'The proposal will bring about social and economic benefits' - 13 new homes approved for Sussex village

The application from Concept Developments for land next to Cookhams, in Top Road, was given the nod during a meeting of the planning committee on Thursday (June 15). The development will include a new access onto Top Road and there will be an open space on the southern end of the site, for use by the community, with a new public footpath along the western boundary and a circular path through the wooded area.

A spokeswoman for the applicant said: “The proposal will bring about social and economic benefits through the delivery of 13 additional dwellings and would result in an increase in local spending in the community.”

She added: “The development is appropriate in terms of its design and scale and is in keeping with the local area, preserving the character of the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.”

The council received four objections to the plans, with concerns raised including increased traffic and the strain on local infrastructure.

The site was allocated in the West Hoathley Local Plan for a residential development of around 16 homes.

Four of the new houses will be classed as affordable.

To view the application, log on to pa.midsussex.gov.uk and search for DM/22/1384.