Plans for the development of Penvose Student Village are moving forward following Cornwall Council’s backing of the 2,000 bed scheme.

After gaining approval at the strategic planning committee last month, the Penvose team has been getting everything in place ready to break ground.

The scheme, which will sit between Treluswell and Treliever roundabouts, will provide 2,000 bed spaces, a new home for Penryn Surgery, business and start-ups units, a hotel, shops, restaurants and park and ride.

Mark Dawes, from CAD Architects, who is working with the development company behind Penvose Student Village, said: “Once a scheme, like Penvose Student Village, has been approved there is an often expectation that construction work will begin immediately.

“We’re keen to get the project underway to help solve the student housing crisis in Falmouth and Penryn, and have had a busy two weeks since Cornwall Council voted 12 to two to approve our scheme.

“That work includes productive discussions with the council and advanced conversations with a number of companies interested in taking the business units, as well as firming up designs for the proposed new super surgery for Penryn Surgery.”

The Penvose team believes the site will alleviate the growing number of student HMOs (houses of multiple occupancy) in Falmouth and Penryn.

Information from Cornwall Council’s 2017 council tax figures show there are currently1,396 student HMOs in Falmouth and Penryn, compared to 650 in 2007.

Student accommodation now accounts for 58 per cent of the rental market in Falmouth and Penryn and almost ten percent of all homes in the towns are now HMOs.

Mark added: “The figures also highlight that there will be a shortfall of 1,500 student beds by September 2020, which means Penvose is key to solving this issue. We’re really grateful for the huge amount of support we received during the 18 months consultation process.

“We’ve always aimed to provide a solution to the student housing issues in Falmouth and Penryn and it's fantastic that so many people, including councillors, have appreciated the benefits that Penvose will offer and given us their backing.

“There are still more discussions to take place, however, we’re looking forward to ensuring the university can accommodate growing student numbers, while supporting the local community and families.”

For more information visit penvosevillage.co.uk.