Eco-Homes Planned for Cornish Surf Village Despite Resident Outcry

In November 2025, Cornwall Council granted conditional planning permission for a major expansion of the Towan Valley Resorts in the picturesque Cornish village of Porthtowan. The development will see 16 new high-end eco-holiday homes added to the existing 26 cottages on the site, bringing the total number of eco-lodges to 44.

The plans have sparked outrage among Porthtowan residents, who warn the development will "turn the valley into a concrete jungle" and damage the area's natural beauty. Locals have raised concerns over the increased traffic, potential harm to wildlife like owls, birds, and endangered bats, as well as issues with the village's already strained sewage infrastructure.

Objectors argue that Porthtowan already has too many holiday homes, with many sitting empty for most of the year, and that the area needs more affordable housing for locals rather than additional tourist accommodations. However, the resort's CEO, Andrew Clark, says the expansion will create both short-term and long-term jobs, while also developing public spaces for the local community.

Despite the overwhelming opposition, with all but one of the 50 public comments submitted opposing the plans, Cornwall Council has granted conditional approval for the development to proceed. The resort will now need to address several requirements, including preparing a habitat management plan and assessing the risks posed by any site contamination, before construction can begin.