Estate plan scrapped over fears of flooding

The Environment Agency objected to the proposal for 11 homes in Downview Road.

The existing house at 12 Downview Road would have been demolished under the proposals by Antler Homes Ltd and its site and the rear of 12-22 Downview Road used for the intended properties.

But the agency told Arun District Council the proposed drainage system was deficient.

The water watchdog also stated the surface water drainage of the development was inadequate.

This risk of flooding was one of the three reasons agreed by Arun's development control committee on Wednesday, January 16, to reject the proposal.

The other two matters were the site's location mostly outside the built-up area and the lack of a contribution from Antler Homes towards a children's play area.

The decision was greeted with joy by the dozens of residents who attended the meeting.

Two residents spoke against the scheme and outlined how the area was flooded in 1993/94. One of the local councillors, Dougal Maconachie, also opposed the development.

Council planning officer Dan Vick said the area had a high water table. The only solution to the potential flooding problems was to provide drainage to the adjoining watercourse. But the Environment Agency had vetoed this because not enough was known about how the idea would work.

However, Mr Vick said the development was not considered to adversely affect the character and appearance of the area. Its density was also acceptable.