Development plans spark flood fear and '˜potential health risk'

That’s the conclusion of a report drawn up by consulting engineers GTA Civils on behalf of local resident James Heagerty who is among objectors to the proposals.

As well as the 200 houses, developers Wates want to build a primary school and country park on land to the south of Scamps Hill, off Scaynes Hill Road, Lindfield.

More than 300 residents packed a public meeting to voice strong opposition to the proposals last month and claimed the plan could ‘destroy’ the village.

In their report, GTA Civils say: “Even in relatively low rainfall intensities, the valley through the middle of the site will flood.” They say it is not clear how surface water will drain from gardens and add: “The possibility of sewer failure with uncontrolled surface water flows from higher land and the dwellings’ gardens create a possible health hazard.”

A decision on the siteis to be made by Mid Sussex District Council.