DEVIOCK PARISH PLANJune 2007

This plan will be kept updated on the Parish website www.deviockparish.org.uk

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DESCRIPTION OF THE PARISH Deviock is a relatively new Parish having been formed in 1996 (most Local Government Parishes were formed from Vestry Councils in 1894). Deviock Parish was constructed from the coastal zone of the old St. Germans Parish to which were added small parts of St. Martins and Morval Parishes to enable each of the settlements to be within a single Parish. Before the change the community of Hessenford was in three Parishes and the community of Seaton in two.

Map of Deviock Parish

Deviock Parish

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Currently the Deviock Parish has three villages, Downderry, Seaton and Hessenford, and two hamlets, Narkurs and St. Winnols, with isolated dwellings (mostly farmsteads) in the adjoining lands. The name Deviock was chosen after the small group of houses and the 19th century school situated almost at the centre of the Parish and yet not part of any of the population centres. The name probably follows the family name Devyock held by former occupants of Trerieve.

Historically the majority of the small population lived in the farms and villages away from the coast so that Hessenford and Narkurs were the major settlements. There is a strong probability that this distribution was related to the insecurity of living close to the sea where attack by marauders was possible. (There is direct evidence that Looe was periodically subject to attack). Downderry is not recorded until noted in the 1699 maps of Joel Gascoyne, while Seaton, Hessenford and most of the farms are noted much earlier: Hessenford 1286; Seaton 1302 (ref. Cornish Place Names, O. Padel 1988).

In early times there was a number of east/west tracks, the most important passing through Hessenford with a minor coastal track much admired by Celia Fiennes in 1678 (ref. The Journeys of Celia Fiennes, ed. C. Morris 1947). Other east/west tracks linked the hilltop farms with the watermills in the valleys especially to the many mills alongside the River Seaton but also Tregunnis Mill and Eglaroose.

Hessenford Mill

The structure of the buildings in this landscape was determined by the geology of the area and by the need to be economical with the resources. The fundamental underlying rocks are Devonian shales known locally as shillet, a very friable form of slate partially metamorphosed from layered mudstone. In places the shales are much harder and these outcrops were often the bases of small quarries from which the rubble walls of farm buildings and cottages were built. For the few finer houses worked granite was imported

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from afar with, one supposes, great difficulty. Tregunnick Farmhouse (see photograph on page 4) is the best existing example. Recent research seems to confirm that Tregunnick Farmhouse is also the oldest existing building in Deviock Parish. The Devonian shales form the basis of the rolling hills, a plateau transected by a number of river valleys cut out as the water ran south to the sea. The Seaton is the largest of the rivers which could have been navigable by very small rafts. Deviock Pool at the mouth of this river is reported as a haven for small fishing boats. At Seaton and at Downderry the coastal plain of solufluction material results in quite low cliffs and the consequent easy access to the sea. Also potential invasion of enemy forces limited the development of coastal villages so the oldest villages Hessenford and Narkurs are situated away from the coast.

Tregunnick Farmouse

There appears to be a number of events which periodically triggered expansion of the population from the small fishing and farming communities. The first of these was the post Napoleonic boom in smuggling where redundant sailors became either smugglers or preventative men. Because Downderry beach was accessible, a coastguard station was built and officers and their families moved in around 1830 much swelling the farming and fishing population and requiring additional service provision such as stores and blacksmiths. Some thirty years later Brunel’s Railway came to St. Germans and the wealthier Victorians discovered the delights of the seaside. This caused another expansion and a parallel move to import some building materials, so the form of buildings changed. Development after this time was more steady although there were major changes between the wars and immediately after World War II when ready access by automobiles brought a wider range of social classes to the villages. At the same time the larger conurbations of Torpoint, Liskeard and especially Plymouth had an effect upon immigration and occupation of the residences. It is interesting to note that while the coastal villages expanded out of the coastal plain up into the hills, Hessenford and particularly Narkurs

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became smaller as the economy moved away from agriculture towards tourism. These social factors are reflected by the various vernacular styles now appreciated by the current population and which inform the architectural section of this plan.

Hessenford Village: largely a conservation area with desirable vernacular features

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LAYOUT OF THIS DOCUMENT The content of this plan is divided into 10 sections as outlined below:

A. Employment/Work p. 7 B. Housing, Affordable Housing and Main Services p. 10 C. Transport, Roads, Public Transport, Parking p. 13 D. Countryside and Landscape p. 16 E. Parish environment and Village design p. 19 F. Tourism p. 23 G. Recreation and Leisure p. 26 H. Community Services and Community p. 29 I. Environmental Changes p. 32 J. Renewable Energy p. 34

Appendices p. 37- 48

There is some overlap as each section was prepared by a different team but in no case is there conflict between suggestions.

Each presentation contains three elements:

1. Current Situation: an analysis of what we have at present, i.e. where we are now;

2. Statement of Need: a statement of what we require in the future based on the ratified appraisal i.e. where we would like to be;

3. Action: an action plan to enable the move from 1 to 2, i.e. our journey.

The report/plan resulting from this activity will need very regular updates. Some changes are already incorporated in this version having become necessary since the original draft.

The plan presented here is one of concepts. No attempt has been made to produce a spatial strategy which could be achieved by a “Planning for Real” exercise1.

A “Planning for Real” exercise with the children of St. Nicolas School could inform the future updates. Perhaps older folk would also like to “play” at Planning for Real!

1 Planning for Real is a modelling scheme where the target audience is invited to select features which they feel are necessary and then to position these features on a large but simplified map. It provides a practical rather than a conceptual approach toParish design.

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A. EMPLOYMENT

A1. CURRENT SITUATION

i) Deviock is a rural Parish with most employment in the following sectors:-

�� Farming, horticulture, fishing; �� Leisure/tourism – pubs, cafés, restaurants, leisure fishing e.g. Bake Lakes and

seashore; underwater diving influenced by nearby wreck reef (Scylla); �� Public sector – health, education; �� Retail – shops, POs, Bake Sawmill, Narkurs nursery; �� Self employed – plumbers, hairdressers, childcare and adult care; �� Commuters – daily, weekly or longer.

ii) Local vacancies are usually unskilled and involve low pay and/or unsocial hours.

iii) Some of the larger local businesses allow staff to take NVQs and apprenticeships etc.

iv) There is very limited infrastructure to support businesses, few purpose built premises, narrow roads with poor unloading and parking, limited broadband and mobile telephone coverage and no training facilities. Although Caradon has been very successful in providing business units in the District there are none within the Parish.

