A BUSINESS body in Newquay has launched a campaign calling on the council to find an alternative location for its care home plans.

Newquay BID has started a petition following Cornwall Council looking at the potential of relocating Penberthy Care Home on Mount Wise to Tregunnel Hill car park following concerns it would be detrimental to the town’s trade.

BID manager Mark Warren said: “Newquay BID, representing the heart of our local businesses and residents, is troubled by the impending decision of Cornwall Council to build a care home on Tregunnel Hill car park.

“This decision was made without adequate consultation with the people who would be most affected, the business community of Newquay and its residents.

“This car park is a vital asset to our town, alleviating congestion and providing much-needed parking space for businesses, tourists, and locals alike.

“The proposed development threatens to remove essential parking spaces that are crucial for the vitality and economic well-being of Newquay.

“Businesses will suffer due to reduced footfall, leading to potential loss of income and harming the community’s livelihood.

“Residents will also face increased parking issues, leading to further congestion in an already busy town centre.

“We face the overdevelopment of our town by Cornwall Council at the expense of our business and residence, and this must stop.

“We acknowledge the importance of care homes, but there are more feasible options that Cornwall Council ought to consider.

“Utilising sites outside the town centre or repurposing derelict buildings around the town that meet the needs of vulnerable residents without sacrificing the needs of the entire community.

“Given that Cornwall Council has options, compulsory purchase orders on unused or derelict land could be a viable alternative, minimising negative impacts.

“Decisions like these must factor in the well-being of all involved, balancing care needs with community needs.”

The petition can be found at https://www.change.org/p/stop-newquay-losing-more-parking-spaces?