A coastal village with a “desperate need” for affordable housing for locals will get more than 80 new houses after a proposal was approved by Cornwall Council’s planning department.

Under delegated powers, planning officers agreed that the 81 houses would help the housing situation in St Merryn, near Padstow. The properties – 45 of which are classed as affordable – will be built on 3.8-hectares of land south east of St Merryn Park.

A supporting statement by Situ8 planning consultancy on behalf of applicant Sue Walters, when the plan was submitted, said: “Due to the housing crisis and the absolute desperate need for affordable homes in the St Merryn parish we are able to bring forward this application for an affordable housing development that supports the provision of much needed homes in this parish. We believe that the proposal will significantly support the demand for homes for local people.

“The site lies between two densely developed residential and holiday developments, St Merryn Park and Atlantic Bays. St Merryn Park provides essential services and facilities that most traditional villages do not provide. The facilities include, bar/restaurant, hairdressers, convenience store and there is a nearby bus stop with regular services to other settlements in the locality.”

The HomeChoice housing register in St Merryn parish at the time of the application showed that 69 households needed affordable accommodation. The 45 affordable homes will be a mix of 70 per cent rented and 30 per cent for sale.

The application drew over 60 public comments on Cornwall Council’s planning portal. The vast majority supported the development citing a desperate need for housing for locals. However, there were a number of people who opposed the plan, believing the houses were in the wrong location.

Stephen Rushworth, who represents Padstow at Cornwall Council, welcomed the news as he’s been pressing for more affordable homes in the area since he became a councillor. He said: “Eighty per cent of people who have commented are in favour and the parish council has been 100 per cent behind this plan. It’s very welcome as most local people can’t afford the prices that houses sell for in St Merryn.”