Controversial housing plan set to be decided

The 102 dwelling proposal that has been met with great opposition by residents and the ‘Stop Storrington Sprawl’ group will be considered at the development committee meeting at Park North on Tuesday, July 16.

At a public meeting held at Rydon Community College on June 28 that saw more than 350 residents in attendance, it was announced by leader of the district council, Ray Dawe, that the planning officer had recommended refusal of the application.

He said: “Two primary reasons given is that there are too many houses and it’s out of keeping.

“They will now go to the planning committee, of which I’m a member, and they will decide whether to accept the recommendation or not.”

Member of Stop Storrington Sprawl Howard Brunt said: “But assuming that the district council turn the application down we still have the inspectorate in Bristol to deal with when Wates, almost certainly, go to appeal.”

Residents are expected to attend the council meeting to hear the planning committee and voice their own opinions.

Wates Development originally revealed its plans for 130 homes at an exhibition for residents in March.

The green field development would be located north of South Wood, Melton Drive, and offer 40 per cent affordable housing.

It is one of a number of developments underway or proposed for the Storrington area, which already suffers from traffic congestion and air quality problems.

The planning meeting will take place Tuesday, July 16, 2pm, at the Council Chamber, Park North, Horsham.