A residential development comprising more than 120 properties could be constructed in a village where local opponents have warned about the risk of urban expansion transforming the community.
Taylor Wimpey Strategic Land has submitted an outline planning application for as many as 125 dwellings on land situated to the north of Rectory Lane in Ashington.
The scheme encompasses public open areas, landscape planting, drainage facilities, and transport infrastructure.
Two points of access for vehicles and pedestrians would be established from Rectory Lane, alongside a route designated for sustainable travel.
The scheme occupies a portion of a broader allocation contained within Horsham District Council’s emerging Local Plan, which designates the location as appropriate for approximately 450 residences as part of what is termed the Ashington Northern Cluster.
The Taylor Wimpey proposal would constitute the south-western portion of this allocation.
Should the draft Local Plan receive adoption, the northern cluster development would result in in excess of 750 new residences being added to the village and its surrounding area, representing a 68 per cent uplift compared to existing housing numbers.
Community consultation occurred previously this year, incorporating a gathering with Ashington Parish Council alongside an online session for residents.
Feedback was submitted by 259 individuals, with 86 per cent expressing disapproval of the scheme.
Issues cited by respondents included the impact on local traffic, the adequacy of existing infrastructure, the effect on the village’s distinctive character, and environmental consequences.
A representative for Taylor Wimpey indicated that the company had taken note of the objections received and that contributions toward infrastructure would form part of any consent granted.
The developer noted that matters relating to traffic volumes, road safety, and the carrying capacity of Rectory Lane featured prominently among the issues raised by the public.
Work on a comprehensive Transport Assessment is currently underway in collaboration with West Sussex County Council to evaluate the scheme’s effects on the local road network.
Local residents have voiced dissatisfaction regarding the extent of residential development proposed for Ashington, highlighting the combined consequences of schemes that have recently received approval alongside those still under consideration.
Patricia O’Callaghan has established a petition opposing the development, describing the potential impact as a transformation of the village that could diminish its defining qualities.
Separate applications for 74 and 152 homes respectively have secured approval during the current year.
Work on an additional 74 residences commenced construction during 2024.
A determination on the current application is scheduled for 13 November.
Residents have additionally highlighted concerns regarding the frequency of bus provision and access to medical services, noting the absence of a general practitioner facility within Ashington and the challenges associated with reaching the nearest surgeries via public transport.