The prospect of a major housing development on the “Sledging Field” has become a real threat again.

The firm decision by Mid Sussex District Council to refuse the planning application for 38 houses, with access off Church Lane, is being challenged by the developer.

The challenge will be considered and determined by an Inspector at a Public Inquiry, which is expected to last for 4 days.

Our community action group “Save Our Sledging Field” has been granted permission to be legally represented at the Inquiry, and we will be supporting Mid Sussex District Council, who will be defending their original decision.

We want to ensure the views of residents are NOT ignored. This includes the real and potential danger to the safety of all the school children who use Church Lane, expressed by so many residents who originally objected.

A Public Inquiry is a formal process and, to be effective, we need to be professionally represented. We have appointed a barrister and other expert consultants to give detailed evidence on our behalf and to counter the claims to be made by the developer.

Unfortunately, all this costs money, a lot of money, which is why we are writing to ask for your help.

So far it is mainly the residents who live closest to the site that have generously funded the campaign. This is only right, as they would be most severely impacted. However, if this development was to go ahead it would also impact people from all parts of our village and those that visit it.

To mount a professional case we need to raise an additional £15,000. We are therefore inviting contributions from £5 to £500 (although we would welcome what ever amount you feel may be right for you).

Please help us to:-

Protect the Safety of our children using Church Lane

Defend the AONB & Conservation Area

Retain the Views enjoyed from the footpath, by villagers and visitors alike

Avoid setting a Precedent for other unsuitable developments

To preserve the rural character, environment and safety of our village, please contribute to the fund.

With your financial support we can win!

Link to Crowdfunding Page

Birchgrove Road Appeal comments due by 9 December