitary authority hears your views.

Officers at Cornwall Council have been looking at issues on the road from Penhale, through Fraddon and St Columb Road, to the Halloon roundabout. I can report that I had meeting to consider whether any of the suggestions emanating from that study could be brought forward in tandem with the new speed limits. I am disappointed at the progress I am making on this, but I am continuing to make representations.

7.0 New approach to waste collection

The new waste collection (fortnightly waste and recycling collections in alternative weeks) has commenced across most of my division, and I had a few queries about what has been happening.

8.0 “Level 2 devolution deal”

On 28th November 2023, the ten-strong ruling Cabinet on Cornwall Council voted to proceed with the so-called “level 2 devolution deal.” But it is not about devolution at all. It is simply a range of very limited accommodations between central government and Cornwall’s unitary authority. I was not surprised that the editorial in the Cornish Guardian, in early December, stated that the deal “doesn’t amount to much.”

I remain disappointed that the “deal” is so insubstantial. But one thing that did please me is that the administration in Truro acknowledges Cornwall needs deeper devolution. It has committed itself to producing a White Paper “making the case for much greater autonomy over Cornwall’s political and economic life.” This will involve a cross-party “reference group” made up of the leaders of the five political groups on the authority. The language in the report about the White Paper is certainly more ambitious and notes that the document would be a ”new and bold vision for a historic national-Cornwall constitutional settlement.” It adds that “the White Paper will give further amplification to Cornwall’s credentials as a nation that can contribute even more to creating a stronger and more sustainable United Kingdom.”

I am actively participating in this project. I have attended a series of meetings already and I am also feeding information to the team from the Local Government Information Unit that are engaged with the project.

9.0 Local consultation events

I have also attended a couple of consultation events for proposals in Clay Country, which lie outside my division. These were about the proposed solar farm at Trelion near St Stephen (St Stephen Community Centre) and the British Lithium project at Goonbarrow and surrounding areas (Roche Victory Hall).

In terms of the Trelion proposal, I understand that the proposal, if consented, would like to link to the Indian Queens Power Station with cabling through clayworks. I was shocked to see that they have a second “fall-back” option, to cable a distance of 7km along roads in St Enoder Parish, extending past Sea View Terrace, along the old A30 through Fraddon and Indian Queens, and past Gaverigan to the power station.

10.0 Renewable energy

At the most recent meeting of the Customers and Support Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee, representatives of Celtic Sea Power gave a presentation about their business plan. This is a long-term project relating to the off-shore generation of energy and the firm is talking about how they might link into the Indian Queens Power Station. No detail is being given at this stage in the development of the scheme, but I have formally requested a meeting to better understand their intentions and what this might mean for our area.

11.0 Cornwall Local Plan

The unitary authority is starting to do background work on how it approaches the production of a new Local Plan for Cornwall, which will set the key planning framework for Cornwall until 2050. Central government expects the work to be completed in a very short period (30 months), though there is a lack of clarity about what is expected of the unitary authority.

I attended a recent briefing about this and I am in the process of ensuring that this briefing will also be shared with a future meeting of the China Clay Area and Luxulyan CAP.

It is likely that the main work will commence in the middle part of 2025, but I am concerned about the processes being put in place to guide the work. I am presently questioning to what extent elected councillors will be able to influence what is happening, which will be driven by senior officers and the leadership of Cornwall Council.

12.0 Road problems

The weather over the last few weeks has been really damaging to the local road network, while there have been a large number of flooding problems. I have been out on a regular basis to visit areas where I know there can be problems, so that I can make a number of representations to Cornwall Council / Cormac.

13.0 Community Chest

As the local Cornwall Councillor, I am allocated £3,000 to grant to local community organisations. I can confirm that, for 2023-24, I supported ClayTAWC (supplies for small foodbank), Indian Queens Pit, Indian Queens Under-5s Pre-School, St Dennis Bells and Ringers, St Dennis Youth Football, St Enoder Youth Club and Summercourt Academy PTFA.


ST DENNIS PARISH ISSUES

14.0 20mph limits

See paragraph 6.0 for an update on the Cornwall Council plans for 20mph limits.

15.0 Planning matters

I have updates on a couple of applications.

· Battery storage areas [PA23/04504 / PA23/06527]. The first of these applications have been approved, while I understand from the planning officer that he is minded to approve the second application as well. The two proposals, each for 50MW, will collectively replace an extant consent for 100MW, which was approved on 2nd February 2022.

· Construction of a house [PA23/04860]. St Dennis Parish Council has raised a strong objection to this proposal for a single dwelling on Hendra Road, next to Jubilee Terrace. It has been refused by Cornwall Council for the following reason:

The proposal would, by reason of the scale and proportions of the plot would be at odds with the prevailing character of the village and fail to provide continuity with the existing built form and character of the surrounding locality. The development would be contrary to the aims of Policies 1, 2, 12 and 21 of the Cornwall Local Plan Strategic Policies 2010-2030, paragraphs 8, 11, 124, 126 and 130 of the National Planning Policy Framework 2023.

