Concern at developers' bid to build 120 new Hastings homes - 'There will be no green space left at this rate!'

Catesby Estates and Rurban Estates say they are preparing plans for a care home and housing on land east of Beaney’s Lane, near The Ridge, close to The Conquest Hospital. A spokesperson said: "Our vision is to plan a high quality, sustainable and well connected development providing a range of house types and sizes, including much needed affordable housing."

They are inviting people to have a say on the proposals. The spokesperson added: "Catesby Estates and Rurban Estates are keen to hear your views before finalising the proposals and submitting planning applications to Hastings Borough Council and Rother District Council."

The developers say they are proposing approximately 120 new homes, of which 30 per cent would be affordable housing, a care home, a new landscaped public open green space, children’s play area and pedestrian and cycle routes.

The spokesperson said: "We are preparing an outline planning application. An outline planning application seeks to establish whether the principle and size of a proposed development is acceptable before a second detailed Reserved Matters planning application is put forward. A Reserved Matters application typically includes information on the layout, landscaping and appearance of the development. Development cannot take place until the Reserved Matters Application has been consented.

"Local residents and statutory consultees, for example the Environment Agency and the Highway Authority, will also have the opportunity to formally comment on the applications once they are submitted and registered with Hastings Borough Council and Rother District Council."

Many Observer readers expressed their concern about extra traffic the proposed development could create on The Ridge.

They shared their views on our Facebook page.

Christopher Russell said: "Yet another busy junction which will [be] impossible to get out of and onto The Ridge in slightly busy times."

Fiona Tritton added: "This particular section is already a significant pinch point due to the parked cars outside the terrace opposite the care home and will make it even more clogged up."

John Tolhurst said: "How many more developments along the Ridge will be allowed, on a road which is not suitable for anymore housing, especially with the hospital in close proximity."

Others raised fears about already struggling local services.

Jane Lyon said: "No schools, doctors' surgery, dentists or other infrastructure for all these people moving to new homes."

Judith Haffenden added: "All these houses and a care home, what about a new reservoir to help with the water shortages? Hastings can't cope now."

The loss of green space and lack of local job opportunities were also raised.

David Bateman said: "I struggle to see where the demand for so many new homes is coming from. We have little or no employment opportunities in the area, where do all these people work?"

Madalyn Selmes said: "The ridge and all surrounding areas are overwhelmed as it is. There will be no green space left at this rate!"

The developers are inviting people to give feedback via a consultation at www.catesby-hastings.co.uk