AN East Cornwall village association is looking into the possibility of the community purchasing land containing an old mine to keep peace of mind that the area will not be developed.

After learning that the former Luckett Mine site was put up for sale as part of the Duchy of Cornwall's plan to sell off unproductive land, Luckett Village Association (LVA), which claims to represent 90% of the households in the village, has decided to look into the possibility of the community buying the land.

Following a recent meeting of the LVA, two representatives were asked to approach the Duchy to see if it would consider selling the mine site to the community.

The representatives put forward their reasons to the Duchy for wanting to purchase the land, including loss of amenity for dog walking and children's play area if it was built on, house devaluation, threat to historical area of interest and health concerns if settled arsenic spoil was disturbed by development, as well as other worries.

The Duchy accepted the representatives' concerns and agreed to postpone the auction, due to take place tomorrow (Friday), while the Luckett community constructed an offer.

A spokesman for the Duchy was unavailable for comment as the Times went to press.

Secretary of the Luckett Village Association John Prescott said: 'I can confirm that the LVA has met to discuss the purchase of the mine and that a number of individuals have expressed an interest in putting together a bid.

'If the bid is successful, the mine will not be bought by LVA but possibly by a private limited company set up by those Luckett residents involved.

'The LVA asked two residents to meet the Duchy land steward to discuss a possible purchase. They have done so and the Duchy has indicated that it could entertain a private bid.

'It is very early days yet and we will know more in a few weeks time.'

The former mine site comprises around 20 acres of woodland and open space and still retains the historical mining chimney stack.

The site was classed as a scheduled ancient monument as of last year.