APPLICATIONS being considered by the local planning authority for South East Cornwall at the moment include a proposal to knock down a former garage and build houses and a new purpose-built village store and post office in its place.

The scheme is being put forward by Paul and Sophie Boxall, who own the Spar shop in Pelynt.

The plan would see the former Hambleys garage buildings on Shute Hill demolished, and the erection of six houses, and three commercial units. The main unit on the site would house a relocated Spar shop and Post Office: the Boxalls say the store has outgrown its current premises and is not easy to access for those using wheelchairs or pushchairs.

The other two units would be suitable for a range of commercial or workshop uses.

The plan has had the backing of Pelynt Parish Council and so far, members of the public who have commented have been largely in support, with more than one saying that the site is an eyesore and should have been redeveloped long ago.

One neighbour raises concerns about privacy, and another resident mentions their wish to protect a stream and wildlife near the site.

The plans can be viewed by visiting Cornwall Council’s online planning register and using the reference PA20/10043.

Other schemes currently before planners include a full application for the redevelopment of Urban Terrace in Callington.

Residents were evacuated in 2018 after concrete cancer was discovered in the properties belonging to the local authority. The plans would entail the demolition of the existing houses and the building of 15 new homes and parking.

Owners of the Howton Solar Farm at Pillaton are applying for the extension of the life of the site from 25 to 40 years. The applicants say that the farm is expected to operate efficiently well beyond the time originally proposed and that decommissioning it would mean missing out on the continued benefits of renewable energy, as well as recycling equipment that is still sound.

For a full run-down of all the planning applications being processed at the moment see the Public Notices in this week’s edition of The Cornish Times.