Hellingly Ward

A view from  David Radtke

Blackbrooks Garden Centre, Lower Dicker  WD/2021/0999/MAO

This application for up to 35 houses is going to PCS on the 7th October- next Thursday. This is an important application that will open the floodgates to development West of the A22 , including the 2500 houses proposed by Grosvenor on land between Lower and Upper Dicker. There are overwhelming reasons in planning policy terms to justify refusal. Wealden planning however have bent over backwards to recommend approval. Here are some of the reasons against the development:

1. Traffic congestion – junctions nearby are already impossible and existing residents dice with danger every time they leave their properties. Traffic will increase at peak times with the change of use.

2. This site is outside of any development boundary

3. The area is zoned for industrial / commercial use. This land use is in short supply and WDC’s own economic / employment advisers have recommended against this application.

4. Non -sustainable location – nearest shop is at the Boship garage 2 miles away. Footpaths inadequate and woefully infrequent bus service. No schools, doctors, dentists etc. in the vicinity. Will definitely encourage car use.

5. Flooding and surface water drainage – the site is on heavy impermeable clay and according to the Pevensey and Cuckmere Flood Management Board presents an unacceptable risk unless a raft of complex conditions are put on. Experience has shown us that Wealden neither have the expertise or manpower to monitor and enforce these conditions, resulting in the disastrous flooding and sewage problems on many of the new estates in Hailsham.

6. This development will result in an unacceptable form of back-land development that does not respect the character of adjoining development.

If you feel strongly about this development please write in to Wealden – it is not too late to object – or come along to the planning meeting at the Vicarage Lane offices in Hailsham at 10am. I have registered to speak against this.