Decision on Newhaven development at former charity site deferred

The application, to build nine new houses at the former charity site in Claremont Road, had been due for discussion by Lewes District Council’s planning committee at a meeting on Wednesday (June 9).

It had initially been recommended for approval by planning officers, but at the opening of the meeting the committee heard that this advice had changed as parts of the proposals needed to be clarified.

As a result, discussion of the application was deferred until a later meeting.

The proposals would involve the demolition of buildings previously used for residential and respite care by the Searchlight Workshops.

However, the buildings became largely disused following the charity’s merger with Fitzroy House in 2012. Part of the former charity site has already been developed for housing.

Initially developers had been seeking permission to build ten houses on the site, but this was revised down to nine after submission. Developers are now seeking permission for six semi-detached and three detached dwellings on the site. 

The proposals would also see an existing memorial garden replaced with a new one on the adjoining Fitzroy House site.

The scheme has also seen some significant objections from local residents. 

A large number of objections revolve around highways and parking pressure, although many residents have also raised concerns around the proposed design and size of the buildings as well. 

Fears have also been raised around the potential for flooding as well as overlooking and overshadowing of neighbouring properties. 

For further information on the proposals see application reference LW/20/0888 on the Lewes District Council website.