Traveller Site Plans Deferred Over Drainage Concerns In Henfield

Plans for four gypsy and traveller pitches in Henfield have been deferred following concerns about drainage.

Horsham District Council’s planning committee discussed the proposal for land at The Slips on West End Lane on April 28.

Objectors argued the development conflicted with the Henfield Neighbourhood Plan due to its location outside the built-up area boundary.

However, planning officers advised that neighbourhood plans are largely silent on gypsy and traveller sites.

Councillors also raised concerns about flooding, drainage, road safety on the narrow lane, the impact on wildlife, and the number of similar pitches already approved locally.

The council has approved 34 pitches across the district over the past year, including three in Henfield, but needs to deliver 61 within the first five years of its emerging Local Plan to 2028.

A current shortfall means planning rules weigh more heavily in favour of such applications.

A vote on the proposal was tied, leading the committee to defer a decision until further details on drainage and wastewater disposal are provided.

Two other applications for traveller pitches in Woodmancote and Pulborough were also postponed for consideration at a later date.