Persimmon Homes Cornwall and West Devon have unveiled fresh plans for a major new neighbourhood in St Austell – a scheme the developer says could help ease one of the longest housing waiting lists in Britain.

If approved, the outline application would establish the principle of development for up to 325 homes at Gewan’s Farm, allowing more detailed proposals to come forward.

Persimmon says it carried out extensive engagement ahead of the submission, working with Cornwall Council, its design review panel, planning committee members, consultees and St Austell Town Council, as well as holding a public consultation.

According to the housebuilder, 25 per cent of the homes would be transferred to a local housing association to help “lower the local housing waiting list which, at over 25,000 households, is one of Britain’s longest.”

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The developer says the scheme has been designed with nature in mind, retaining existing trees and hedgerows and introducing new planting to create a softer landscape. Ecological features include a sustainable drainage system, wildlife corridors and a minimum 10 per cent biodiversity net gain, alongside 15 per cent canopy cover and a community orchard.

A significant proportion of the land would be set aside for high‑quality green infrastructure, including ecological enhancement areas, central and country parks, teenage recreation space, and a mix of equipped, natural and accessible play areas.

The St Austell proposal follows Persimmon’s recent application for up to 300 homes in Saltash, while the company continues to build in Bodmin, Falmouth, Helston and Newquay.

Persimmon Homes Cornwall & West Devon managing director Andy Hill said: “We’re very pleased to be bringing forward this outline application to bring 325 new homes to St Austell, meeting a variety of housing with an ambitious vision that has nature at its heart.

“Persimmon has taken great care to ensure that the scheme would slot in nicely with existing development and travel connections, ensuring this feels like a garden village in St Austell.

“We will continue to work closely with a number of authorities and stakeholders so we can get planning consent and invest millions of pounds in the local infrastructure to the benefit of our potential customers and existing residents alike.”