A2. STATEMENT OF NEED

i) Unemployment level appears higher than the national average.

ii) Reward level is often lower than the national average – low wages mean long hours.

iii) Impact of commuting, other travel and unsocial hours on individuals, families, community and environment.

iv) Young people often leave the area to train but cannot find suitable local employment thus preventing their return (enforced migration).

v) Impact of existing businesses / limitations of current facilities (e.g. unloading, parking).

vi) Loss of facilities in Parish (e.g. garages, shops, Post Offices).

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vii) No local training means travel time / expense / pollution incurred.

viii) All businesses surveyed stated the advantages of working locally or at home for themselves, their families, the environment and their customers.

ix) Farm incomes are now subject to external, political and bureaucratic pressures – farmers are no longer big employers.

A3. ACTION

Roads/Parkingi) The public consultation unanimously supported a requirement for off-street parking

where business use of domestic premises encouraged visitors (41-0).

ii) Nearly all businesses surveyed mentioned off-street parking as vital, as well as some form of control for parking generally, with concerns that some businesses take up spaces intended for casual use, adversely affecting others. Issues of obstruction caused by lorries and the need for short term (10-20 minutes) parking were also mentioned, as was speeding both in the villages and the lanes.

iii) Most businesses were concerned about extra traffic, with several suggesting (new) businesses should be grouped to give easy access for drivers and pedestrians.

Planning/Premisesiv) Public consultation unanimously supported conversion of existing individual

redundant farm buildings if suitable for light industry (50-0), and redevelopment of existing sites (38-0), but opposed new development (12-35). This was echoed by the survey of local businesses.

v) Farm diversification initiatives were also unanimously supported (43-0) by the public consultation.

vi) The public consultation gave support to the use of one room as an office to allow residents to work from home (39-2), and to the limiting of business use restrictions on new developments (27-13).

vii) The public consultation unanimously agreed that provision and expansion of local shops and services should be supported and encouraged (49-0), and supported provision of a local Health Centre (54-0).

viii) Businesses surveyed suggested upgrading facilities like parking and toilets to encourage locals and visitors to use local businesses. Parking, in particular, needs careful thought in order to help businesses and for preventing abuse for the good of all.

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ix) Nearly all businesses supported expansion in the availability of premises but with caution regarding any noise or pollution, especially in residential areas, and regarding additional traffic and visual impact. Most felt expansion of local businesses should be limited to that appropriate to the rural nature of the Parish. Some expressed the view that big issues like these should be voted on in a Parish referendum rather than just by the Council.

Training/Supportx) Not covered in the public consultation but businesses would like some local training

to be available. This could include distance learning facilities and a student loan facility.

xi) Some businesses raised questions regarding availability of help and subsidies, not just for themselves but for new, and possibly inexperienced, businesses. (It could be useful for bodies which already work in this field to publicise themselves regularly within the Parish, e.g. Business Link, Enterprise Tamar, Jobcentre, Truro College).

xii) The advantages of using local businesses and training opportunities should be publicised to encourage their use by the community, building on the desire to support them as expressed in the public consultation.

Co-operationxiii) Some businesses suggested co-operation to allow smooth flow of traffic in the

community while supporting each other by selling locally produced items.

PARTNERS

Businesses, Deviock Parish Council, Caradon District Council, Business Link, Enterprise Tamar, Jobcentres.

Section C (which follows) will supplement these considerations.

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B. HOUSING, AFFORDABLE HOUSING AND MAIN SERVICES

B1. CURRENT SITUATION

i) An eclectic mix of styles reflecting the period in which the houses were built from the traditional stone built vernacular to the ubiquitous modern home.

ii) These styles illustrate the change from the use of local materials to an ever increasing reliance upon imports.

iii) In the new build developments very little attention is given to the unique potential of the sites or the prevailing local climate.

iv) Parish population currently at 1350 in the three wards.

v) Only 7.7% participated in the 2004 public consultation.

vi) Existing dwellings consist of Detached Houses, Semi-detached Houses, Flats, Apartments, Sheltered Units, Farms and Outbuildings, some 711 in total increasing annually by approximately 10 units.

vii) Of these Permanent Residences, Second Homes, Rented Accommodation, Holiday Homes and Homes for Locals feature (Holiday Homes account for approximately 11% and long term unoccupied by a further 4%).

viii) Proposals for new housing (beyond existing commitments) are restricted to infill, conversions or redevelopment within the village development limit.

ix) Each village has different priorities.

x) Hessenford is a conservation area where development is constrained by steep valley sides.

xi) Seaton evolved from early wooden chalets and bungalows serviced by unmade lanes which substantially determined the village character and subsequent development.

xii) Between the villages and the hamlets there are a number of farmsteads. In recent years there has been some amalgamation of land holdings creating some larger farms and leaving some groups of farm buildings without workable land. There has also been a trend to modernize farm practices and often this has meant old style buildings becoming redundant. This is one part of Farm Diversification.

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B2. STATEMENT OF NEED

i) That development expansion is restrained and has little impact. The strongest emphasis in the appraisal was that the only need for further development was for “homes for locals” and for sheltered accommodation.

ii) Compatibility with site and climate should be recognised and incorporated when infill or redevelopment occurs. Design should incorporate elements of the vernacular style.

iii) Density, design and size of dwellings should be similar to other developments in the vicinity and incorporate recognised elements of the local vernacular style.

iv) Special care to be taken in the conservation area of Hessenford.

v) On site parking is paramount. At least two independently usable spaces should be provided. The provision of a garage should be in addition to these two spaces.

vi) There is need to support farm diversification and the change of use of quality but redundant farm buildings to maintain the viability of some farm units. There is no need to retain or rebuild derelict structures.

