Newquay Businesses Fight Parking Plan for New Care Home

Parking Spaces at Risk as Care Home Relocation Moves Forward

Newquay’s business community is raising the alarm over a significant reduction in town centre parking that could accompany the relocation of Penberthy Care Home from Mount Wise to Tregunnel Hill car park. The proposal, put forward by Cornwall Council, would result in the loss of additional parking spaces at a venue already stretched by previous developments.

The situation has escalated following the installation of 18 SoloHaus homeless accommodation pods at Tregunnel Hill in 2024, which already claimed 95 car park spaces. Now, with the potential care home development, local businesses fear further restrictions on visitor access during a critical period when Newquay is working to establish itself as a year-round destination rather than a seasonal tourist spot.

Mark Warren, manager of Newquay Business Improvement District, emphasises that while the care facility itself is needed to serve vulnerable residents, the process has created frustration across the local business community. The concern isn’t simply about numbers—it’s about accessibility and the ability for visitors to easily reach shops, restaurants, and attractions throughout the town.

Community Leaders Demand Earlier Input on Major Decisions

A central grievance emerging from local business leaders and residents involves the timing and transparency of consultation. According to Newquay BID, major decisions affecting the town are often announced when discussions have already reached advanced stages, leaving community stakeholders feeling excluded rather than engaged.

Warren articulates a widespread frustration: “Consultation should begin with those most affected, not after decisions have effectively been made elsewhere.” This sentiment reflects a broader pattern where businesses, residents, and community organisations learn about proposals through formal announcements rather than early-stage dialogue.

The BID met with Cornwall Council’s cabinet member for transport, Councillor Dan Rogerson, to voice these concerns. While the meeting was described as constructive, many locals worry the decision-making process has already progressed too far for meaningful community input. As Newquay continues transforming itself into an attractive year-round destination—much like the welcoming atmosphere found when you go to Newquay during shoulder seasons—parking availability becomes increasingly critical for supporting this vision and allowing visitors to enjoy everything from Fistral Beach to local shops.

Parking Demand Is No Longer Seasonal, Warn Business Leaders

One argument proposed by development planners suggests parking pressure is limited to peak summer months. However, local business leaders strongly dispute this characterisation, pointing to their direct experience of consistent demand throughout the year.

During the May Bank Holiday weekend—traditionally considered a shoulder season—Tregunnel Hill car park regularly operated at full capacity, according to observations by Newquay BID staff. This pattern contradicts assumptions that parking is only critical during July and August, reflecting the town’s successful efforts to attract visitors across all seasons.

Newquay has invested significantly in becoming a vibrant, year-round destination. Increased off-season activity, growing tourism during quieter months, and expanded local events now mean parking demand extends well beyond traditional summer holidays. For families seeking dog friendly accommodation in Newquay or visitors planning day trips to experience Fistral Beach and local attractions, reliable parking access is essential infrastructure.

Business leaders stress that removing parking spaces during this growth phase could undermine years of investment in diversifying Newquay’s economy. When visitors struggle to find parking, they may choose alternative destinations, directly impacting local retail, hospitality, and tourism sectors already navigating significant economic pressures.

Source: Anger over proposed loss of vital car park spaces to care home plan