Development in ‘strategic gap’ between Chichester and Lavant proposed

‘Outrageous’ housing development proposals in the ‘strategic gap’ between Chichester and Lavant have been strongly opposed by residents.
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The Berkeley Group wants outline planning permission to build 140 homes on land just off Lavant Road opposite the junction with Hunters Race south of Raughmere Drive.

According to the application: “Raughmere Meadows can provide a mix of high quality, sustainable homes for local people, showcasing the very best of local vernacular architecture and materials.

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“The development would be landscape-led which would preserve the character of the local area and provide a wealth of green space for people to enjoy and where nature can thrive. Central to the proposal is the creation of a 25-acre country park and other public spaces which will provide a valuable local amenity, enhance biodiversity and protect in perpetuity the separation of Lavant and Chichester.”

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The site was previously promoted by Taylor Wimpey, whose application for 92 homes was refused in 2013. An appeal was dismissed by a planning inspector the next year.

But the application notes how Chichester’s local plan is out of date and the area is facing a shortfall against its housing requirements.

A number of objections to the development have been lodged with the district council.

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One wrote: “This land is crucial to the space between the city and the village of Lavant, sometimes referred to as ‘the strategic gap’. It allows a separation of the two communities, ensuring that they each maintain their unique character.

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“It is a part of the very attractive English landscape of the area, on the edge of the national park. This land is beside the main route into Chichester from the north, which at present provides the most appealing gateway to the city. A housing estate on this land would seriously compromise the beauty and character of the area, and in particular the independent nature of Lavant village.”

Another said: “This is an outrageous attempt to fill the Lavant Gap and to erect another development of which there is a glut and oversupply of housing in and around Chichester. This will be a further blight on what is an increasingly diminishing area of outstanding natural beauty.”

Another wrote: “The entire Chichester road system is already gridlocked and these proposed 140 dwellings will further exacerbate the situation, adding to already significant housing developments, in Chichester district, in the course of construction.”

To comment on the application visit www.chichester/gov.uk/planning using code 20/02675/OUT.

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