The outline planning application which could result in up to 315 new homes being built on land between Ponsharden and the Hillhead roundabout, has been lodged with Cornwall Council.

The land, which is spilt into two sites, is owned by the Church Commissioners of England and the plans include a mix of house types, including an affordable element, along with a new vehicular bridge across the railway line and public open space.

A public consultation event was held back in July and the Cornwall Design Review Panel also offered its opinion on the original scheme and suggestions made have "influenced and shaped the design evolution."

The illustrative masterplan has been designed to create a pedestrian friendly environment with a permeable network of routes encouraging walking and cycling to neighbouring facilities and across the scheme, according to

JTP architects.

The company adds: "The land at Falmouth North will offer a unique opportunity to allow sensitive and integrated growth of the town. Creation of the proposed new neighbourhood will connect new and existing community and recreation facilities, providing easy access to these along the southern boundary and enabling new residents to become part of a wider, established neighbourhood.

"The proposal will provide new homes in a green environment, with safe and attractive pedestrian and cycling routes through the site and to local facilities."

One of the key benefits it is claimed the development would bring is a new neighbourhood for Falmouth with up to 315 homes including those suited to families, first time buyers and the elderly and a proportion of affordable and accessible homes.

It is also said the scheme would also create new public footpaths through the site, with new access over the existing stone bridge that crosses the railway line; transform areas of intensively farmed land into a variety of landscapes including extensive areas of accessible green space, informal parkland, footpaths and cycleways and establish of a "positive frontage" facing onto the Hillhead Roundabout, framing long range views to the east.

It is also claimed there will be substantial economic benefits which would include the creation of 72 construction jobs along with 109 other jobs created in supply chain and local services and about £509,000 per year generated in council tax.

It is anticipated that the outline application will be determined by Cornwall Council by this summer and if permission is granted work could start in 2020. To see the full details of the application go to cornwall.gov.uk and search for planning application PA17/12164