Plans to convert former Priory restaurant refused

Mid Sussex District Council’s planning committee refused the application at a meeting at the Council Chamber, in Haywards Heath, on Thursday (February 17).

The committee was asked to consider a recommendation for 53 new flats to replace the former restaurant, in Syresham Gardens, Haywards Heath.

The restaurant famously appeared on outspoken celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay’s Channel 4 programme in 2007 but was put up for sale in 2012.

At the meeting on Thursday, the planning committee asked developers to go away and reconsider an ‘improved design’ for the flats.

Councillor John Wilkinson said: “The only way to preserve this building is to convert it into residential use.

“I ask that you go away and get a design that actually works that is in keeping with the convent.

“We can not approve this application in its current status.

Councillor Colin Trumble said: “We have to agree that an alternative use for this building is the only way forward.

“Converting this building into residential use is the best for way forward and I appreciate the developers for acknowledging this.

“I am just glad we are finally paying attention to the design of a building.”

The committee voted unanimously in favour of a recommendation to refuse this planning application.

The committee was also asked to consider a listed building application for the chapel located on the same site.

Steve Ashdown, planning officer, said: “This consent application is just a change to the description to grant listed building consent for the chapel.”

The committee voted unanimously in favour of a recommendation to approve the listed building consent.

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