Steyning skate park appeal allowed

But the landowners have reiterated their complete opposition to the development.

Peter Comber, chairman of the Friends of Memorial Playing Field (FoMPF) appealed, following Horsham District Council’s refusal to grant planning permission.

Planning inspector Jonathon Parsons announced on Monday that he had allowed the appeal.

Speaking on behalf of FoMPF, vice-chairman Paul Campbell said: “In reaching his decision, the inspector found that all the concerns voiced by objectors are unfounded.

“After eluding Steyning for a generation, there is now the opportunity for our whole community to work together to provide a skate park in the area of the town originally preferred by skaters themselves.

“It is also just over the road from the location the residents of Steyning expressed their overwhelming preference for in the Parish Council’s 2011 town survey.”

Steyning Grammar School head teacher Nick Wergan, chairman of governors Marion Gue and chairman of its Foundation Trust Calum Chace issued a joint statement with Graham Olway, principal manager of planning for West Sussex County Council.

“Steyning Grammar School, its governing body, its Foundation Trust and West Sussex County Council reiterate their complete opposition to any skate park development at the Horsham Road site.

“The reasons for this opposition are already a matter of public record and there will be no further comment.”