Controversial Eastbourne development put on hold

Plans for four new houses on a patch of land in Rodmill Drive were put forward by the council-owned housing company Eastbourne Homes last year.

A decision on the development was expected to be made at a recent planning meeting but proposals were withdrawn at the last minute after it emerged that part of the proposed land belonged to a private landowner.

A spokeswoman for Eastbourne Borough Council said, “This scheme is at an early stage and discussions are continuing regarding this site.”

The development has proven controversial with Rodmill residents with more than 160 people signing a petition calling on the council to abandon the project.

The council also received 26 written letters of objection to the proposed development.

Norman Russell, who runs Rodmill Post Office, said he is happy the plans have been put on hold but hopes to council will now cancel the scheme completely.

He said, “Almost everyone in Rodmill disagrees with this plan, I don’t understand why the council is pursuing it.

“I’m chuffed about it being delayed but I will get the champagne out once it has been cancelled.”

The plans are also opposed by Cllr Colin Belsey, who represents Ratton Ward as both a borough and a county councillor.

He said, “Local residents are very worried about the parking issues this could create, there are already serious issues in the area.

“I understand that we need housing in Eastbourne, but, I am worried about the effect it will have on the Anchor Housing apartments next to the site, with a loss of sun and light.

“Now we hear that EBC do not own all the land required.”

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