Planning inspector approves 150 homes in Lewes appeal

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 8 Oct, 15:19 · Archive

A planning inspector has approved up to 150 new homes in Wivelsfield Green despite Lewes councillors' objections.

A planning inspector has approved Taylor Wimpey UK Ltd's proposals for up to 150 homes on land south of Green Road in Wivelsfield Green, overturning Lewes District Council's objections. The council had argued the scheme should be refused due to potential harm to the character of the area and a formally-designated Local Green Space.

The inspector acknowledged the development would "permanently alter" the area and cause harm to its character. However, the inspector concluded that "the substantial weight that I have attributed to the council's housing land shortfall and underdelivery of affordable housing" meant the benefits of granting permission would not be substantially outweighed by adverse effects. The inspector granted outline planning permission and ordered the council to pay part of the developer's appeal costs, limited to costs incurred on the locational issue which the council had dropped shortly before the appeal hearing.

The decision has been met with disappointment from local councillors.

How it is being reported

• 'Devastation' as inspector allows 150 new homes in planning appealLewes councillors have hit out at an appeal decision on a major housing development in Wivelsfield Green.The Argus · 8 Oct, 14:15
• Lewes councillors hit out at major housing development appeal decisionLewes councillors have hit out at an appeal decision on a major housing development in Wivelsfield Green.Chichester Observer · 7 Oct, 12:23

In this story: Lewes District Council · Taylor Wimpey UK Ltd · Wivelsfield Green · Lewes

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