Plans submitted to Horsham District Council for gypsy pitches

Proposals have been submitted to create four pitches for settled gypsy accommodation on land at Sussex Topiary, Rudgwick, near Horsham.

The site will include communal areas as well as a utility building, parking and a private amenity area within each pitch.

The application comes after plans for eight pitches on the site were turned down.

Agents on behalf of the applicant said the site is capable of “peaceful and integrated coexistence with the local community” and would not detract “significantly” from the appearance and openness of the countryside, cause unacceptable levels of noise, effluent discharge or damage to designated sites.

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They said there are currently no allocations for gypsy sites in Horsham.

“Both the general need for gypsy sites for whom there is currently no suitable available alternative accommodation, carry significant weight,” the application’s planning statement said.

“Personal circumstances of intended occupiers would no doubt provide further weight in support of the proposals. Taken together, the general and personal need for accommodation provide the compelling circumstances required to justify development. Any marginal harm arising from the proposals is clearly outweighed by other material considerations. A personal condition restricting occupancy is unnecessary.

They said the scheme would “provide a settled base that reduces the need for long-distance travelling and possible environmental damage caused by unauthorised encampment”.

The development would be set away from the highway boundary, plans said.

There have been two objections to the plans so far from residents of Pensfold, Naldretts Lane.

One resident said: "Naldretts Lane is a single track rural lane prone to standing water due to the poor upkeep of the drainage either side of the lane by the current occupants. It is also constantly used by walkers... it would not be suitable to add more residences or traffic increasing the increasing pressures to the existing environment and infrastructure.

"Adding four more residences to the lane is not in keeping with the rural nature of the local environment. There is an existing site along the Haven with better access that should be considered."

The other objector said: "A four pitch gypsy site will bring additional cars to an already dangerous part of the lane, a blind corner before access out onto the Haven. Drainage is already an issue on this part of the lane and with more hardstanding on the site this is unlikely to be improved as the site slopes down to the lane. I'd like to also point out that the area is rural not semi rural as is stated."