Falmouth University’s plans to “beautify” some “brutal 1980s buildings” on its campus at Woodlane have been unanimously supported by the town council’s planning committee.

Its proposals include creating a new roof structure to cover the internal courtyard of the Fox collection of buildings and providing a new floor deck over the existing refectory.

Architect Adam Parsons told councillors on Monday: “We are looking to create a heart around the refectory and around the internal courtyard by creating a lightweight structure. It will create a multipurpose event space for students to gather, for exhibitions and art galleries.”

The university’s director of estates, Ken Johnson, said: “We have some rather brutal 1980s buildings and we want to try to beautify them. We aim to create our own Eden-type structure on campus.”

Councillors were told that residents of nearby Trelawney Avenue had been invited in to look at the proposals and had been “overwhelmingly” in support of what is planned. They were also reassured that the courtyard would only be used during academic hours so neighbouring residents were unlikely to be disturbed by students who gather there.

Councillor Rowenna Brock said: “I think this has been really well thought out. It is really attractive and a good use of space – it is quite beautiful. I agree that it makes the 1980s buildings look much more attractive.”

The committee offered its unanimous support to the plans which will ultimately be determined by Cornwall Council. If given the go ahead, work would start in mid July and be carried out in phases through to Christmas.

To view the plans in detail go to www.cornwall.gov.uk and search for planning application PA15/02392.