Decision due on ‘unique’ Kingston new build

On Wednesday (July 1), Lewes District Council’s planning committee is set to consider proposals to demolish a home, known as Astley, in Ashcombe Lane and replace it with a four-bedroom new build with a “high standard of architectural and energy-efficient design.” 

While recommended for approval by planning officers, the proposals have seen concerns raised by Kingston Parish Council, which argues the scheme will have “an adverse visual impact” in “a very prominent position”.

In a representation submitted to district planners, a Kingston Parish Council spokesman said: “[The council] considers the development proposals will have a negative/adverse visual impact on the character of the village at its eastern entrance. 

“KPC is particularly concerned that the appearance of the building, due largely to the proposed wholesale use of light-coloured brickwork as a facing material, will have a detrimental impact on the character of the local area. 

“The proposed finish is neither in keeping nor complementary to both its location within a Sussex village and the immediately surrounding buildings.”

The parish council also raises concerns around the “bulk” of the proposed building, arguing it may have an overbearing effect on neighbouring properties.

Despite this, the parish council also says it is not against a development on the site, but would like to see the design altered. 

Initially the applicant had proposed cladding the outside of the building in timber but altered this to a light brickwork in light of concerns from the parish council. The parish council did not believe this alteration would address its concerns, however.

But planning officers do not share the parish council’s concerns and are recommending the scheme be approved as submitted. 

In a report to be considered by the committee, a planning officer said: “The design is highly sustainable and environmental whilst also being contemporary and innovative. 

“This is considered to be an appropriate location for such a unique development and the scheme demonstrates a high level of architectural quality that is considered to enhance the street scene and, due to the position and scale, would not appear unduly dominant.”

Planning officers also say any objection based on the impact on neighbours due to ‘bulk’ would be unlikely to sustain an appeal.

The site, as with all of Kingston, sits within the South Downs National Park.

For further information on the proposals see application reference SDNP/19/05763/HOUS on the South Downs National Park Authority planning website.

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