BUILDING work is set to begin on a new development of 600 homes near a football training ground.

Cala Homes acquired the land in Mash Barn Lane in Lancing this week for the scheme, which will transform the area around Brighton and Hove Albion training ground into a collection of one and two bedroom apartments and two to five bedroom homes.

Planning was approved in February for the mixed-use development, which will also include a 28 hectare country park, land for a new primary school and an Ikea store.

Construction

Cala Homes has developed the scheme in collaboration with New Monks Farm Ltd, and construction began earlier this year on the side of the development which will include the popular furniture retailer.

Daniel Webber, land director at Cala Homes South Home Counties, said: “After an extensive period of planning and close liaison with Lancing Parish Council, Adur District Council, the local community and New Monks Farm Developments Ltd, we’re delighted to have received planning permission.

“We can now deliver 600 high-quality brand new homes to Lancing.

“This scheme shows a continued investment by Cala Homes into desirable and aspirational locations across Sussex, and complements our existing developments in nearby Angmering and Chichester.

“As well as new homes, we will deliver areas of public open space which will create a welcoming environment and an attractive place to live, together with widespread community benefits.

“We’re looking forward to beginning construction this summer.”

Cala Homes said 30 per cent of the properties have been allocated as affordable housing, in a mix of rental and shared equity tenures.

The residential development, which is just over a mile away from Lancing beach, will also include neighbouring play areas, a community centre and an A27 access roundabout.

Earlier this year, environmental campaigners voiced concerns about the project regarding pollution and increased traffic on the A27.

The Adur Residents Environmental Action group said more commuters will add to the daily gridlock on the road, as well as the Ikea customers.

One of the group’s members, Bill Freeman, told The Argus in February: “It’s expected 14 per cent more cars will be on the roads because of this, not just because of the Ikea but also the houses.

“The traffic gridlock is already unsustainable around there.”

A spokesman for Adur District Council said: “Adur Council’s Planning Committee approved the application to create 600 homes and an Ikea on New Monks Farm in October 2018.

“This was formally granted in February 2020 on the signing of the legal agreements.

“As per a condition in that legal agreement, the majority of the construction traffic will access the site via the A27.”