- On the instructions of the E. C. Matthews Charitable Trust, formal discussions were initiated for the land’s residential redevelopment of this 67 acre site, commencing in 2015.
- A promotion agreement was entered into with Gleeson Strategic Land, with ensuing discussions progressing with Mid Sussex District Council’s planning department for a scheme of 500 homes, together with a primary school. Planning reference number DM/18/4979.
- Planning consent was gained at Committee in early 2019, incorporating 30% social housing, the usual Public Open Space and Section 106 Contributions. However, the application was judicially reviewed due to the Gypsy & Travellers’ condition within the Local Plan. This application was dismissed, due to the robust conditions within the Local Plan.
- In addition, detailed negotiations with Network Rail took place to agree the cost of a pedestrian tunnel being constructed beneath the London to Brighton railway line. The existing access which is a footway, directly crosses the railway line and is extremely dangerous.
- The sale of the land was concluded in February 2021, with Taylor Wimpey.
West Sussex, Hassocks
