Villagers’ victory in battle to halt plans for Copthorne gypsy site

Villagers have won a battle to stop a gypsy and traveller site being built near their homes.
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Mid Sussex District Council has withdrawn a planning application for the site at Hollow Copse in Copthorne.

And, it says it ‘will no longer propose development on this site.’

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A spokesman said: “The council will now consider new options as part of a review of the District Plan, which is due for independent examination in 2022.

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“The current adopted District Plan covers the period to 2031 and provides strategic planning guidance on what, where, when and how development will take place in Mid Sussex.”

Council deputy leader Judy Llewellyn-Burke said: “Copthorne residents have provided us with extensive feedback on the proposal to provide a site for gypsies and travellers at Hollow Copse through our public consultations and it’s clear that most villagers will welcome our decision not to progress with this scheme.

“The council is required by law to meet the accommodation needs of everyone in Mid Sussex and we remain committed to ensuring the needs of gypsies, travellers and travelling showpeople are planned for appropriately as part of the Mid Sussex District Plan.

“We will carry out a thorough assessment of their needs as part of our District Plan review and update our approach to delivering culturally suitable accommodation.”