An MP has formally submitted an objection to a controversial housing development after a villagers' protest.

Beccy Cooper, who represents West Worthing, has made her feelings known to Arun District Council over the bid for homes on land west of Bewley Road in Angmering. 

Gleeson Land submitted an application in August for up to 190 homes including 57 affordable homes and a community building.

The bid has been condemned by villagers in the area. They formed an action group, Protect Farmland West of Bewley Road, in an attempt to stop any new developments.

People in Angmering have been taking action to protect the future of their farmlands (Image: Laurence Tondelier)

Lucy Todd, who is leading the group, said at the time: ”In Angmering, we are overwhelmed with developments.

“One of the main things is the medical centre seems to be really stretched.”

In addition to the action group, there have been more than 300 public letters submitted on the planning portal and there was a mass protest last month, attended by Ms Cooper.

On August 20, around 150 people gathered on the proposed site armed with placards to voice their frustrations.

Villagers stage protest over 190-home application on farmland (Image: Protect Farmland West of Bewley Road)

At the time a spokeswoman for the Arun District Council said: "Arun District Council will consider each planning application on its own merits and take into account the development plan, the National Planning Policy Framework and relevant material considerations when determining planning applications.”

In her formal letter of objection, the MP stresses her concerns about the negative impacts of the proposed development on the community and infrastructure.

She highlights several issues including increased pressure on schools and doctors and the loss of productive agricultural land.

West Sussex County Councillor Deborah Urquhart, Arun District Councillor Andy Cooper and MP Beccy Cooper at the protests (Image: Protect Farmland West of Bewley Road)

Ms Cooper urged the planning committee to reject the application, saying she feared the development would have a negative impact on the community in Angmering.

She said: “I am in favour of new housebuilding – particularly focused on developing brownfield sites to create healthy, sustainable new communities.

“I feel this development falls short of that vision.

“I am committed to advocating for sustainable development and ensuring that local communities are not adversely affected by new housing projects. My objections reflect a broader concern for balancing our need for new affordable housing with infrastructure and community needs."

Arun District Council was contacted for comment.