B3. ACTION

i) Development proposals with fewer than two parking spaces per residential unit be recommended for refusal.

ii) Maximum support will be given to the restraints imposed by the village boundary (development limit) as shown on the Local Plan and incorporated in the Local Development Framework. This boundary MUST remain inviolate. Only “Homes for Locals” (i.e. Affordable Homes) and Sheltered Accommodation could breach these restraints if necessary, to encourage lower cost development.

iii) A document supplementing the Caradon Design Guide be produced explaining the essential elements of the local vernacular in each village.

iv) Conversion of small houses into much larger units exacerbates the problem by reducing the number of two bedroom properties. Subdivision of larger houses into sustainable smaller units would make more affordable properties available.Retention and provision of such smaller units would provide for “downsizing” for older people and enable young people to have starter homes while bringing larger houses into the market. Actions of this nature to be encouraged by good planning.

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v) Accept change of use of quality farm buildings but ensure that any such building is first offered for light industrial and/or commercial use. Residential conversion should only occur when alternative industrial possibilities have been tested and eliminated. Where the residential option is accepted care must be taken to retain those vernacular features which warrant retention of the building BUT, concurrently, some appropriate extensions and modifications can be allowed in particular to ensure the barnhouse is energy efficient and fit for the new purpose. This may well mean the acceptance of appropriately designed porches, chimneys and small extensions. Adjacent new builds, such as garages, must incorporate vernacular features matching the main building.

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C. TRANSPORT, ROADS, PUBLIC TRANSPORT, PARKING

C1. CURRENT SITUATION

i) Roads within the Parish consist of a network of minor lanes, a ‘B’ road through Downderry and Seaton to Hessenford, and the A387 through Hessenford. Traffic volume is not usually a problem, but the inappropriate speed of some vehicles is a concern, particularly through the villages but also outside the built up areas. All three villages can be short of parking space. Except for Seaton the primary difficulty is lack of space to increase availability. Some narrow lanes historically used only for local access are now frequently used as thoroughfares.

ii) Downderry is not pedestrian friendly due to narrow, walled roads and lack of pavements. In most sections pedestrians, including children going to and from school, share the road with vehicles.

iii) There are few roadside parking restrictions, so inconsiderate roadside parking can and does cause obstruction. Particular problems are caused for public services, buses etc. However, there should be no further ad hoc parking restrictions deployed pending completion of a broader management plan, as parked cars may reduce the speed of passing traffic and provide sanctuary for pedestrians along the walled roads.

iv) Pedestrian facilities are good in Seaton, due to the raised pavement along much of the main road, though a pedestrian crossing may be advantageous. The exception to this is Seaton Hill which is very dangerous, but this situation could be partially resolved by the proposed Rocknose Walkway. There is often insufficient parking available for visitors in the summer, due to the popularity of Seaton Beach and Countryside Park. The public car parks are often full, meaning parking spills out onto the roadsides and grassed areas, despite the restrictions. General traffic calming measures have broad support.

v) Unlike the other villages, Hessenford has a main road running through it. It also has a minor lane frequently used as a thoroughfare. Reducing the speed of through traffic on the main road would be an improvement. General traffic calming measures and minor road access restrictions should be evaluated. Safe roadside parking is very scarce: further research is required to determine if a car park is needed for residents and visitors. Similarly investigation as to a suitable parking site must be undertaken. The current speed limit along the Seaton Valley road seems excessive for the conditions and could be reduced. The problems in Hessenford may be exacerbated now the former garage site has permission for redevelopment.

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vi) Public Transport is limited, especially in the coastal villages, and is quite variable as the service providers seek to balance need with economy. It could be that, as fuel costs rise, the balance will change and an increasing number of people will seek alternatives to the private car.

C2. STATEMENT OF NEED

i) There is support from residents for some traffic calming measures in Downderry, Seaton, Hessenford and Narkurs. Incorporating artificial hazards similar to schemes already implemented very effectively in other nearby villages may not be appropriate. Flashing speed warnings seem favoured.

ii) Pedestrian movement needs to be improved by developing and implementing a roads enhancement plan to improve the environment for those on foot.

iii) There is need for a broad-based traffic management plan to consider roadside parking, traffic speeds and their interaction. In particular this needs to take into consideration the particular circumstances which occur in summer due to the popularity of the coastal parts of the Parish. Hessenford has a particular need as it is situated astride a major road between Plymouth and Looe and has no off street public car parking.

iv) A problem has developed at Narkurs where the road through the hamlet is increasingly used as a short cut through to the coast.

v) Some Parishioners are currently in need of public transport beyond that currently provided. It is probable that this need will increase.

C3. ACTION

i) A management plan for traffic control throughout the Parish should be developed following evaluation of traffic movements and pedestrian safety. This is likely to propose a wide raft of traffic calming measures, speed restraints and some further on-road parking restrictions. Police intervention may be necessary to prevent abuse of parking restraints which often constitutes a traffic hazard.

ii) Given the current traffic flow problems that on-road parking in Downderry currently causes, making the Broad’s Yard car park fee-paying has been singularly unhelpful. ( although the recent introduction of a low cost first hour does assist local people to use local shops and the surgery)

iii) The mismatch between charging regimes at Seaton car parks and roadside parking restriction periods is confusing and should be rationalised

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iv) A careful watch must be kept and analysis made of the transport needs of those without private cars so that the requirement may be satisfied by some means. Alternatives include the Community Bus, Taxi services and car sharing. It may be that increasing need will make a local bus service to Plymouth, Liskeard, Looe and the St Germans rail station viable.

v) Reduction of the speed limit in Hessenford (on the A382) from 40mph to 30mph and positioning of speed cameras at each end of the village.

