Decision Pending on Proposals for 400 New Homes

Proposals for the construction of as many as 400 residential units in Newhaven are scheduled for review by Lewes councillors. The planning committee of Lewes District Council is expected to make a decision on Wednesday regarding the approval of preliminary plans for a development project at Harbour Heights. This project encompasses the demolition and subsequent redevelopment of the Quarry Road Industrial Estate, alongside proposals for residential construction on undeveloped land situated to its west. The 20-hectare (49-acre) parcel of land, located between Gibbon Road and Court Farm Road, has been designated for a mixed-use development within the framework of the Lewes Local Plan. According to planning officers, the site’s allocation significantly supports the scheme; however, specific conditions would be necessary to mitigate identified concerns, especially those related to flooding and drainage. A spokesperson for the council stated that the development is anticipated to “provide a significant benefit, particularly through the delivery of new housing and modern commercial space”. The application, lodged by Trafalgar Group Ltd, requests only outline permission, meaning all aspects apart from access will necessitate additional planning approval at a subsequent phase. This preliminary permission would encompass the establishment of two access points via Quarry Road and Court Farm Road, along with conceptual approval for constructing up to 400 residences and developing 1,477 sq m (15,898.3 sq ft) of commercial area. Notwithstanding its size, the project is not projected to incorporate any affordable housing, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service. A report presented to the committee attributed this to the “abnormal costs” linked to the site, stemming from its topography and the presence of contaminated land.