Plans to build hundreds of new homes have been withdrawn.
Developer Barratt David Wilson Homes had proposed to construct 268 dwellings, a sheltered living scheme and public open space at Stubcroft Farm in East Wittering.
The plans, which were first submitted in May 2024, included 80 affordable homes, a mix of housing types, open space, flexible retail and community floorspace, and a 45-bed sheltered living scheme for older people.
But following a failure to agree matters regarding the application with Chichester District Council, Barratt has decided to withdraw the applications.
In a letter to the district council on April 23, the developer said: “This decision has been made in the spirit of continuing to work positively and collaboratively with the council.
“While we remain confident that the matters raised in respect of the applications can be addressed and resolved, we recognise the time already afforded by the council in considering the proposals to date.
“Given the current position and acknowledging that further extensions of time are not possible, it is considered appropriate to withdraw the applications at this stage.”
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An artist’s impressions of the proposals (Image: Barratt David Wilson Homes)
Proposals for the site were previously rejected at appeal in 2024, with concerns raised over its flood risk and the loss of good quality agricultural land.
The most recent application was submitted as a revised version of the earlier plans, and was subject to a new surface water drainage strategy.
However, West Sussex County Council’s flood risk management team said that while the latest application addressed previous concerns, new national guidance on drainage systems meant it was still insufficient.
The latest plans have also received backlash from dozens of residents, who have raised concerns surrounding flood risk, overcapacity of the sewage network, and the loss of “prime agricultural land”.
Barratt said it would reflect on the feedback received and engage further with the district council.