PARTNERS

All Residents Associations, County Highways, Deviock Parish Council, Transport Partnership, Community Bus Association. Devon and Cornwall Police

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D. COUNTRYSIDE AND LANDSCAPE(The natural environment)

D1. CURRENT SITUATION

i) An attractive open environment of valleys and hills.

ii) Hillsides with a tendency to be treeless but extensive woodlands in Seaton Valley both north and south of Hessenford.

iii) Wide variety of habitats supporting a very rich fauna and flora.

iv) The habitats include deciduous woodland (including truly ancient woodland), wet woodland (alder carr), coniferous woodland, flower rich meadow, furze scrub, coastal grassland, rocky shore, sandy shore, rivers and ponds (lowland freshwater is uncommon in Cornwall and therefore especially valuable).

v) There are many miles of unique Cornish earthbanks and hedges with their distinctive flora and fauna.

vi) A number of preserved habitats are present including a large local nature reserve (LNR), some small sites of special scientific interest (SSSIs) and other sites identified by Cornwall Wildlife Trust.

vii) A comprehensive inventory of the biota of the Countryside Park LNR has not yet been produced.

viii) Scenically the landscapes and seascapes are superlative. The offshore submarine habitats are very diverse and worthy of conservation study.

ix) Work by local naturalists over many years has produced an extensive list of indigenous species and many which are unusual immigrants (See appendix 1).

x) Caradon District Council no longer has specialist countryside officers in post.

D2. STATEMENT OF NEED

i) The diversity of habitats and features present today must be protected and enhanced.

ii) A proper and inclusive inventory must be assembled of all the habitats and significant species to enable protection of important wildlife. This must include details from the LNR.

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iii) Nesting and roosting sites for birds and bats must be identified and logged to ensure protection.

iv) Proper hedgerow/hedgebank management must be ensured so that excess cutting does not occur and that the timing of the cut is appropriate to the flowering and nesting seasons.

v) All efforts must be made to prevent ingress of invasive alien species and to eliminate those which become problematical.

vi) Develop events, procedures and literature to encourage an interest and involvement by Parishioners of all ages to know and conserve their Parish wildlife.

vii) Persuade as many householders as possible to encourage wildlife into their gardens by sympathetic management.

viii) Plant areas outside of the Seaton valley with indigenous trees of local provenance to provide more woodland cover and provide wildlife corridors along which many species can migrate, linking for example the Seaton woodlands with the Lynher Woodlands.

Seaton Countryside Local Nature Reserve

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D3. ACTION

i) Begin developing a comprehensive inventory by collating information held locally by group and individuals with other records held by Cornwall Wildlife Trust (e.g. ERICA and other databases) the Caradon Field Club and the Councils.

ii) Include marine, littoral and submarine habitats in inventory studies.

iii) Develop integrated maps to identify significant and controlling features.

iv) Be vigilant to prevent thoughtless developments which might damage rare, important or visually significant sites.

v) Notify appropriate authority of the location of invasive species.

vi) Propose Tree Preservation Orders where appropriate.

vii) Where possible add to habitat types by allowing some species to flourish in agricultural monocultures and village gardens.

viii) Develop publishable information to advise Parishioners of significant species and significant procedures.

ix) Produce and publish annotated maps of linear and circular walks within and from the Parish.

PARTNERS

Cornwall Wildlife Trust, RSPB, Caradon Field Club, Caradon Council Wildlife Officer, Groundwork Trust, Local Divers, Parish Council & Nut Tree for information provision.

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E. PARISH ENVIRONMENT AND VILLAGE DESIGN

E1. CURRENT SITUATION

i) The overriding feature of the villages is the topography. The whole Parish with its hills , valleys and coastal features lies within an Area of Great Landscape Value.

ii) The linked coastal villages owe their existence to their proximity and easy access to beaches and sea.

iii) In Downderry and Seaton the open sea and the coast line form the predominant aspect and southern boundary. The steeply rising ground and valleys behind this frontage provide opportunities for spectacular properties.

iv) Hessenford, situated in an inland sheltered valley on a busy through route from ancient times, presents a very different environment.

v) For several generations these villages have been considered as a family holiday destination albeit not as a crowded coastal resort.

vi) Surrounding the villages are numerous farms and two hamlets Narkurs and St. Winnols.

vii) Because of the sporadic development, especially of the coastal villages, historic vernacular buildings are few. There are designs from all eras.

viii) Many buildings started as wooden chalets and bungalows for leisure occupation by visitors from local towns.

ix) Some substantial domestic buildings were developed in the 19th and 20th centuries to house the wealthier residents and wealthy visitors and other substantial buildings developed around a service industry.

x) In the latter half of the 20th century most buildings were built by assorted builders to a modern design.

xi) Recently subdivision of small curtilages has reduced garden and amenity space.

xii) Specialist tourist facilities are practically non existent (see section F).

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Downderry Village Vernacular features in Hessenford

E2. STATEMENT OF NEED

i) New developments need not necessarily adopt a pastiche of the countryside aesthetic. Contemporary designs can comfortably and credibly incorporate some of the basic elements of traditional features, as promoted by the Cornwall Design Guide.

ii) Affordable Housing for Locals is much in demand.

iii) Small workshops must be made available within easy reach, perhaps as part of farm diversification (See section A).

iv) Farm diversification may be desirable.

v) Further provision for sheltered accommodation and residential homes is advisable (See section B). There is only limited real need for further executive housing.

vi) There is need for pre and post school facilities (some has been provided since the original draft e.g. a Breakfast and Teatime Club in Downderry).

vii) ITC and especially Broadband may reduce traffic and add employment (See section A).

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viii) A variety of traffic control measures are essential including speeding restraints and additional car parking.

ix) More recreational facilities must be developed for all age but most particularly for the young people (See section G).

x) There was a perceived need for a Public hall in Seaton.

xi) Walking routes and Public Rights of Way within and between the villages need improvement.

xii) Vernacular features such as the stone walls and gardens should be retained and maintained.

xiii) Plot sizes and amenity space provision must be maintained to prevent urbanisation.

xiv) Investigate restructuring and major redesign of Downderry centre.

xv) Replace or conceal overhead wires, cables and satellite dishes.

Photographs of some local vernacular features, e.g. boundary wall with epiphytic plants and renovated building to “match” the street scene in the conservation area

E3. ACTION

i) Ensure that all ongoing design applications for vernacular building and car parking etc are compatible with the street scene.

ii) Ensure that the features which warrant AGLV status such as gardens adequate to develop trees and green space are retained

iii) Identify sites and implement feasibility studies for potential affordable and sheltered housing.

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iv) Investigate effect of farm diversification, new light industry and new crops.

v) Preserve detail in existing built environment, such as stone walls and trees.

vi) Reduce access to beaches for non essential vehicles.

vii) Identify sites for and request provision of additional dog bins and bags.

viii) Identify new and extended walking routes such as the Rocknose Walkway between Downderry and Seaton.

ix) Identify and implement further formal and informal recreational facilities.

