Carbis Bay Hotel Bold Bid to Keep Some of Illegal Structure

The lavish Carbis Bay Hotel, which once hosted global dignitaries during the G7 summit in Cornwall, is making a daring move to preserve parts of an unauthorised construction initially erected for the event.

The Hotel’s Bold Application

The luxurious Carbis Bay Hotel, nestled near the charming St Ives, has submitted a bold application to secure the future of select components from this controversial construction.

A Risky Removal Debate

The hotel is putting forth a compelling argument, asserting that the removal of concrete slabs and foundations poses a grave risk of triggering a landslide, thereby endangering the safety of beachgoers and adventurers exploring the nearby South West Coastal Path along Carbis Bay.

An Unconventional Proposal

Now, the hotel, located along the famed Beach Road, has formally approached Cornwall Council’s planning department with an intriguing proposition: “habitat enhancement and retention of concrete structures, section of the post and wire fence on land to the west of the hotel, tarmac service access track, and stone terracing to the south of the hotel, along with the erection of a gated access.”. The planning application can be found on Cornwall Councils planning portal application PA23/10011.

Protests and Controversy

The construction of these unauthorised meeting rooms overlooking the Carbis Bay beach prompted significant public outcry and protests when the hotel’s owner pushed forward with the audacious project, just in time for the high-profile G7 summit. Notable international leaders, such as former US President Joe Biden, former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson, France’s charismatic Emmanuel Macron, and Germany’s esteemed Angela Merkel, graced this remarkable event with their presence.

Council’s Firm Stand

Cornwall Council had previously issued a stern enforcement notice mandating the removal of these unconventional pods and meeting rooms, which included imposing concrete footings, in order to restore the site to its original condition.

A Protective Measure for the Beach

However, in a surprising turn of events, the hotel now seeks to retain certain aspects of this contested construction as a protective measure for the beach, shielding it from potential rockfall hazards.

Awaiting the Verdict

The ultimate decision regarding this daring application will rest in the hands of either Cornwall Council’s planning department.
View the application on Cornwall Councils Planning website.

Image: Carbis Bay Hotel/ LDA Design