Plans to develop what would have been one of England’s largest crematoriums in Cornwall have been quashed by the High Court.
Cornwall Council received several objections to plans for Atlantic View Crematorium but granted planning permission for the 5.8ha site in December last year.
Judge Duncan Ouseley described the proposal as ‘controversial and unusual’.
It was put forward by the Atlantic View Crematorium Consortium, which argued that people in north Cornwall and Devon have to travel long distances to reach a crematorium.
At the Royal Courts of Justice last week, objectors argued against the need for and viability of the crematorium and said there were errors in a council officer’s report.
They also argued that the natural environment, tourism, and views from private properties, including holiday lets, would be adversely affected.
Quashing the plans, Judge Ouseley said ‘overall serious errors’ were made in the consideration of the impact on business and tourism and the council’s report was ‘significantly misleading’ in relation to the benefits of reduced travel times and emissions reductions.
A Cornwall Council spokesperson said: ‘Whilst the council is disappointed with the outcome, at this stage we accept the court’s judgement as it is not in the public interest to challenge the matter further.’
