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.

More from Sussex News

‘A Kick In The Teeth For Lewes’: Lib Dem MP Expresses Disappointment Over Bus Station Loss

Lewes Lib Dems, including MP James MacCleary, have reacted after efforts to persuade Secretary of State Angela Rayner to overturn the South Downs National Park Authority’s (SDNPA) decision to allow the demolition of Lewes bus station were unsuccessful.
Results For Worthing’s Bathing Water Sites Revealed

Teams from Worthing Borough Council are working with the Environment Agency and Southern Water to identify sources of pollution impacting the town’s seawater.
£100,000 Robbery Of Bexhill Mobile Phone Store

An estimated £100,000 worth of electronic equipment was stolen from a shop in Bexhill on Monday evening (November 25).
Organisations In Wealden Receive Funding To Help Tackle Inequalities In Physical Activity

Six organisations have received grant awards to support physical activity projects within Wealden and improve health and wellbeing outcomes.
Festive Children’s Stories Brought To Life With Interactive Story Session

A selection of festive stories for young children will be brought to life in Chichester’s historic Guildhall in Priory Park thanks to an interactive Christmas story session.
Jail Time For Shop Owner Who Sold Illegal Tobacco

A shop owner who failed to appear in court after the discovery of £6,000 worth of illegal tobacco and cigarettes has been jailed.
Funding Boost For Community-Led Waste Prevention Projects In West Sussex

West Sussex County Council has partnered with its recycling and waste contractor Biffa, to launch a new Waste Prevention Community Grant Fund for community-based household waste prevention projects in West Sussex.
Newhaven RNLI Welcomes Quartet Of Mayors To Share Gratitude

Mayors of Peacehaven (Debbie Donovan), Seaford (Sally Markwell), Lewes (Imogen Makepeace) and deputy Mayor of Newhaven (Kim Bishop) were welcomed today by Susan Carroll, Newhaven RNLI’s LMG Chair to visit the lifeboat station. Roger Cohen MBE, (LOM) showed them around.
University Of Brighton Launches Health Innovation Hub To Tackle Health Challenges

The University of Brighton today unveiled its groundbreaking new Health Innovation Hub designed to reshape health research, education, and practice by addressing critical health challenges through collaboration, innovation, and education.
New Residential Care Home For Disabled Children In Brighton

Brighton & Hove City Council are developing a new residential home for disabled children and young people in the city.