VOTE: Fury over Courtwick homes verdict

Arun councillors came within a whisker of approving the controversial plans yesterday (Wednesday, July 13) afternoon, deferring their final decision until after a consultation has been held over a potential new access onto Courtwick Lane, Wick.

All other aspects of the outline plans were agreed by the development control committee, apart from details of the multi-million pound infrastructure payments to be sought from the developers.

Councillors agonised over the decision, claiming they found themselves “between a rock and a hard place”.

But East Preston councillor Ricky Bower said that although he agreed with many of the objections, he had not heard a single objection based on solid planning grounds.

He was, however, concerned that the proposed single access onto the A259 would not be adequate and proposed that a final decision should be deferred for the sole issue of consulting over an additional access for the new homes onto Courtwick Lane.

The committee agreed, with just two votes against, much to the disappointment of the scores of objectors.

One resident, Ray Blunt, of Linnet Close, described the outcome as “an awful and wrong decision”.

He criticised the proposal for a further access onto Courtwick Lane.

“Courtwick Lane is not wide enough to sustain a large volume of traffic. It never was and never will be.

“This proposal would have an impact down the whole length of Courtwick Lane.”

What do you think about the deferral?

Cast your vote by clicking on the poll at the top right of this story.

Alternatively, email your views to [email protected]