Newhaven Searchlight Workshops Scheme Returns To Committee

Wednesday, 30 June 2021 06:00

By Huw Oxburgh, Local Democracy Reporter

Proposals to demolish the former Searchlight Workshops in Newhaven are set to return to planners next week.

A decision on the application, to build nine new houses at the former charity site in Claremont Road, had originally been due to be made at a meeting on June 9.

However, the decision was deferred after officers advised the committee that parts of the proposals needed to be clarified.

Following deferral, the scheme is once again recommended for approval, with a decision now due to made by Lewes District Council’s planning committee on Wednesday, July 7.

In a report to be considered by the committee, a council planning officer said: “It is considered that the proposed development represents an efficient and sustainable use of a previously developed site.

“The overriding character of the surrounding area would not be compromised and environmental and residential amenities would be preserved.

“The site can be accessed safely and an appropriate amount of off-street car parking would be provided in order to ensure there is not unacceptable parking pressure on the surrounding highway network.”

While previously used for residential and respite care, the buildings became largely disused following the charity’s merger with Fitzroy House in 2012. Part of the former charity site has already been developed for housing.

Initially developers had been seeking permission to build ten houses on the site, but this was revised down to nine after submission. Developers are now seeking permission for six semi-detached and three detached dwellings on the site.

The proposals would also see an existing memorial garden replaced with a new one on the adjoining Fitzroy House site.

While recommended for approval by planning officers, the scheme has seen some significant objections from residents.

A large number of objections revolve around highways and parking pressure, although many residents have also raised concerns around the proposed design and size of the buildings as well.

Fears have also been raised around the potential for flooding as well as overlooking and overshadowing of neighbouring properties.

For further information on the proposals see application reference LW/20/0888 on the Lewes District Council website.