‘Strongest sense of disgust’ at plans to build 35 homes in Fishbourne

Those were the words of a concerned resident following plans to build 35 dwellings at Bethwines Farm in Fishbourne, which have received more than 140 official objections.

An application (19/03141/FUL) was submitted by Fishbourne Developments Limited in December, requesting the construction of 35 affordable homes for first-time buyers at the land south of Ivy Lodge, Blackboy Lane. Read more here

‘Once it’s gone, it’s gone forever’, is now the message from the Fishbourne community.

Rachel Kingswell, of Blackboy Lane, said: “Please help us stop this ludicrous planning application on Bethwines Farm. As well as listening to the consultants and experts who are opposing this application, the council must listen to those that live and have lived here, those that experience the already existing problems and those who can see the huge potential irreparable future ones if this application is granted.”

Fishbourne Parish Council lodged an ‘initial objection’ to the proposals before holding a public meeting where residents, including a 13-year-old schoolboy, raised concerns.

Concerns were expressed about whether the development proposal was of the right type, in the right place and at the right time.
It was also argued that the development ‘should not be considered’ until after the parish council submits its neighbourhood plan.

One resident said there is the ‘strongest sense of disgust’, adding; “The infrastructure is at breaking point. The lane and surrounding roads are already dangerous rat-runs [and] accidents just waiting to happen.
“Drainage/sewage inadequacies could bring pollution issues and flooding is a major concern.
“With currently over 110 objections on the Chichester District Council’s planning application website you can see the upset, anger and most importantly the credible reasons as to why the community feel that this planning application should not be granted.”

The homes, which are aimed at people ‘whose needs are not met by the market’, would include associated access, parking, for cars and bikes, landscaping and infrastructure.

The planning statement read: “The proposals provide much needed affordable housing for first time buyers in the district. The government’s objective is to significantly boost the supply of housing to meet the housing needs of different groups in the community including those that require affordable housing.

“The proposed development will help to meet those housing needs in Chichester which is renowned for being relatively unaffordable.”

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