Many 'visibly shaken' by scale of Homes England's West of Ifield development plans

Homes England, a government agency funded by taxpayers, is proposing to build 3,000 new houses on and around Ifield Golf Club on the Rusper Road on the rural outskirts of Crawley. This is likely to be phase one of a ‘growth opportunity’ for 10,000 new houses in all.

Over 300 people attended over the three days last week, from all parts of Crawley, Rusper, Lambs Green, Faygate and Roffey. This is despite the fact that many residents said they had not received any notification of the events from Homes England.

Members of the Save West of Ifield campaign were present the whole time.

Save West of Ifield chair Fenella Maitland-Smith said: ”The overwhelming response from attendees has been a massive no to the Homes England plans. People are not seeing any obvious benefits for local communities, but lots of negatives. They’re shocked by the size of the development and the likely effect on traffic and rail transport.

“Many people were visibly shaken when they left the building, and emotions were running high. Although the Homes England staff and consultants had more answers than at previous events, people were frustrated at the lack of detail and contradictory answers to some of the key questions.”

Project director Kate McBridesaid said “Homes England support the delivery of homes where they are most needed. As part of their emerging local plans, both Horsham and Crawley have identified acute housing needs and the West of Ifield scheme would help make these homes happen.

“This is our third consultation for West of Ifield, giving people an opportunity to see and comment on the changes we have made to take account of the comments we have already received from local communities. Changes made following feedback have included proposals for reducing traffic on Rusper Road, retention of Ifield Brook Meadows, early provision of infrastructure, schools and healthcare facilities to serve local needs.”

See more: ‘Early infrastructure is key to West of Ifield development’, says Homes England as third consultation takes place, Allotments plan for Furnace Green field are 'paused', Crackdown on illegal fly-tipping in Crawley continues

The Save West of Ifield Committee urges everyone in Crawley, Horsham, Rusper and Faygate to watch the video put out by Homes England, respond to its consultation and attend the on-line event on November 1. Details found here https://westofifield.commonplace.is/ or visit the campaign website: https://www.savewestofifield.co.uk/