PLANS to transform a long-neglected site behind Liskeard’s historic Fountain Inn into 13 new homes have been approved by Cornwall Council.

The redevelopment of land between Greenbank Road and Barras Place has secured both planning permission and listed building consent, paving the way for a major transformation.

The scheme will see ageing buildings behind the former pub demolished, sections of stone boundary wall removed and 13 new properties built.

The development will comprise nine two-bedroom homes and four three-bedroom properties, alongside 27 parking spaces, private outdoor areas and new landscaping.

The approval marks a significant step towards bringing the underused site back into use, adding housing in a central Liskeard location close to shops, services and public transport.

The plans also carry an important heritage dimension. The site sits alongside the Grade II-listed Fountain Inn and partly within Liskeard Conservation Area, requiring the redevelopment to respect the town’s historic character.

Listed building consent covers demolition of buildings behind the inn and alterations to the stone boundary wall.

The proposals have been revised considerably following discussions with Cornwall Council. An earlier scheme considered around 20 homes, before being reduced to 16 and then 13 to address concerns about the site’s constraints and relationship with surrounding historic buildings.

The final design includes homes facing Greenbank Road, with natural stone incorporated into parts of the development to help the properties blend into the conservation area.

The site has a lengthy planning history, with earlier housing proposals refused in 2007 and 2009. Permission was later granted to convert the Fountain Inn into three residential apartments, paving the way for the latest plans.

Applicants say the redevelopment will provide homes while improving the appearance of an untidy, underused parcel of land. The plans also include landscaping and surface water management, alongside conditions covering potential contamination, trees and wildlife.

Find out about planning applications that affect you by visiting the Public Notice Portal.

The application was submitted on behalf of Mr and Mrs R J Peake and Mrs N A Brenton in March 2025.