Ford Prison planning appeal approved
Plans for a major redevelopment of HM Ford Open Prison have been approved after an appeal by the Ministry of Justice was allowed.
A planning inspector, appointed by the Secretary of State, allowed the appeal on August 5, 2026.
The plans include seven new three-storey houseblocks, alongside a healthcare unit, offender management unit, multi-faith building, property storage and an 80 space car park.
The decision follows a refusal from Arun District Council on July 31, 2025, over concerns about drainage, flood risk and a travel plan.
West Sussex County Council’s Flood Risk Management officers maintained their objection because the drainage information did not use up to date parameters. The original planning officers report said the calculations could have underestimated the amount of water that would need to be stored.
However, these issues were addressed during the appeal process and updated information was supplied.
The Lead Local Flood Authority said the updated drainage strategy was satisfactory, while the revised flood risk assessment was also accepted.
A travel plan and Section 106 agreement were also submitted, including a £4,000 monitoring fee which the inspector confirmed would be secured before any work begins.
The impact on the nearby Grade I listed St Mary’s Church and Grade II listed vicarage was also considered. The inspector concluded that the proposal would not harm their settings, partly due to an existing wall of trees separating the two sites.
Changes to some of the prison’s existing recreational facilities are also planned, including moving the bowls green to a smaller area.
Sport England raised no objection, with additional recreational facilities proposed such as a trim trail and climbing frame.
The appeal was allowed subject to a number of conditions, including requirements on construction management, archaeology, biodiversity, drainage and parking.