· Lithium hydroxide demonstration facility [PA23/09395]. A “prior approval” for this development at the Trelavour Dryers has also been agreed.

16.0 St Dennis Neighbourhood Plan

It is also unclear what the production of a Cornwall Local Plan will mean for neighbourhood plans, but I am pleased that St Dennis Parish Council’s NDP working group has started to meet again. The last meeting was on 20th March and the next three meetings have already been timetabled in.

17.0 Possible multi-use trail

On 18th December 2023, a number of senior officers including the Head of Connectivity and Transport Policy met with me to discuss my representations about the possibility of the creation of a multi-use trail along the old railway line between St Dennis and the Goss Moor nature reserve. The team at Cornwall Council has asked the Parish Council and I to approach those individuals who own sections of the trackbed to understand whether they would be supportive of such a project. St Dennis Parish Council has agreed to making such an approach.

18.0 ClayTAWC

Following the confirmation of the funding to purchase the Old School Building for ClayTAWC, it has been great to start the conveyancing process.

19.0 Cornish Lithium

I popped into a couple of coffee mornings hosted by Cornish Lithium on 20th January and 17th February. I also attended a meeting to discuss their work programme and their geotechnical assessments around the skytips as a summary of the findings is anticipated to be published quite soon.

20.0 Signs

I have been approached about the lack of nameplate signs in places such as Enniscaven. I have raised this with the Parish Council at a recent meeting and there was also discussion about “welcome” signs on entry points into the Parish. I am preparing a report about such signage for a future meeting of the Council.


ST ENODER PARISH ISSUES

21.0 Grant applications for Indian Queens Under-5s and the Fraddon Millennium Green

See paragraph 1.0 for an update on these two successful applications.

22.0 20mph limits

See paragraph 6.0 for an update on the Cornwall Council plans for 20mph limits.

23.0 Seaview Terrace

I have also been following up on the commitment from Cornwall Council to install some road safety improvements at Seaview Terrace, between Fraddon and St Stephen. I had hoped that the works would be done by now, but there have been delays. I can report that Cornwall Council is reviewing the nature of the proposed works.

24.0 Planning matters

As always, there continue to be a number of significant planning applications in St Enoder Parish. Listed below are a few applications with updates.

· Solar farm at Burthy Row / Chytane, Fraddon (PA23/01893). This application was considered at a meeting of the unitary authority’s Strategic Planning Committee on 14th December. It was approved by Cornwall Councillors. In the lead-up to this meeting, I made representations about the proposed community benefit associated with the scheme and ensured that it was increased from a proposed one-off payment of £150,000 to an annual payment £17,000 per annum for a period of 40 years [£680,000]. I also sought and secured additional screening for one property near the development.

· Tourist accommodation to rear of Silver Birch Gardens, St Columb Road (PA23/05462). A number of local people and the Parish Council have objected to development in this area. The scheme has been modified and the number of units restricted to a maximum of 19. There is a fresh consultation on the proposal.

· Nine dwellings to the east of Motor Showroom, Summercourt (PA23/08722). This application has been supported by the Parish Council. There had previously been a consent for houses on the site and there have been no objections from local residents.

· Five dwellings off Pit Lane, Indian Queens (PA23/09094). This application is in an enclosure, which had been part-developed without first securing planning permission in the past. The Parish Council has objected to this proposal and it will be heard at a meeting of Cornwall Council’s Central Planning Committee in the near-future.

· One residential dwelling in place of the old pumping station, Higher Fraddon (PA23/07359). A number of local residents objected to this proposal, but it was passed by Cornwall Council because it was on previously developed land.

24.0 Flooding at Trefullock

As noted above, the recent weather has caused some localised flooding around my division. One of the worst affected areas was the road through Trefullock near Summercourt. Along with the Parish Clerk, I have been making a lot of representations to Cornwall Council about the situation.

25.0 Thomas Playing Field, Summercourt

In 2019, new play equipment was installed into the playing field at Summercourt. Since then, there have been some issues with rust on some of the equipment, plus problems with localised slumps in the groundworks and the safety surfacing.

I have been making representations to the suppliers / installers with Cllr Mark Kessell and other parish councillors, and I am pleased to be able to report that we are nearing agreement for a significant refresh of the area in order to resolve all the concerns that we have raised.

26.0 Indian Queens School

I was also pleased to attend Indian Queens School recently and to be one of a number of speakers about their careers. I spoke my work as an archaeologist, rather than politics.


HELPING LOCAL FAMILIES

27.0 Advice

In addition, I have assisted numerous households and individuals with guidance.