Retrospective application for works on Cornish common

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We have objected to a retrospective application for works on Pendarves Woods Common, a mile south-west of Camborne in Cornwall.

The application from Mr Robert Weedon is for part of a sand-school, parking areas and track, fuel pumps and tank, and post-and-rail fencing. The works were constructed over a period since 2008.

Before anyone can erect a work on common land, he or she must get the consent of the Secretary of State for Environment. For works which are in the public interest the application is made under section 38 of the Commons Act 2006, for those in the private interest the applicant must provide land in exchange using section 16 of the Commons Act 2006. Mr Weedon has applied under section 38.

We have objected to the application on Pendarves Wood Common because the works are only to the benefit of the owner. They are an eyesore on the common and prevent people from enjoying their right to walk over the whole area.

Since the works have already been constructed without consent, they are unlawful. The applicant has two options. He must either remove them, or provide land in exchange which is as good, if not better, for the public.

The works are an abuse of the common which is a historic and special land-type. We have urged the Planning Inspectorate, which determines such applications on behalf of the Environment Secretary, to refuse consent.

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