Councillors To Decide On Controversial Ringmer Housing Plans

A decision is due on plans for a controversial 140-home development in a rural part of East Sussex.

Lewes District Council will consider an outline application to build the homes on land at Howells Bank Farm, off Broyle Lane in Ringmer, at a meeting on 15 April.

The proposal, put forward by Catesby Strategic Land, is seeking approval in principle for housing on the site.

The scheme has sparked significant local opposition, with 583 letters of objection submitted and a petition signed by 127 people.

Concerns include the impact on the area’s character, increased pressure on infrastructure and the potential loss of the green gap between Broyle Side and Ringmer.

Ringmer Parish Council has raised strong objections, arguing the development would be out of keeping with the area and highlighting concerns over traffic at Earwig Corner, a junction with a history of serious incidents.

It has also called for sewage works at Neaves Lane to be upgraded before any major development goes ahead.

Despite this, planning officers have recommended the application for approval, citing a shortage of housing supply across the district.

Highway authorities have not objected to the plans, subject to conditions, and say traffic at Earwig Corner can be managed through its existing system.

Officers have also proposed a condition to ensure no homes are occupied until any necessary improvements to sewer infrastructure have been completed.