Bersted nursery site development plan gets the go-ahead

Arun District Council has agreed outline plans for Chalcroft Nursery, Chalcraft Lane, subject to conditions and Landform Estates agreeing a planning obligation.

Landform said: “Work on the site is expected to begin shortly.

“It is anticipated the new development will bring a significant number of new construction jobs as well as new employment at the nursery and other businesses on the site.”

The 5 acre (2ha) nursery site forms the first phase of a wider 37 acre (15ha) site that Landform is working on to deliver a further 225 homes, together with new allotments, a public orchard, sports facilities and new public open space.

The two schemes are part of the West of Bersted strategic extension of 2,500 homes.

Landform, together with Pat Cullen and Alastair Smyth, who own and operate Chalcroft Nursery, applied for planning last August on the grounds the businesses on the Bersted site are growing so rapidly they need to expand and modernise the facilities.

The new development will include new laid out roads, parking and landscaping.

The nursery is the main tenant on the site and will now expand its operation, along with St Wilfrid’s Hospice, which has run a purpose-built 650 sqm storage and sales building for second hand goods since 2016.

Landorm said this has been so successful St Wilfrid’s wants to occupy another building of a similar size.

At present, there are about 31 full-time staff and about eight part-time staff employed at the site.

Landform said it has worked closely with Bersted Parish Council, nearby residents and all the statutory authorities to consult on the new development and was very pleased this close dialogue resulted in their support for the proposals.

“Planning permission for a further 225 homes and landscaped grounds is now being considered by Arun District Council,” Landform said.

“The scheme is attracting significant market interest from national house builders, which is a reflection of strong market demand and the shortage of new homes in the Arun district. The site can make a valuable contribution to delivering the Arun housing need, which is facing a significant shortfall in supply.”