Plans for eight flats near Bognor Regis refused due to flood risk

The application sought to build a three-storey building on land east of Heath Place with underground car parking, bike storage and eight flats.

The development would have provided six one-bedroom flats and two two-bedroom flats.

The Environment Agency initially objected over concerns about the Flood Risk Assessment but later withdrew their objection after concluding the development would be safe from river flooding.

However, Arun District Council’s drainage officers continued to object due to insufficient information over how surface water would be managed.

They said the applicant had failed to show the development would meet a number of national standards, including whether water could be drained into the ground or into the existing highway sewer on Ash Grove.

The council acknowledged that the development would provide eight new homes in a sustainable location and help contribute towards meeting local housing need.

However, planning officers concluded that these benefits did not outweigh the concerns about the proposed surface water drainage system and subsequent flood risk.

The application was refused by delegated powers on October 28.