More than 170 residents have attended consultation events on plans for a major new neighbourhood of up to 1,950 homes at Crabbet Park near Copthorne.
Wates Developments and Slingsby Property Group are consulting on proposals for the site, which has been identified for mixed-use development in Mid Sussex District Council’s Submission Draft Local Plan.
Two public drop-in events have now taken place, with Wates saying more than 170 people attended to examine the plans, meet the project team and raise questions.
An online consultation remains open until 2 October as the developers seek further feedback on the proposed masterplan.
1,950 HOMES
Wates is proposing approximately 1,500 homes on the eastern part of the site alongside a new school, employment space and a mixed-use neighbourhood centre.
The plans could also include sports pitches and assisted living accommodation for older people.
Slingsby Property Group is developing the western part of Crabbet Park, where up to another 450 homes could be delivered, and is expected to hold a separate consultation on its site-specific masterplan this autumn.
Up to 585 homes across the wider development — around 30% of the total — would be affordable, with 75% of those earmarked for social and affordable rent.
The proposals also include an extensive network of woodland and hedgerows and a commitment to deliver a 10% Biodiversity Net Gain.
PUBLIC FEEDBACK
A Wates Developments spokesperson says: “This site has been allocated for development as part of the Mid Sussex District Council Submission Draft Local Plan and we welcome feedback from members of the public at this key stage in the planning process.
“We have been promoting the site through the Local Plan for many years to demonstrate its suitability as a sustainable and appropriate location for development and are pleased to now be sharing early proposals with the local community.
“Driven by our purpose of reimagining places for people to thrive, the plans we’re bringing forward alongside Slingsby Property Group combine new homes, a new school, significant public open space, employment space, new shops and services on the doorstep and significant transport improvements.
“We are committed to working collaboratively with local stakeholders throughout the planning process.”
