Large new development is proposed for village

VILLAGERS will be able to have their say on plans for a major new development in Sedlescombe this weekend.

The landowners of a site in Brede Lane are proposing to build up to 50 new homes and extending the village primary school to provide a new access, more parking, teaching facilities, sports facilities and a new home for the existing nursery school.

Discussions have been taking place for some time between Sedlescombe Primary School and the landowners.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The cost of the extension to the school would be met through cross-funding from the residential scheme as there is no public funding.

Rother District Council has previously identified the land as a potential site for housing.

John Keeling, one of the landowners, says he is “very excited” about the proposals.

He said: “The Keeling family has been in Sedlescombe for many generations and have previously donated the land to enable the primary school to be built.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“To be able to provide the land and facilities for the next generation of school children is important to us all.

“We have looked specifically at the traffic/parking issue as we know it is an issue in the village and we have produced an alternative which is better than the existing situation.

“The new housing will also be beneficial to the village by providing a range of new houses (bungalows/houses).

“Bringing in new residents will also provide support for local business.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“We are very keen to hear from all who live or work in Sedlescombe as we are genuinely looking for local support to take this proposal further.”

A letter signed by Geoff Armstrong, director of Armstrong Rigg Planning, has been sent to businesses and residents in the village inviting them to a public exhibition.

The exhibition will take place at Sedlescombe Village Hall in The Street, tomorrow (Saturday September 22), 10am-5pm.

Representatives from the development team will be at the event to answer any questions from residents.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Anyone who is unable to attend, but still wants to have their say, should write to Geoff Armstrong at The Exchange, Colworth Science Park, Sharnbrook, Bedford, MK44 1LQ.

Any comments will be forwarded to landowners John Keeling and William Keeling.

So far no planning application has been submitted to Rother District Council, but if there is a positive response following the exhibition, an application could be submitted shortly.

In his letter Mr Armstrong said: “If there is support from local residents/businesses for this proposal, which is only indicative at this stage, we will move forward to work up a planning application in consultation with the school, councils and local people.”

Related topics: