Oaklands Site, Hailsham, 200 homes – we objected, the Inspector has turned the application down. No longer considered a threat.

Heathfield: Land to the Rear of the Police Station, High Street, Heathfield TN21 OUP (WD/2013/0635/MEA): Outline Planning Application by Summertree Estates Ltd and Gleeson Developments Ltd for the erection of up to 115 new residential dwellings of which 40% are to be affordable. This application has been approved, although the decision has not been published. We objected on the basis that no AONB land should be developed for normal commercial housing and are not convinced a robust case has been made for building 75 market houses, a case that would be strong enough to warrant destruction of part of an AONB.

Solar Farms: there has been an explosion of interest in applications for solar farms – 11 potential sites have been identified. We have objected to WD/2013/1664/MEA: land at Wick Street, Berwick BN26 6TH on the basis the development would result in the introduction of engineered, alien features in an otherwise undeveloped rural landscape resulting in a loss of landscape character and adverse visual impact, including potentially from the South Downs National Park to the South. However, the planning officers have recommended this site for approval subject to conditions. The application goes to Planning Committee on 17th October.

Graywood, East Hoathly: an application for the construction of a small camp site in ancient woodland has been opposed vigorously by local residents. Wealden District Council has removed the application awaiting further information. We have registered our objection in principle and asked to be kept informed.

John Hurwood (planning) & Lesley Wilson – October 2013