PARTNERS

Deviock Parish Council, Caradon District Council, Cornwall County Council, St. Nicolas School, Downderry and Seaton Residents’ Association, Seaton Residents’ Association, Hessenford Residents’ Association.

Reference: CORNWALL DESIGN GUIDE 1995 CARADON DESIGN GUIDE 2000 ( Guides not Bibles ! )

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F. TOURISM

F1. CURRENT SITUATION

i) The Parish has a number of facilities available for use by tourists as well as by the residents. These include 3 Public Houses with dining facilities, a specialist restaurant and 3 cafes.

ii) There is a variety of temporary/holiday accommodation available, including 3 caravan sites, 1 guest house and approximately 10 Bed & Breakfast establishments.

iii) Among the 711 residential properties there are some 77 Holiday Homes and 23 “long term” empties which may be Holiday lets/Homes.

iv) There is a large Countryside Park in Seaton owned and managed by Caradon District Council.

v) There is a number of safe and easily accessible beaches.

vi) The long distance South West Coastal Footpath traverses the southern boundary of the Parish.

vii) There are good, well stocked shops in Downderry and Seaton.

viii) There is an extensive network of Public Rights of Way and permissive paths, many of which are wheel chair accessible.

ix) The beaches often accumulate sea borne and other debris.

x) Residential holiday makers are sometimes careless with their rubbish.

xi) Village Centres are sometimes less than pristine.

xii) Public Toilets are frequently despoiled by public abuse.

xiii) For some parishioners tourism is a mixed blessing.

F2. STATEMENT OF NEED

i) Advertise the facilities to all.

ii) Encourage environmental cleanliness of streets and beaches.

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iii) Ensure improvements to Public toilets.

iv) Re-plan village centres and car parks to make them more attractive, while retaining significant features.

v) Dissuade inappropriate use of the beaches by non-essential users.

vi) Identify extra parking for peak summer periods in Seaton & Downderry and provide car parking in Hessenford for visitors (local people often have adequate private space).

vii) Need to ensure that resident population is not disadvantaged by mass tourism.

Seaton Beach

F3. ACTION

i) Seek sponsors to improve signage and support for an informative leaflet.

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ii) Endeavour to place floral displays around village centres.

iii) Negotiate with Landowners/Householders to encourage visual improvements.

iv) Seek to arrange beach cleaning on a regular and more frequent basis.

v) Continue to assess the effect of tourism upon the resident population.

vi) Incorporate good practice to minimise inconveniences caused by tourists to residents.

vii) Develop new facilities for residents and tourist alike.

viii) Monitor changes.

PARTNERS

Parish Council, Residents Associations, Marine Conservation Society, Caradon District Council, Cornwall County Council.

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G. RECREATION AND LEISURE

G1. CURRENT SITUATION

i) Limited scope for formal organised outdoor recreation although plans are in hand for a football pitch adjacent to a multipurpose all weather area.

ii) There is a Downderry Football team which has to play home matches in other towns and villages.

iii) There are also suggestions/plans to construct some facilities in the Axe field (if safety issues can be resolved).

iv) Some indoor facilities in Downderry for Badminton and Table Tennis and in Hessenford and Downderry for Billiards and Snooker. Yoga, Skittles and Short mat Bowls are also played in various locations.

v) There is very little provision for pre-school children, as even the play areas lack basic facilities like swings and slides.

vi) The extensive network of paths and lanes enable informal recreation for walking, jogging, running and orienteering. Some of these lanes are also bridle paths for horse riding.

vii) The largest expanse of open area is the beach which is currently underused but this is not often suitable for formal recreation.

G2. STATEMENT OF NEED

i) There is a need to expedite the current plans for development of the flat field at Tanver Yate (or at a suitable alternative perhaps in Seaton).

ii) This development should include changing rooms which can incorporate a classroom for a wide range of leisure and educational classes.

iii) The all weather pitch envisaged should be large enough for two tennis courts which, in turn, would allow it to be used for netball and five a side football.

iv) To enable winter use the all weather pitch should be floodlit to 9 pm (2100 hrs) (as in Menheniot model).

v) The numerous skateboarders need to be catered for, the single small ramp in Seaton being inadequate. A suitable site must be identified.

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vi) The play area in Seaton should be upgraded and other play areas developed in the other villages if locations can be identified.

vii) There is much potential for the development of water sports such as canoeing, gig racing, and dinghy sailing but winter storage for craft needs to be considered.

viii) Informal recreation leading to fitness for all needs to be considered. The extension of the paths network and the provision of seating is needed.

G3. ACTION

i) Improve signage so that facilities which exist can be better known and better used Support the provision of an information leaflet.

ii) Provide annotated Parish route maps.

iii) The Principal Authority will be encouraged to market their local paths network in the Countryside Park, to complete the boardwalk to avoid wet areas in certain seasons and to totally avoid the need for people on foot to use the busy Seaton-Hessenford road (A3247). Erect distance markers for joggers.

iv) Make available craft of various types to develop water sports: consider a gig club, construction of launching facilities and perhaps a slipway at Seaton.

v) Encourage local use of existing facilities e.g. Working Men’s Club of Downderry & Seaton and the Hessenford Institute where indoor recreation is or could be provided.

vi) Develop suitable classroom facilities for water sport training.

vii) Control vehicles parking on the beaches while allowing launching.

viii) Seek to arrange beach cleaning more often on a regular basis. Introduce fines for persistent offenders.

ix) Increase the number of bins for dog waste.

x) Seek suitable sites for play areas and skateboarding. Study the need as expressed by the youngsters.

xi) Develop recreational opportunities for juniors with the help of other organisations from within and outside the Parish.

xii) Seek a suitable building to provide a Youth Club with facilities.

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xiii) Develop multisport facilities as a priority.

xiv) Investigate purchase of dedicated bus or other opportunities to transport groups of children to existing facilities in other towns and villages (if current Community Bus cannot offer this provision).

xv) Encourage new forms of Leisure activity (e.g. support the embryo Film Club).

xvi) Enable extended use of the Downderry/Seaton seawall path by constructing an east facing stairway at the eastern end thus avoiding tidal restrictions.

