PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT UPDATE

from Horam & Vines Cross Village Diary

SUSSEX FREE RANGE EGGS

Last month, we highlighted the opportunity that a Horam Neighbourhood Plan will give the residents of Horam Parish to have to a bigger say in what happens. At that time a draft Neighbourhood Plan1 was being consulted on. We can now update on the headline results of that consultation:

• A total of 207 responses were received to the questionnaire survey, with a further eleven letter/email responses, mainly from statutory bodies and developers

• Of those who answered the question on the survey, around 90% indicated that they were residents of the Parish

• On average, discounting those who neither agreed nor disagreed, all policies received a 98% response in agreement or strong agreement

• Many people commented on the need to retain and where possible enhance the quality of the countryside and rural character of the Parish

• There are concerns about the capacity of infrastructure to support development

Although the scale and location of further housing is not covered by the Neighbourhood Plan, many people still expressed fears about more housing in Horam on local character - which we hope will be recognised by Wealden District Council in its new Local Plan.

A full report on the results of the consultation will be published on the Horam Parish Council website shortly. Once all responses have been considered, a final draft Neighbourhood Plan will be submitted to Wealden District Council, which will then invite further representations and arrange for an independent examination. ------------------------------------------------------------

In terms of development activity, the last month has seen an appeal heard against the refusal of an application for the demolition of Linda House, Little London Road, Horam and erection of 34 dwellings. (WDC reference WD/2021/2458/ MAJ) The Parish Council was among the objectors appearing. A decision by the Planning Inspector is awaited.

Also, an application has been made seeking approval of the details for 38 dwellings on land at Old Orchard House on the south side of Horebeech Lane, which already has ‘outline’ (in principle) permission. (WDC ref. WD/2023/1585/MRM) The closing date for comments is 4th August.

David Marlow & Sue Lane (HNP Steering Group members)

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