Controversial plans for supported living development in Peacehaven to go before councillors
The scheme has seen objections raised by a number of local residents, including through a petition signed by 98 people
Controversial proposals for a housing and supported living development in Peacehaven are due to go in front of Lewes planners next week.
On Wednesday (October 11), Lewes District Council’s planning committee is due to consider an application seeking permission to build a total of 32 new homes on land to the south of South Coast Road.
The scheme, submitted by JKC Management, would be a mix of 10 private houses and 22-unit apartment building, which the developer says will “ideally” become a supported-living complex for adults with learning disabilities.
While recommended for approval by planning officers, the scheme has seen objections raised by a number of local residents, including through a petition signed by 98 people.
The petition reads: “At its proposed height of four-stories the site will be over developed and negatively impact the adjacent neighbourhoods. With a number of properties becoming overlooked and losing their privacy from both a visual and audible perspective.”
It continues: “Access to the A259 from local closes, avenues and the Highway is a problem and getting worse due to traffic. This proposal could negatively impact highway safety.
“The amount of traffic (and air pollution) on the A259 coast road is also already too high, especially at peak times, and this development will add to the problem significantly.”
Objectors, which include Peacehaven Town Council, have also raised concerns about the site being overdeveloped and the ‘lack of clarity’ around whether the flats will be used for supported-living.
Several other elements of the scheme also remain uncertain at this stage, as negotiations on some elements have not yet concluded between the council and developer. These include the number of affordable homes to be included on the site and the developer’s contribution to coastal defences.
Planning officers say these matters can be resolved following a committee decision, but prior to planning permission being granted.
In a report recommending approval, planning officers say the scheme would make good use of the land and provide much-needed housing.
The report reads: “It is considered that the proposed development would deliver significant social and economic enhancements through the comprehensive redevelopment of the site.
“Once the applicant has demonstrated a method of drainage that is supported by ESCC SuDS team and that a policy compliant number of affordable units can be delivered then it is recommended the application be delegated to Head of Planning to approve and issue the decision subject to section 106 legal agreement and conditions
“If the S106 is not substantially completed within three months, then the application be refused on the lack of certainty on the infrastructure needed to support/mitigate the development.”
The site had previously been occupied by a motel, restaurant and filling station, but has been empty since 2010 when these structures were demolished.
For further information see application reference LW/23/0276 on the Lewes District Council website.