Consultation Portal

The Horsham District Council (HDC) housing proposals are targeting villages like Billingshurst that are on a railway line. This is illogical as only 2-3% of the working population in the Horsham District actually commute to and from work by train.

An almost identical plan for Billingshurst was rejected by Horsham District Council in 2006. This plan was also rejected by independent government inspectors. The same grounds for rejection still exist and no justification has been given as to why other locations cannot be expanded.

Both Daux and Rosier Woods and the fields within the development area are high quality landscape and home to a wide variety of wildlife such as: bats, dormice, newts, toads, snakes, skylarks, European turtle doves, lesser spotted woodpeckers and cuckoos, many of which are legally protected species. Clearly the development of this area would destroy the habitat that attracts, and is home to, these birds and animals. Development on this land will fail to meet HDCs Sustainability Appraisal targets.

The proposed development would have a huge detrimental and irreversible effect on the two areas identified as Sites of Nature Conservation Importance. Both of these areas, Rosier Wood and Wilden's Meadow, would be subject to the effects of altered drainage, pollutants and loss of foraging land, vital to the existence of the wildlife inhabiting these areas. HDC rejected an application for building on the south side of Rosier Wood in 2007 due to the proximity of protected woodland and the potential damage. How can this be acceptable now when it wasn't before?

There has been a dramatic increase in anti-social behaviour and crime since the last development on the Western side of Billingshurst. This was highlighted in the 'Civilising Cities' initiative undertaken by the Billingshurst Community Partnership. Furthermore, at the Parish Council meeting on 2nd September 2009 the police proposed applying for a radical Child Curfew Order to control the situation. Additional development, resulting in a further 4,000 residents, will only exacerbate the problem.

All the Billingshurst schools are at capacity and increasingly oversubscribed with no room for expansion. The increase in places needed at The Weald School would result in pupils from outlying areas such as Wisborough Green, Plaistow, Ifold and Loxwood having to face longer bus journeys to other areas such as Guildford and Midhurst, thereby placing increased pressure on a road system that is already stretched. The added costs economically, socially and environmentally would be unacceptable.

The railway at Billingshurst is already at capacity during peak times with minimal parking facilities. This development would result in a huge increase in road traffic through an area that has poor access to the trunk road system. One of the main routes in and out of the area is the A272, and West Sussex County Council has already identified a number of constraints to improving that route.

An increase in 1750 houses in Billingshurst would lead to a further 2050 people looking for work in the area, many of whom will have to travel beyond the area leading to an increase in road traffic and CO2 emissions which is contrary to the Clime Change Agenda.

The majority of the workforce residing in the area work within the service industry, therefore the development of light industrial and manufacturing units would be of little or no benefit for the local residents and as such would actually result in even more traffic in and out of the area.

The government target is an 80% reduction in CO2 emissions by the year 2050. Building on green field sites as proposed not only adds significantly to CO2 generation through energy used by the new housing, but also adds to the problem by removing the CO2 absorbing fields and woodlands. Hence the already challenging target of 80% will become impossible to reach. The latest HDC initiative asks "what will you do?" about climate change.

Horsham District Council already recognises that there are existing problems with surface water flooding. A development within this area will only exacerbate these problems.

This development would override the natural boundaries of the village, completely overwhelm the character of the village and be highly intrusive and detrimental to the character and quality of the current landscape. Furthermore, since the north/south bypass was built trading in the village centre has suffered due to loss of passing trade which can only get worse with the introduction of an east/west bypass.

There is an obligation on Horsham District Council to conserve and enhance local landscape character and for 60% of new dwellings to be on previously developed land, however, this site is totally green field.

A development of 1750 homes and a potential 53% increase in population is a disproportionate rate of growth for a community of this size. Furthermore Billingshurst has recently undergone significant development and has yet to absorb this.

The land considered for development has been enjoyed by local residents, without restriction, for over 60 years and by local schools and community groups such as Brownies, Guides, Cubs and Scouts. The well-trodden public and random footpaths demonstrate very regular use by the public. This area provides a natural (rather than man-made) rural environment for all to enjoy.

The Horsham District Council (HDC) housing proposals are targeting villages like Billingshurst that are on a railway line. This is illogical as only 2-3% of the working population in the Horsham District actually commute to and from work by train.

An almost identical plan for Billingshurst was rejected by Horsham District Council in 2006. This plan was also rejected by independent government inspectors. The same grounds for rejection still exist and no justification has been given as to why other locations cannot be expanded.