PARTNERS

Deviock Parish Council, Downderry and Hessenford Working Men’s club and Institute, Downderry and Hessenford Churches, Plymouth University, St. Nicolas School, Millennium Volunteers, Caradon District Council and Cornwall County Council, Youth Agencies.

Downderry Boats (with Looe Island showing)

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H. COMMUNITY SERVICES

H1. CURRENT SITUATION

i) There is one small surgery at Downderry (a satellite of the main surgery at St.Germans). Also in Downderry there is stored a defibrillator, purchased by public subscription, for use by First Responders to heart attack victims

ii) No dedicated school, clubs or sports transport for primary school children. There are Rainbows, Brownies and the Sheila School of Dance all of which appeal predominately to girls. There is little specifically for boys, although Junior Football and Karate are sometimes available.

iii) There is a primary school of around 100 pupils. The nearby Anglican Church has been modified to allow secular use and the school is able to take advantage of this provision. There is no nominated parking space at the school for parents dropping off or collecting their children.

iv) There is no safe crossing for visitors parking in the car parks at Seaton and Downderry to enable them to safely access the beach. This can be hazardous in summer.

v) There is only one Residential Care Home for the elderly in the Parish.

vi) Only Downderry and Hessenford have halls which the public may use.

vii) There is insufficient encouragement for people to use public transport.

viii) There are no facilities for tennis or bowls and no sports pavilion. A football pitch and multisports area are needed.

ix) Indoor recreation confined to skittles, short mat bowls and billiards and snooker with badminton available at Downderry.

x) Hessenford is without a shop or Post Office.

xi) The spiritual needs of the community are met by three traditional churches (two Anglican and one Methodist). Congregations are not large and the Churches operate under financial constraints. The only graveyard, at Hessenford, has been closed and the Parish asked to consider provision of an accessible alternative site.

xii) There is very little serious crime other than intermittent vandalism often alcohol induced. There are occasional visits by criminals from other towns and cities.

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H2. STATEMENT OF NEED

i) A Parish Health Centre incorporating a Dentist and a Pharmacy.

ii) There is a need to recruit and train more locally based First Responders

iii) Primary School to provide breakfast and afternoon clubs for children.

iv) Primary School to incorporate an adult education centre with ITC.

v) Holiday Clubs for children of working parents.

vi) Dedicated transport for taking children to appropriate sports venues.

vii) Parking area for parents dropping or collecting children to/from school.

viii) Further provision of high quality sheltered accommodation.

ix) Extended use of Public Halls to incorporate ITC centre.

x) A shop/post office in each village.

xi) The valued community bus timetable published in Nut Tree to appear more often.

xii) Provision must be considered for burials etc of deceased Parishioners.

xiii) A new cemetery site to be identified.

xiv) Police action will sometimes be required rapidly to prevent escalation of problems

H3. ACTION

i) Extend consultation with doctors and Primary Health Care Trust to encourage a health centre and improve local provision.

ii) Actively seek/consider acquisition of an accessible cemetery within the Parish.

iii) Liaise with School, Education Authority and Church to encourage wider use of School facilities.

iv) Arrange visits and studies of other communities where facilities have been achieved.

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v) Keep Parishioners fully informed of progress at all times using any method including the Nut Tree.

vi) Make residents fully aware that only facilities they use frequently will remain viable.

vii) The parish must maintain close liaison with the policing system and the officers allocated to support the parish ( currently this local system in based on Torpoint )

PARTNERS

Deviock Parish Council, Caradon District Council, Cornwall County Council and the Local Health Trust. Devon & Cornwall police

Community Bus and some of the wealth of volunteers for which the village is renowned

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I. ENVIRONMENTAL CHANGES

I1. CURRENT SITUATION

i) The data anticipated under this heading have been subsumed in other categories (in particular in sections D (Landscape), and J (Renewable Energy)).

ii) Where unnecessary change is threatened by unsuitable development, recourse to environmental protection laws such as SSSI, Tree preservation orders may be necessary. The whole parish is within an Area of Great Landscape Value (AGLV)

iii) As Global warming, from whatever cause, takes effect it is probable that the species and habitats found will change in type and in real terms. Already some new maritime species are being found, other species are becoming more common than formerly and others are beginning to disappear.

iv) It is characteristic of the Parish that many Mediterranean and Antipodian species flourish in gardens. This becomes an interesting feature and can be encouraged provided these species do not become invasive.

Exotic Garden Flora

First British Record of Warty Crab Downderry 2005

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I3. ACTION

i) Detail mapping and audit of present conditions are required followed by repetitive monitoring of habitats and indicator species.

ii) Changes due to direct human action should also be carefully studied to mitigate unnecessary damage.

iii) Changes from climate change etc must be recorded.

iv) Information is likely from diverse sources and should be collated.

PARTNERS

Cornwall Wildlife Trust, Caradon Field Club.

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J. RENEWABLE ENERGY

J1. CURRENT SITUATION

i) There are sustainable energy and conservation projects spread across the Parish.

ii) More residents are investing in this method to provide hot water (solar panels have become less costly). Some use of photo-voltaic and small turbine energy generation.

iii) There are several new building projects incorporating a wide range of new energy saving and ecological-friendly building materials.

iv) Among older housing, some residents are using a range of methods to conserve energy and water (e.g. using rainwater or grey water to flush toilets).

v) Some recycled materials are being used from re-used clothing to some construction work.

vi) Caradon Council has brought its fortnightly kerbside recycling scheme to the Parish but it is not available to all, nor used by all.

vii) Waste transfer is only available at a distance of 10+ miles.

viii) There is limited public transport and employment opportunities are often at a distance.

J2. STATEMENT OF NEED

i) Property owners and occupiers must be encouraged to conserve as many resources as possible by reduction, re-use and recycling of materials.

ii) Encouragement and information must be made available to increase energy awareness and the problem of finite resources.

iii) Energy awareness will include knowledge of climate change, exhaustion of fossil fuels, public transport, carbon footprints, increasing energy prices, EU/global directives and treaties.

iv) Resource awareness will include low impact energy generation by sun, wind or water, or recycling, loss of landfill sites, sustainability, EU/global directives and treaties, landfill taxation.

