Blogging Woolf was part of a pilgrimage to Talland House in 2004. This photo depicts the front right corner of the home.

In mid-January, we reported on the most recent plan to construct a multi-million dollar flat project that would obstruct the view of the Cornwall coast and Godrevy Lighthouse from Talland House in St. Ives, Cornwall, the setting and inspiration for Virginia Woolf’s 1927 novel To the Lighthouse. We are sad to report that the plan is moving ahead, according to the Virginia Woolf Society of Great Britain.

Below is the text of a March 13 message sent by the Virginia Woolf Society of Great Britain, which helped lead the resistance effort.

Talland House planning update

”It is with regret that we report the decision of the Planning Committee of Cornwall Council this week to allow the planning application for a building in front of Talland
House in St Ives to go ahead.

“There were over 130 objections to the plan, including a handwritten letter from our President Dame Eileen Atkins. The Talland House Group, including the VWSGB and led by Polly Carter, the heritage gardener at Talland House, employed a KC who raised a legal challenge to the lawfulness of the application.

“The particular points brought by our Counsel remain unaddressed by Cornwall

Godrevy Lighthouse in St. Ives, Cornwall

Council’s legal department. They responded, but not to the points raised. Sadly, the developer can go ahead and build what will irrevocably destroy the To the Lighthouse view. BBC Cornwall supported our campaign.

“We are considering opening this up to judicial review and are exploring other options. The Talland House Group is to be formalised, and may have a website and events that celebrate the view and its importance to Virginia Woolf and her works.

“Time will be needed to re-focus our strategy, but we hope to issue more guidance as to how you can further support the campaign and all that Talland House stands for.

Our thanks to everyone who contributed to the campaign against this development, and we will keep you updated. This story may not be over yet!”