The developer behind the bid to build on the Pitch ‘n’ Putt has vowed to appeal against the decision to reject the application.

Speaking at the planning meeting David Foley of developer Magily said that his company had an established track record of delivering affordable housing in Falmouth and that the site had been introduced to him by the planning manager at Carrick council, David Edmondson.

He added that the attempt to build 40 per cent affordable homes had the backing of Carrick’s own housing department and the application was well designed and would met the needs of Falmouth by supplying homes for local people.

He said: “A collaborative working agreement was entered into which proscribed duties and responsibilities for both parties and said that a dedicated planning officer would be appointed to deal with the application.

“However it became clear that he was not engaged on a dedicated basis.

“Given that this was a major application consequently the application was not dealt with on a dedicated basis. Far from it.

He added that as that the site was brought forward by the council’s own officers he was reviewing the whole position with his company solicitors and would lodge an appeal against the council with costs.

He added: “I feel that I and my company have been badly let down by the council and have become embroiled in local politics through no fault of our own.”

While the developers were clearly angry about the decision the group who fought the application were pleased the plans were rejected.

Alan Clegg said: “While we are very happy with the decision of Falmouth and Carrick councils it is not over yet.”

Alan Jewel, owner of the Pennance Mill caravan site agreed saying: “we are not quite out of the woods yet.”