Building a New Community: 3,000 Homes Planned Near Gatwick Airport

Exciting Development on the Horizon! The government has unveiled ambitious plans to construct 3,000 homes near Gatwick Airport in West Sussex, aiming to transform the area with a variety of essential amenities. The proposal, led by Homes England, includes not just residential properties, but also schools, a hotel, healthcare facilities, sports amenities, and a community centre. This extensive project is proposed for land located west of Ifield on the outskirts of Crawley and is currently under review by Horsham District Council.

The outline planning application has been submitted, allowing public input from Thursday to September 25. Ruth Fletcher, the council’s cabinet member for planning, emphasized the importance of public feedback to understand the impacts and benefits of this development. The outline will encompass diverse developments including business, service, storage and industrial buildings, as well as open spaces and pedestrian paths.

Should the outline be approved, a detailed application will follow, addressing critical infrastructure needs like the Crawley western relief road and school access. This project presents significant implications for the district, and Fletcher urges local residents and businesses to participate in the feedback process.

However, the development has faced opposition from the Save West of Ifield campaign group, which highlights concerns over traffic congestion, environmental impacts, and the availability of affordable housing, among other issues. The group plans to hold workshops to assist residents in voicing their concerns regarding the proposal. Charlotte O’Mahony, project director at Homes England, advocates the developments, stating the intention to create a thriving community that balances housing needs with infrastructure growth and job creation. This major project promises to reshape the local landscape significantly.