Plans for six affordable homes and three self-build plots on land at Hillhead between Penryn and Falmouth have been supported by Falmouth Town Council's planning committee.

Councillors agreed to support an outline planning application for the land at Hillhead Farm, which falls within Budock parish, despite concerns that it might eat further into the green belt west of Falmouth.

It was pointed out by the town clerk Mark Williams that the application used part of a much bigger plot, and Councillor Steve Gray said: "It could change before it comes to us (as a full application)."

He said he was concerned that this development would be very close to another proposed housing site on old playing fields near to Falmouth School, by Union Corner roundabout, with more near St Francis School.

"It's the thin end of the wedge," he said, "we need to keep a good eye on it and make sure we do try and keep some control."

He added: "If we can keep that green belt with the help of Budock that would be nice.

Other concerns were raised about the fact the houses would be built on land that was technically Budock but would put strain on Falmouth infrastructure, without the town receiving any money through the council tax precept.

Concerns were raised about drainage at the site, which Councillor Diana Merritt said sat in a gully. She said: "I can't see any other use for it.

"It's always saturated, it seems to be wet even in the summer time."

Councillor Vicky Eva said: "Only giving six affordable and three open market, it's quite generous. Personally I haven't got a problem with it.

Councillor Rowenna Brock said she supported the idea of self-build plots: "We're in dire need of people to buy land and build on it themselves."

The committee supported the outline application, and Councillor Grenville Chappel said: "If we object to outline they'll put it through anyway, and we'll talk about it when it comes."