A new residential development scheme in the Sussex countryside is reigniting debate about construction in the region.
Rownsmoss Wessex Limited has submitted proposals for approximately 3,000 homes to the east of Plumpton Green, facing public backlash over the loss of farming land, strain on existing amenities and environmental implications.
The development would form part of a brand-new settlement and includes provisions for a primary school, retail area, local hub and designed walking routes across the site.
Nevertheless, resistance to the proposal continues to be robust.
Lorraine Novak stated that the amount of land disappearing was deplorable.
Alan Dobson characterised the scheme as unacceptable.
Chantelle Cheeseman highlighted the irony of building new properties when existing dwellings remain unoccupied.
She commented that rather than utilising the thousands of empty and derelict homes already standing, the destruction of green areas was being pursued while so much housing sat unused.
Concerns about civic infrastructure were also raised.
Gillian Green asked whether medical facilities, additional water provision, suitable road networks and sufficient schools for the expanded population would be included.
Karen Clark noted that homes were constructed without accompanying facilities.
Many residents also voiced concern about the vanishing rural scenery and wildlife environments.
Shona Brown expressed sorrow at the loss of countryside.
Cheryl Nisbet observed that creating such a development during an ecological crisis would result in irreversible damage to natural areas.
The proposal includes 40 percent of dwellings being affordable units, together with a fresh retail quarter, community building and infant school with early years and special educational needs provision.
The plans additionally feature an energy facility with purpose-built renewable technology, along with a target of 20 percent biodiversity enhancement.
The scheme is arranged across five separate phases, beginning with 500 residences and essential services such as the primary school.
Construction is anticipated to begin in 2029, with final completion scheduled for 2039.
The site, designated North Barnes Farm, is understood to be owned by Eton College and has previously encountered opposition from local residents and conservation groups.
David Leightley cautioned that the area would become an urban sprawl bearing no resemblance to a market town.
Frances Cosham questioned the location, observing that construction continued in areas with minimal land availability and highest population density, and urged that the South East be left undisturbed.
Mike Ware instead called for the regeneration of empty urban sites.
He stated that developers wished to simply arrive, destroy undeveloped land, without consideration for future requirements.