Melvill Road, Falmouth nine unit apartment block application

Marble Homes Limited want to build the block on the 0.25 hectare brownfield site south west of Bridge House Apartments in Melvill Road.

The part of the site where the building is proposed to be built is broadly level. The remainder of the site slopes significantly up towards the road. The application says the sloping part provides a “sylvan setting” (wooded area) for the building which will be enhanced.

Where the apartments would be sited (Image: Tristram Stott Architects)

The design and access statement says there are some traces of the previous railway use but no buildings remain.

The site is sandwiched between the road to the south, with its residential area beyond and the Falmouth branch line to the north.

An application on the site for a much larger development of 14 apartments was refused permission in 2016 and subsequently confirmed on appeal.

The trees provide a 'sylvan setting' (Image: Tristram Stott Architects)

The appeal inspector concluded that the removal of numerous trees to the Melvill Road frontage would harm the character of the Falmouth Conservation Area.

Marble Homes says the new scaled down scheme is accessed via the driveway to the recently built next door development.

No new access through the trees is needed and additionally a program of management and additional planting of trees is included.

The accommodation will consists of a range of two and three bedroom apartments for sale.

It is proposed that the lower part of the site is cleared for construction with the remainder enhanced for trees and ecology.

“This design is limited to three storeys in height. It is proposed to use high quality materials - predominantly brick and stone that will be recessive in their setting.,” says the design and access statement.

How the proposed building will look (Image: Tristram Stott Architects)

“The proposal includes 12 off-road car spaces on site intended for residents and their guests.

“There will be three three-bedroomed apartments and six two bedroomed apartments.

“The ground floor would include an entrance area with post boxes and access to the communal stairs and accessible lift. The development will include external secure storage for bins, bikes and leisure equipment.

“The flat roof is accessed from the communal stairs as amenity space and a resource for residents and their guests.”

It says management will be by the residents management committee.