AROUND 800 people visited the Wesley Church Rooms in Saltash to view plans for a large-scale mixed development proposed on the outskirts of the town.

It was the second public exhibition about Broadmoor Farm by developers Commercial Estates Group (CEG), and was the chance to see more detailed plans of the scheme which could include up to 1,000 houses, as well as leisure and employment-related development.

CEG says the project has high environmental standards, with open spaces forming 62 per cent of the overall site; much of the existing woodland will be maintained; and sustainable drainage measures are planned to reduce run-off water.

A new primary school and community centre will be built and, while neither a secondary school or health centre figure in the scheme, CEG says a Section 106 agreement is likely to include contributions towards healthcare facilities, education, public transport and highways.

Communications consultant for CEG Michelle Sammons said the majority of those attending the exhibition were in favour of the development.

Concerns focus primarily on access in what is already a busy area.

As a result of discussions with the Highways Agency and Cornwall Council, CEG says proposed road improvements to be included in the application include a new roundabout on the A388 near Carkeel, and a roundabout at Stoketon Cross.

'Alterations to the existing Carkeel roundabout on the A38 will improve traffic flow,' said a CEG spokesperson.

'Directional improvements are planned for the Hatt junction, which together with traffic calming and pedestrian crossings through Carkeel, will help pedestrians crossing the A388 and encourage traffic away from the village.'

The developers say up to 1,000 jobs could be created but could not, at this stage, be specific, saying it was a 'supply and demand' scenario. A six-hectare employment area would potentially incorporate offices, light industry and warehousing, as well as a hotel and a restaurant or pub.

Former mayor and town councillor Martin Gee said that while the developers had consulted well with residents, the question of where the jobs would come from remained the main concern.

'Fundamentally, we're going to have to build houses in Saltash. Cornwall Council have agreed to build 47,000, and this has come from the Government, so we'll have to take our share,' said cllr Gee.

'You can argue on the detail of it, but what we really need is jobs. When you look at the plan, it's a bit thin, and 1,000 jobs is a huge number.'

Further detail on the types of houses would also come later, said Ms Sammons, and residents have been asked to give their preferences.

Development manager at CEG Matthew Tunley said the company had been encouraged by the support it had received. 'We've listened carefully to the issues raised and have developed our ideas to incorporate as many suggestions as possible,' said Mr Tunley. 'We aim to provide a thriving community which will integrate into existing neighbourhoods, and stimulate investment into the area via new residents, visitors and businesses.'