CPRE Sussex defends Wealden countryside from major extension of Hailsham

Up to 280 dwellings proposed in countryside north of Mill Lane and west of Grove Hill, Hellingly.

Outline planning application WD/2026/1679/MAO (with all matters reserved except the means of access) is for the erection of up to 280 dwellings including affordable housing, together with the formation of a new access and reconfiguration at Mill Lane, formal and informal open space, landscape planting, drainage infrastructure and associated works.

CPRE Sussex asks that approval be refused because:

1. it would be a major urban extension of Hailsham on a site not designated for development

2. The site is not a sustainable development site, requiring driving to facilities. and with no indication that local infrastructure can meet the extra demands for GPs, schools, nurseries, public transport, or water.

3  It would have a severe effect on the local rural character, including listed buildings and conservation area.

4 Traffic problems would arise because Mill Lane is an old single track route unsuitable as a busy link road, Also the other local road, Grove Hill, is not suitable for heavy traffic flows. The local roads cannot safely cope with any further increases in traffic.

5 There are already severe drainage issues here, with the Cuckmere flooding affecting roads and properties. The proposed development would increase total runoff. The existing sewerage network cannot apparently cope with present volumes.

6 The site is a suitable environment for a range of wildlife. Lights, sounds, cats and dogs and traffic will all affect wildlife, as will the loss of trees, shrubs and farmland which provide food and shelter for wildlife.

Overall this application is for too large a development on a site that is really best kept as the setting for the existing listed buildings and the conservation area.

Read full CPRE Sussex objection: CPRE Mill Lane letter

Also read CPRE Sussex objection to new access road to the site: www.cpresussex.org.uk/news/cpre-sussex-stands-up-for-scenic-landscape-at-hellingly/