Residents voice concerns over Willingdon development plans

The proposed housing development, which lies on green land to the south east of Mornings Mill Farm, would also include a community building such as a leisure park or allotment space.

The land is bordered by Seven Sisters Road and Hazelwood Avenue as well as the Polegate to Hampden Park railway line.

Residents fear the development’s proximity to the railway will limit access to the site, putting extra pressure on roads in Polegate, Hampden Park and Willingdon.

Willingdon and Jevington Parish Council has also raised some initial concerns about the proposals.

In a report a spokesman for the parish council said, “The committee believes that development would have a significant effect on the existing population of Willingdon and Eastbourne particularly those living in Seven Sisters Road, Hazelwood Avenue and the Closes off of those roads.

“From the proposed possible access points for vehicular traffic, it is believed this development would result in considerably increased traffic through Hampden Park, Kings Drive, Seven Sisters Road and the A2270 at Willingdon.”

The developers, Catesby Estates Ltd, applied for a screening opinion by Wealden District Council in December last year – the first step towards making a planning application.

In December, the council found the development would be “not be out of context with its existing environments” and is unlikely to significantly impact flood protection or natural resources.

Further reports – including an archeological and transport assessment – are expected to be produced should the proposals proceed. Developers are holding a public exhibition on the plans at Trinity Church Hall in Coppice Avenue from 2pm to 7pm on Thursday February 25.

Residents have organised a community meeting to discuss the plans and what action to take following the public exhibition.

The meeting will be at the Hampden Park Community Centre in Brodrick Road on Sunday February 28 at 2pm.

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