In November 2008 Mid Sussex District Council granted planning permission for 120 new homes behind Newton Road. In doing so, they reversed a decision to refuse planning permission that was barely five months old. This insensitive and illogical action threatens Lindfield’s public infrastructure, road safety and general quality of life.

Now, as part of its “core strategy” for housing development, MSDC has proposed at least a further 700 homes to be built in the Gravelye Lane – Scamps Hill area. Combined with the Newton Road development, this would add nearly 2,000 residents – a 40% increase in Lindfield’s population – to the village’s already overloaded infrastructure. 1,100 additional cars would have predictable consequences for traffic congestion, pollution and the safety of our streets.

In addition to this, MSDC is also proposing 55 new homes on the land east of Portsmouth Wood Close. The council has postponed its vote on the “core strategy” several times, and is now unlikely to act before the general election in spring 2010. The threat of course remains. More than 800 Lindfield residents have already objected in writing to the council. If you have not already done so but would like to, you may wish to consider the following factors in composing your letter:
TRAFFIC: The substantial increase in traffic movements would greatly worsen the existing congestion in Lindfield. Road safety would therefore be compromised, especially in the High Street, Lewes Road and in adjacent residential roads already endangered by “rat running”.
SCHOOLS: Local schools are already under considerable pressure to provide enough places for existing residents – even before the impact of the Newton Rd. Development.
MEDICAL FACILITIES: The Lindfield Medical Centre is already oversubscribed and has been for some years.
WATER AND SEWAGE: Local capacity is already under severe pressure, again even before the impact of the Newton Road development.
ENVIRONMENT: Aggravated traffic congestion would increase pollution significantly and make the village environment less healthy.
For further information please contact the
Lindfield Preservation Society on 482538 or 483367
ACT NOW TO PROTECT YOUR VILLAGE