The results of an Independent Inquiry called for by the Kernow Branch of the Celtic League in 2003 into the building of 511 luxury apartments and complex on a beach in Cornwall, were made public yesterday.

The Inquiry, set up in November 2006, has refused planning permission for the building of sea wall defences after considerable pressure from campaigners, including the League to oppose what was seen to be the totally ill considered development of Carlyon Bay in St Austell, by the Ampersand Group. The final decision on planning permission rested with Secretary of State Ruth Kelly.

The Kernow Branch of the League previously made formal representations to Restormel Borough Council in St Austell and later to the Independent Inquiry, protesting about the development on environmental and social grounds. The Branch argued that the proposed development was too big, non affordable and would adversely affect the local environment.

The decision to refuse permission for the building of sea wall defences, necessary after an environmental assessment showed that the area would not sustain such a development, is a victory for the local community over big business. However, this does not mean that Ampersand Ltd. will have to completely scrap their plans and may try to rely on early planning permission that was granted by Restormel to develop the area. Ampersand Ltd. has said that they will release a statement over the coming days.

The Kernow Branch of the Celtic League was heavily involved in the campaign against the Carlyon Bay development between 2003 and 2004. They organised protests, attended public hearings, worked together with other groups (including the Welsh housing and language campaign group Cymuned) and conducted interviews on the issue. However, due to limited resources and other commitments, it was later decided by Kernow Branch members not take such a prominent role in the campaign, but to rather support the work being done by Carlyon Bay Watch, the group set up with the specific purpose of opposing the development.

(Report compiled for Celtic News by Rhisiart Tal-e-bot Secretary General)

J B Moffatt Director of Information Celtic League

21/06/07

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