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v) Some of this Parish is low lying and/or coastal and could be subject to flooding or erosion as climate changes.

J3. ACTION

i) Promotion by regular features in Nut Tree and Displays at local (WMC etc) events.

ii) Information by producing printed information pack accessible to residents and by a section on Parish Website giving appropriate links and information on local projects and events. Guidance to help access existing information on National and International websites.

iii) Encouragement and Enabling - this help should cover energy saving (whether used for lighting, heating, cooking, leisure etc), sustainable energy production - passive and active (from direct sunlight, geothermal, wind or water power (river or tidal)), reduction in use of finite natural resources and reduction in waste creation. There should be measurable targets with timescales.

iv) Development. Due regard and advice shall be given to incorporating energy saving processes including recycling of waste materials and/or waste heat as well as passive heating methods, proper insulation and use of other natural resources (e.g. rainwater).

v) Preference should be given to schemes which exceed current minimum standards relating to energy and resource conservation and make provision for future technology e.g CHP (combined heat and power), composting, recycling.

vi) Any sustainable energy schemes implemented in the Parish should have minimal impact on residents and visitors in terms of noise, visual presence (i.e. should be carefully sited and landscaped) in order that 'green' energy can be regarded as favourably as possible. Microgeneration of electricity and local use of marine resources would be acceptable. Giant Wind turbines are not suitable.

vii) Make available details of all practical measures which householders could utilize to minimise their costs and their environmental impact. The Deviock Environmental Group (incorporating the energy group) and other residents to be asked to spread the word on their experiences and (if possible) make their installations available for others to see. Develop an information pack for householders.

viii) Barriers to use (of energy reduction and recycling) to be determined by survey.

ix) Encourage best practice as concept develops nationally.

x) Council officers shall keep abreast of developments in Energy Saving and recycling.

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xi) Recycling - The present kerbside recycling scheme should be extended to a weekly service and include waste packaging materials from businesses. The recycling bins in the centre of Downderry should be kept and extended to include cardboard.

xii) Reduction of waste and food miles – encourage local people to buy unpackaged and locally produced products.

xiii) Support Countywide use of CHP (combined heat and power0 and pollution free incineration (Pyrolysis and gasification not simply mass burn systems).

xiv) Consideration should be given to establishing a Parish Waste Transfer Site for recyclables.

xv) Examine transportation and reduction in car/commercial vehicle use of fossil based fuels. This should have the widest possible brief - e.g. including ideas like 'walking buses' for the school.

PARTNERS

Deviock Parish Council, Caradon District Council, Deviock Parish Environmental Group Group, Nut Tree editorial board.

To some extent recent changes in Government thinking have overtaken these proposals but they should remain in the plan to encourage appropriate local activity

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APPENDIX ONE

IMPORTANT WILDLIFE SITES IN DEVIOCK PARISH

Steve Madge Steveinseawinds@aol.com

NB. I have omitted sites within the boundaries of the Seaton Valley Country Park, although the odd one could have slipped in ie Seaton beach, where something required special comment.

Bake Lakes SX317587 A recently-created series of shallow freshwater lakes for commercial angling. Has been rapidly colonised by waterbirds, including breeding Fulica atra (Coot), Tachybaptus ruficollis (Little Grebe) and Aythya fuligula (Tufted Duck) all of which are rare breeders in Cornwall. Has become nationally famous as a site for rare dragonflies including Anax imperator (Lesser Emperor) and Sympetrum fonscolombei(Red-veined Darter) which now breed regularly. Soon after being declared as probably extinct in Cornwall there have been several sightings of Arvicola terrestris (Water Vole) by anglers.

Bake Wood (south-west end) SX307578 Forestry managed woodland. In valley bottom to north of Hessenford grows localised Arctium lappa (Greater Burdock), the very localised Sorbus torminalis (Wild Service Tree). and below the conifers across the lane Orobanche rapum-genistae (Great Broomrape) grows as a parasite on gorse. Dippers Cinclus cinclus are often seen along this stretch of the Seaton river and no doubt nest under one of the bridges.

Hessenford bridge SX307574 A couple of patches of very localised Ranunculus penicillatus (Stream Water-crowfoot) grow on riverbed by bridge, a localised fern Ceterach officinarum (Rustyback) grows on the bridge.

Keveral Wood SX298557 A forestry area of major importance for both locally and nationally rare butterflies, formerly well managed for butterflies but sympathetic management needs reinstating to save remnants or to allow for species to come in from elsewhere. These include Pyrgus malvae (Grizzled Skipper) last reported 1988, Ladoga camilla (White Admiral) was reported in 1984 (few Cornish records),nationally rare Boloria euphrosyne (Pearl-bordered Fritillary) and nationally very rare Argynns adippe(High Brown Fritillary) last reported 1989. A very localised shrub Berberis vulgaris(Barberry) grows by the rides.

Seaton west car park marsh SX303546 The most important unprotected site in the Parish. This is the undisturbed damp field to the north of the bridge western car-park). It is of considerable wildlife importance, containing a fascinating selection of scarce and rare plants and animals, both on a local and a national

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scale (especially for such a small site). Highlights include one of the UK’s largest and most colourful spiders the beautiful and nationally notable Argiope bruennichi (Wasp Spider) - confined to regions of the Sussex, Hampshire & Dorset coasts and with 3-4 sporadic records from Cornwall, and the very localised cricket Conocephalus discolor(Long-winged Conehead) known from only 5 other sites in mainland Cornwall. Amongst the 12 species of dragonfly recorded there is the locally scarce Orthetrum cancellatum(Black-tailed Skimmer) and Calopteryx splendens. (Banded Demoiselle). The flora of the site is also of interest and includes the declining SW speciality, Parentucellia viscosa(Yellow Bartsia) and the rare hairless variety of Hairy Sedge Carex hirta var sublaevis(known from only one other site in Cornwall). The uniqueness of the site is due to it having been undisturbed for many years and is perhaps a good indication of what the original Seaton marshes were like over 60 years ago when they were drained.

