MP calls on plan to be rejected

In a letter written to the councillors before a meeting yesterday (Wednesday January 8), Mr Herbert called on plans to build hundreds of homes to be rejected.

He wrote: “I strongly urge the council to reject the higher housing number of 580 a year and the ‘strategic’ housing allocations at Angmering and Barnham/Eastergate.”

Mr Herbert also said councillors will ‘face a crucial test’ as the application is considered.

He said: “We all understand the need for new housing, especially affordable homes, and under any of the scenarios a substantial level of housing will be provided. However, this number must be sustainable.

“You face a crucial test this week. I very much hope that the council will exercise its powers under the Localism Act, set a sustainable housing number for the district, and reject damaging proposals that would destroy our villages.”

He added: “Furthermore, if the council endorses the housing numbers and strategic allocations as proposed by the sub-committee, I believe that the plan will be judged to be flawed. I regret that I would have to object to it formally.”

Mr Herbert said hundreds of new homes would put greater pressure on infrastructure and destroy the green gaps between villages.