Bexhill flats and eco cottages approved

Developers Liam Russell Architects had applied to build six flats and two cottages on the site of the former NatWest building in Cooden Sea Road.

The plans included ground floor retail space and 10 parking spaces.

Developers had initially submitted plans for nine flats and two semi-detached eco cottages, before scaling back the application.

Ten letters were sent to Rother District Council, objecting to the plans.

Some argued new homes are not needed in the area, while one objector cited ‘nightmare’ traffic as a reason the application should be refused.

Other concerns were raised about over development of the site, the impact on neighbours and that the building will be out of keeping with its surroundings.

One person wrote in support of the application.

The scheme comprises four one-bedroom flats and two two-bedroom flats, while the two cottages will each boast two bedrooms.

Rother’s planning committee met at Bexhill Town Hall last Thursday (May 26) to discuss the application.

Councillors praised the design of the eco cottages, which include a grassed roof and solar panels.

Cllr Tony Ganly (Con, Ewhurst and Sedlescombe Ward)said: “I like the curved roof design.

“It softens the appearance of the building.”

Cllr Sue Prochak (Lib Dem, Salehurst) said: “I would just like to say it was refreshing that there is a seeded roof and I would like to congratulate the applicant and (planning) officers.”

But Cllr Tom Graham, who represents Bexhill St Marks Ward, took a dimmer view of the application.

He said: “It is my judgement, having listened to the discussion this morning and further to the information available to us, it’s a case of background development and I shall be voting accordingly.”

All the councillors voted in favour of the plans, except for Cllr Graham.

The plans were approved subject to a number of conditions, which include addressing drainage issues and providing provision for a cycle parking area for the homes.

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