In a report this week, the planning officer overseeing the Hospital Cross retail development in Helston, decided there would be no need for an Environmental Impact Assessment.

An Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is a process of evaluating the likely environmental impacts of a proposed project or development.

This is the latest screening opinion, which follows a similar one in February, with the same result.

Another screening opinion was submitted following an amendment to the plans - adding a drive-thru Costa Coffee.

The final decision was made despite concerns over badgers currently believed to be on the site.

If the development were to go ahead it would see the delivery of an Aldi food store, a Range home and leisure store with an associated garden centre, a McDonald's drive-thru restaurant, and more recently a Costa Coffee.

In a report this week, the case officer said the proposal, "would not have such significant impacts on the environment so as to require the

submission of a full Environmental Statement."

The officer added in his conclusion:

"It is therefore considered that the proposed development as it stands would not result in complex and significant effects on the environment that would require a full Environmental Statement to be submitted."

The decision not to put together a full environmental assessment was made despite a written objection from Maggie Freegard, who said:

"I maintain there are badgers present at this site. I have spoken with a resident of a house to the east of the site who reports she regularly sees badgers walking at night along the hedges, has done so for many years, and continues to do so. She says the fields, hedges, and ancient lanes are rich in wildlife. I urge you to get another ecological survey done."

In its current format, it is not possible for the public to leave comments at this time. This is because it is a screening opinion and not a formal planning application.

In a notice about the submission, Cornwall Council said:

"Whilst details of Environmental Impact Assessment-related enquiries have been made public via the online planning register, because they are not planning applications they are not subject to the statutory consultation or notification requirements.

"If following the advice given in response to this Screening Opinion

request, a planning application is submitted, statutory consultations, notifications, and publicity will be carried out and you will then have the opportunity to comment.

"Alternatively, you may wish to contact the applicant/agent direct

beforehand using their details provided online, to make them aware of your concerns."

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