Helston: Bid to turn holiday lets into family homes

An application has been lodged to turn holiday units at Manhay Farm into family homes as the buildings are currently underutilised.

Submitted by Laurence Associates on behalf of Mr and Mrs Pruen - they're seeking permission for a change of use of holiday units to unfettered dwellings - along with an extension to the internal access road at Manhay Farm, near Helston.

The occupancy of the barns at Manhay Farm as dwelling houses is not currently permitted due to the properties being subject to an occupancy condition. Rather than seeking the lifting of this condition, full planning permission for the proposed change of use is sought by the applicant with the intention of securing a clear description of development that would prevent issues for conveyancing solicitors or mortgage companies, should the property ever be sold.

The application also includes an extension to the internal access road off the A394, "extension to the road is minor and would allow direct access to the courtyard in front of the properties. Given the current use of the area, it is not considered that the changes to the access would be of detriment to the overall character of the site," the application reads.

The extended road will give direct access to the courtyard. Credit: Laurence Associates.

"The proposal seeks approval of use from two-holiday units to two dwelling houses; the uses are synonymous with each other, and as such external alterations are not required to facilitate this change of use, and do not form part of this planning application. The extension of the access is minor in nature and would not alter the overall character of the site.

"In terms of economic benefits, the proposals would add to the housing stock in this sustainable location. Regarding social benefits, the proposal would provide two new family homes, and in terms of the environmental benefits, the proposal would make effective use of two underutilised buildings, avoiding the unnecessary development of greenfield land."

The current status of the application is "awaiting decision".

Click here to see the plans for yourself.