The site was initially identified as a preferred location for purpose built student accommodation in the council’s draft development plan. However, the application site was subsequently removed from the emerging development plan following submission of our planning application. Removal of the site from the emerging development plan meant that, for planning purposes, the 20ha site constituted a greenfield site in the open countryside.

Axis’ experts prepared a planning argument and strategy emphasising how the project would meet most of the residual need for student accommodation in a single development close to the university campus, in line with the council’s own goals. Our arguments included how the development would alleviate pressure on the local housing market, provide new essential infrastructure, create facilities not currently available on campus and deliver significant economic, social and environmental benefits.

With the wider project team, we also carried out extensive consultation with key local stakeholders, including Save Our Falmouth, Save Kernick Industrial Estate, Smithick Ward Residents Association, Falmouth Town Council, local councillors and the wider community; the development received widespread support.