There are fears a village could become "overdeveloped" if plans to build hundreds of homes on a former mushroom farm are approved.

Bellway Homes has submitted proposals to redevelop the land which is on the South Downs, west of Storrington Road, Thakeham, near Storrington.

The existing buildings, most recently used by Monaghan’s Mushrooms for the growing and processing of mushrooms, would be knocked down to make way for the 247 homes, 86 of which would be affordable.

The mushroom business ceased operating on the site in 2018.

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A range of homes have been proposed, including one and two-bedroom apartments alongside one, two, three and four-bed detached, semi-detached and terraced houses.

Fabrik Ltd, on behalf of Bellway, said the aim of the project is to create a residential area people are proud of and one that will “stand the test of time”.

Planning documents said: “Recognising the pivotal role that history and landscape play in shaping a community, the aim is to create a locale residents take pride in calling home, which not only serves as a residential area but also as a hub where people can work, relax, engage in recreational activities, and socialise.

“Strategic new planting, green spaces and the alignment of streets all take cues from historic field patterns and the site's history.

“The natural edges of the site connect to new green corridors and open spaces, creating a range of landscape and biodiversity opportunities. Coupled with a reinterpretation of the former grid arrangement of the farm, a unique pattern will be established in which to build new homes.

“The scheme will be designed and built to stand the test of time, creating a successful new neighbourhood within Abingworth, for now and in years to come.”

But a number of villagers have objected to the scheme.

One commenter said: “There has already been enough development in Thakeham and this is over stretching our small village and surrounding amenities. Not to mention local wildlife suffering.”

Another raised concerns about the “overdevelopment” of the village.

“The very significant multi-phase Abingworth development has only just been completed in the last few years, adding significantly to the already overburdened local services, infrastructure and amenities,” they said.

“There is a total lack of existing infrastructure and key supporting services to support yet another huge local development, such as this.”

Another development called Abingworth Meadows, which lies to the south east of site is in its final phase of construction.

Consultation on the mushroom farm site plan is open until February 8.