A proposal for a contentious residential development has been officially scrapped.

Antler Homes had put forward plans to knock down Friars Oak Farmhouse on London Road in Hassocks to make room for 20 dwellings.

Confirmation of the withdrawal came through correspondence addressed to Mid Sussex District Council dated April 27.

The project would have comprised a combination of two-bedroom, three-bedroom, and four-bedroom properties, with 30 percent designated as affordable units.

Local inhabitants expressed opposition to the scheme, and a public consultation carried out in January and February 2024 attracted 138 submissions.

Issues highlighted during the consultation, such as heightened traffic volumes, insufficient infrastructure, and the removal of trees and wildlife habitats, were echoed by numerous participants in another consultation organized by the district council in February the previous year.

One resident opposed to the scheme commented that local infrastructure was already struggling to cope with existing construction levels. The individual stated that increased road congestion would result and that continued development would damage natural environments and green areas.

Another local resident expressed that an excessive number of homes had been constructed in Hassocks within a very brief timeframe. This person noted that supporting infrastructure remained inadequate, describing traffic conditions on London Road as already problematic.

In response to the raised objections, the developer maintained that an independent transport review identified no safety issues related to the suggested development.

The company also indicated that planning conditions would be employed to guarantee that suitable infrastructure and services would be provided to accommodate the new residences.

The council’s withdrawal correspondence did not specify a reason for the decision.

Antler Homes has been approached for a response.