Development plan splits road in two

A string of Say No To Redeveloping Chantry Area placards sprang up on the garden walls of south-side properties on Monday.

North-side owners have declined to comment on reports that they have been offered 400,000 each for their 'Thirties-built homes which have lengthy rear gardens.

South-side owners - while not blaming their neighbours for being tempted by such an offer - fear that the area would be radically altered if a greater number of smaller properties were squeezed in opposite their homes.

Director Eric Kaemerer-Farag of Thurleigh Homes has said that his firm does not have a fixed plan for the redevelopment of the land but are currently considering the options.

He has said that any proposal put forward would be subject to obtaining planning consent and that his firm's objective is to put together a proposal which will make the best use of the land in accordance with policies and guidelines issued locally and by central government.

He has pledged the firm would give consideration to the character of the area while balancing the need for additional housing.

The action group formed by south-side residents says its fight is far wider than just the immediate Chantry area. It believes the whole character of Bexhill could be changed if the principle of demolishing larger properties in order to facilitate back-land development with smaller homes becomes the norm.

Already, residents in nearby Wychurst Gardens who would not be affected if a Chantry scheme were given planning permission are asking for posters to display in their road.

A spokesman for the action group said anyone wanting Chantry posters or a similar design opposing other development in the town was welcome to contact Sale Signs on 733695. The action group would welcome donations of 10 per board.