Tilling Green developers ‘disappointed’ by Rye council rejection

Rye Town Council decided to reject the proposal in its current form for a number of reasons including accusing the designs as being ‘discriminatory’.

But AmicusHorizon’s regional development director Neill Tickle said the homes will benefit the residents of Rye.

“We’re disappointed Rye Town Council do not support our plans,” he said.

“AmicusHorizon is a not-for-profit housing association.

“We want to create high quality, much needed homes and a new community centre to benefit local Rye residents.

“We’re not a private developer with a short term interest.

“We’ll be managing this scheme for years to come and it’s why we’re passionate about building a sustainable scheme the local community can be proud of.”

The plans are in conjunction with Rye Partnership and were submitted last month.

They have since been met with criticism from some residents for being over-developed and for not taking measures against the flood risk.

One complaint was the lack of a lift in the apartment block but Mr Tickle said one could be fitted at a later date.

“We’ve been mindful that the cost of this scheme remains affordable against an unprecedented rise in construction costs,” he said.

“We’ve had to pay East Sussex County Council for the land and will be providing a comprehensive drainage solution.

“And we’ll be financially supporting local community groups around the continued use and set up costs of facilities for local people.

“We’ve therefore had to reconsider certain elements, like removing the lift from the apartment block.

“However, our design will ensure this can be revisited in the future.”

Town councillors voted almost unanimously to not support the development for the height of the four-storey central block and for not being disability-friendly as there are no lifts or straight staircases to allow for a stair lift to be installed.

But the feeling was that once some changes were made, their stance could be reversed.

Mr Tickle said the scheme ‘fits well’ into the surrounding area and is proud of the plans.

“We’ve carefully considered the height and design of the apartment block and we’ve worked hard to deliver a scheme that fits well into the existing environment and nearby homes,” he said.

“We believe the plans we’ve submitted have addressed these important issues.

“We listened very carefully to the local community when putting together our proposals.

“Their help and feedback was key to helping us shape this planning application and we remain confident this development will be one we’re all proud of.”

Rye council rejects Tilling Green housing proposal

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