Villagers were invited to an exhibition outlining the scheme today (Saturday November 29) at Sussex Mushrooms in Storrington Road.

The plans included an expensive proposal employing new technology to reduce unpleasant odours associated with producing the crop by 90 per cent.

The homes would be destined for land on the Abingworth Nursery site and would see mushroom production centralised at Chesswood Nursery on the other side of the street.

Land owners Beamsync, based in London, argued this would reduce vehicle movements, increase road safety and make the business more viable in the long term.

The ambitious proposal also includes building community facilities such as an improved village hall, football pitches, allotments and a cricket pavilion.

Over 140 residents turned out to see the plans and give developers their views.

Beamsync said it wanted to analyse their comments before it came up with more concrete plans.

But director Tim Bryant suggested it was possible planning permission could be sought as early as 2009.

Concerns were raised by residents about traffic and the capacity at the village school to take on extra pupils.

But some hoped the development could bring beneficial infrastructure, such as a village shop or homes for young people and the elderly.

For a detailed report and pictures see the West Sussex County Times next week.

What do you think? Email your views to ct.letters@sussexnewspapers.co.uk or post your comments here.