Protected land in Mannings Heath still ‘vulnerable’ Horsham MP told
Members of Mannings Heath Action Group (MHAG), which boasts around 250 members in the village, met with Mr Maude last Saturday to share their concerns over development on land designated within the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).
In March this year Danny Pecorelli, managing director of Exclusive Hotels, which runs Mannings Heath Golf Club and South Lodge Hotel, unveiled plans for 64 homes off Winterpit Lane.
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Hide AdCampaigners showed Mr Maude around the site on Saturday and emphasised that allowing development there would set a precedent for housebuilding within the AONB.
Alan Langford, secretary at MHAG, said: “Until local plans are in place, even previously protected land remains vulnerable.
“The MHAG believe that building on AONB land should not be permitted unless there is a clearly demonstrated need and all other alternatives have been exhausted. We’re sure that others will agree.”
Mr Maude added: “Having visited the site, I understand the concerns of the local residents.
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Hide Ad“wI hope that the district council can get ahead with their local plan, when planning decisions will reflect what local people want.”
Nuthurst Parish Council is currently looking into producing a Neighbourhood Plan, which would sit alongside Horsham District Council’s Local Development Framework covering the entire district.
Consultation on its preferred draft strategy will close on Friday October 11.
Roger Cato, chairman of MHAG, added that the group had assisted in preparations for a Neighbourhood Plan, and believed it was important this was completed urgently.
A planning application has yet to be submitted for the site.