MP calls housing meeting at Fontwell

A public meeting being held tonight (Friday, September 28) will discuss proposals to build thousands of homes across the six villages.

The meeting, from 6.30pm-7.30pm at Fontwell Park Racecourse, has been called by Arundel and South Downs MP Nick Herbert.

Mr Herbert wants to give residents of Aldingbourne, Barnham, Eastergate, Fontwell, Walberton and Westergate the chance to discuss the issue with him.

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In its draft local plan, Arun District Council has proposed a development of more than 2,000 homes in the greenfield gap between Barnham, Eastergate and Aldingbourne area.

Mr Herbert has expressed concern about the increase in the housing allocation, arguing that while additional housing is needed for Arun, it should be at sustainable levels which will preserve the character of the villages.

In his submission to the consultation, Mr Herbert said that he ‘cannot support the Draft Plan as it stands’.

Arun District Council had earlier indicated a target of 400 units a year for the district over the next 16 years.

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The increase would be accommodated by raising the allocation in Angmering to nearly 500 houses, and through a new ‘strategic housing’ development of more than 2,000 homes in the six villages area.

In a letter to Arun District Council, Mr Herbert stated: “The introduction of a ‘strategic housing’ proposal, and the increase in proposed housing above those originally supported by the council is unwise, unnecessary and unwelcome.”

The public meeting is open to all local residents.