Seaton Beach SX304544 Despite much disturbance remnants of an interesting upper beach flora survive including nationally scarce Erodium moschatum (Musk Storksbill), Polygonum oxyspermum (Ray’s Knotgrass), near the bridge are several patches of the very localised (in Cornwall) Persicaria amphibia (Amphibious Bistort), Glaucium flavum(Yellow Horned Poppy) occasionally appears (there is an extensive area of it about a mile to the west at Millendreath), Raphanus raphanistrum ssp maritimum (Sea Radish) is very local but common here, a single plant of Apium graveolens (Wild Celery) grows at the western end of the sea-wall, on the landward side of the road by the “Downderry” sign a tiny patch of Salvia verbenaca (Clary) grows. Behind the beach cafe an interesting form of Dark Mullein Verbascu`m nigrum variety tomentosum has been known for over a century, varying in abundance from year to year.

Downderry Beach SX313540 This stretch supports a varied upper beach flora depending on extent of storm disruption, Polygonum oxyspermum (Ray’s Knotgrass) is regular, Atriplex glabriuscula (Babington’s Orache) is common and the nationally rare Atriplex laciniata (Frosted Orache) has occasionally appeared in recent years, extensive patches of Lycium chinense (Duke of Argyll’s Tea-tree) grow along the base of the cliff. It is worth bearing in mind that the red data plant Euphorbia peplis (Purple Spurge) was last reported in Britain from the shore here in 1949 and could conceivably reappear under certain conditions.

St Germans Hut SX337539 The highest point on S Cornwall coast, formerly held nationally scarce Vicia lutea (Yellow Vetch) thought lost since last reported 1957 but reported again in 1980s - otherwise confined to the Lizard in Cornwall, also Trifolium glomeratum (Clustered Clover) last reported 1978, known from only 3 other Cornish sites. Nationally rare Orobanche minor ssp maritima (Carrot Broomrape) and Asplenium lanceolatum (Lanceolate Spleenwort) have been found here. On beach below a large clump of Crambe maritima (Sea Kale) thrives and by damp flushes odd plants of localised Samolus valerandi (Brookweed) can be conspicuous.

Cargloth Cliff SX338537 Rabbit-grazed coastal sward opposite ‘Shag Rock’ notable for presence of very local Teesdalia nudicaulis (Shepherd’s Cress) and Hipparchia semele

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(Grayling butterfly) although the latter was last reported in 1975. The adjacent stack The Long Stone (Shag Rock) supports an important breeding colony of Phalacrocorax aristotelis (Shag).

Eglarooze Cliff SX345539 Rabbit-grazed coastal sward ideal for tiny clovers and nationally rare Orobanche minor ssp maritima (Carrot Broomrape), Asplenium lanceolatum (Lanceolate Spleenwort) has been found by a shady stone wall, the two rare Birdsfoot-trefoils Lotus subbiflorus and L. angustissimus are both found on the grassy slopes.

Details of the flora and fauna to be found within the Countryside Park should be added as soon as the information is available

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APPENDIX TWO Archaeological Sites in Deviock Parish

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The plan envisages support for the protection of all currently listed sites of archaeological interest ad the addition of others should they become manifest.

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APPENDIX 3

FACILITIES IN THE PARISH JUNE 2007

There are:-

3 Public Houses 1 Restaurant 3 Cafes 1 Church Hall 2 Village Halls 1 Methodist Church 2 Anglican Churches 1 Senior Citizens Home

10 Bed and Breakfast establishments (approx and variable )

1 Junior School 1 Preschool Group 5 Telephone Kiosks 1 Nature Reserve 1 Breakfast Club

FARMS

Cair Tredis Cargloth Tregunnick Carcoe Treliddon Carracawn Trelowia Deviock Trerieve Lower Deviock Lower Trerieve Eglaroose Treyone Hendra Lower Treyone Intown Triffle Minard Trewall South Bake Struddicks

LAND OWNED BY THE PARISH and other Public or semi- public bodies

Tanver Yate, The Axe Field. And Rocks Nose land owned by Deviock Parish

The Countryside Park, The Memorial Gardens and some of the foreshore owned by Caradon District Council

The Millenium Wood owned by the Woodland Trust

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APPENDICES 4-9

Appendices 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9 are relevant extracts from the Caradon Local Plan

Appendix 4 shows that the whole Parish is within an Area of Great landscape value which should constrain the form of development .In particular it should constrain the urbanisation of the villages by the advent of garden developments. All developments should enable maximum amenity space. All appendices also show the development limits of the villages which are sacrosanct with no development allowable other than for socially acceptable housing.

Appendix 5 shows Local Plan Designations CNCS (Cornwall Nature Conservation Sites).

Appendix 7 shows that the coastal strip of Downderry & Seaton could be subject to marine erosion. Much of this area is already protected by private and public sea defences but more needs to be done. Controlled retreat is not a sensible option.

Appendix 6 shows the conservation area of Hessenford and the other village development boundaries referred to in earlier text.

Appendix 8 shows the important footpath network as featured on the definitive map. There is a more detailed plan, which was submitted to the Countryside Commission, showing future footpath possibilities to create links, networks and circular routes. The long distance coastal path is available to local people as well as tourists and hikers.

Appendix 9 shows the area of the Local Nature Reserve in the Seaton Valley.

Appendix 10 is a composite map showing all the Local Plan designations.

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APPENDIX 4

APPENDIX 5

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APPENDIX 6

APPENDIX 7

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APPENDIX 8

APPENDIX 9

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APPENDIX 10

Final Note and acknowledgement

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This plan has been produced with the assistance and co-operation of numerous Parishioners. These folk, too many to name, are cordially thanked for their various input.

For illustrations we have incorporated photographs produced by Ron Daniel, John Pitt and Maureen Stangroom to whom we offer thanks.

Full sized copies of plans and maps included in this document can be viewed at either the Parish Office or Caradon District Council offices.

When the plan has been accepted by the District Council it will be placed on the Parish Website (www.deviockparish.org.uk) as the first step towards a continuing updating process.

Recent announcements indicate the change in Cornwall to a Unitary Authority in 2009. All references to the Caradon District Council and the Cornwall County Council will have, in the fullness of time, to be appropriately amended.