Residents could be ‘side-lined’

Jemima Bland, Liberal Democrat parliamentary candidate for East Worthing and Shoreham, has raised concerns about a key policy in the Draft Adur Local Plan.

It states planning applications that ‘accord’ with the local plan ‘will be approved without delay’, but does not mention the need to consult residents.

Ms Bland has written Adur Council a joint letter with Lancing councillor Richard Burt calling for changes.

She said: “The policy says the council will work with applicants so that proposals can be approved wherever possible.

“I want that changed so that the council also has to consider the views of residents on controversial planning applications.”

Mr Burt said: “The Adur Local Plan should enable ordinary residents to play a larger role in controversial planning decisions, such as New Monks Farm, not less.”