Both Daux and Rosier Woods and the fields within the development area are high quality landscape and home to a wide variety of wildlife such as: bats, dormice, newts, toads, snakes, skylarks, European turtle doves, lesser spotted woodpeckers and cuckoos, many of which are legally protected species. Clearly the development of this area would destroy the habitat that attracts, and is home to, these birds and animals. Development on this land will fail to meet HDCs Sustainability Appraisal targets.

The proposed development would have a huge detrimental and irreversible effect on the two areas identified as Sites of Nature Conservation Importance. Both of these areas, Rosier Wood and Wilden's Meadow, would be subject to the effects of altered drainage, pollutants and loss of foraging land, vital to the existence of the wildlife inhabiting these areas. HDC rejected an application for building on the south side of Rosier Wood in 2007 due to the proximity of protected woodland and the potential damage. How can this be acceptable now when it wasn't before?

There has been a dramatic increase in anti-social behaviour and crime since the last development on the Western side of Billingshurst. This was highlighted in the 'Civilising Cities' initiative undertaken by the Billingshurst Community Partnership. Furthermore, at the Parish Council meeting on 2nd September 2009 the police proposed applying for a radical Child Curfew Order to control the situation. Additional development, resulting in a further 4,000 residents, will only exacerbate the problem.

All the Billingshurst schools are at capacity and increasingly oversubscribed with no room for expansion. The increase in places needed at The Weald School would result in pupils from outlying areas such as Wisborough Green, Plaistow, Ifold and Loxwood having to face longer bus journeys to other areas such as Guildford and Midhurst, thereby placing increased pressure on a road system that is already stretched. The added costs economically, socially and environmentally would be unacceptable.

The railway at Billingshurst is already at capacity during peak times with minimal parking facilities. This development would result in a huge increase in road traffic through an area that has poor access to the trunk road system. One of the main routes in and out of the area is the A272, and West Sussex County Council has already identified a number of constraints to improving that route.

An increase in 1750 houses in Billingshurst would lead to a further 2050 people looking for work in the area, many of whom will have to travel beyond the area leading to an increase in road traffic and CO2 emissions which is contrary to the Clime Change Agenda.

The majority of the workforce residing in the area work within the service industry, therefore the development of light industrial and manufacturing units would be of little or no benefit for the local residents and as such would actually result in even more traffic in and out of the area.

The government target is an 80% reduction in CO2 emissions by the year 2050. Building on green field sites as proposed not only adds significantly to CO2 generation through energy used by the new housing, but also adds to the problem by removing the CO2 absorbing fields and woodlands. Hence the already challenging target of 80% will become impossible to reach. The latest HDC initiative asks "what will you do?" about climate change.

Horsham District Council already recognises that there are existing problems with surface water flooding. A development within this area will only exacerbate these problems.

This development would override the natural boundaries of the village, completely overwhelm the character of the village and be highly intrusive and detrimental to the character and quality of the current landscape. Furthermore, since the north/south bypass was built trading in the village centre has suffered due to loss of passing trade which can only get worse with the introduction of an east/west bypass.

There is an obligation on Horsham District Council to conserve and enhance local landscape character and for 60% of new dwellings to be on previously developed land, however, this site is totally green field.

A development of 1750 homes and a potential 53% increase in population is a disproportionate rate of growth for a community of this size. Furthermore Billingshurst has recently undergone significant development and has yet to absorb this.

The land considered for development has been enjoyed by local residents, without restriction, for over 60 years and by local schools and community groups such as Brownies, Guides, Cubs and Scouts. The well-trodden public and random footpaths demonstrate very regular use by the public. This area provides a natural (rather than man-made) rural environment for all to enjoy.

The Horsham District Council (HDC) housing proposals are targeting villages like Billingshurst that are on a railway line. This is illogical as only 2-3% of the working population in the Horsham District actually commute to and from work by train.

An almost identical plan for Billingshurst was rejected by Horsham District Council in 2006. This plan was also rejected by independent government inspectors. The same grounds for rejection still exist and no justification has been given as to why other locations cannot be expanded.

Both Daux and Rosier Woods and the fields within the development area are high quality landscape and home to a wide variety of wildlife such as: bats, dormice, newts, toads, snakes, skylarks, European turtle doves, lesser spotted woodpeckers and cuckoos, many of which are legally protected species. Clearly the development of this area would destroy the habitat that attracts, and is home to, these birds and animals. Development on this land will fail to meet HDCs Sustainability Appraisal targets.

The proposed development would have a huge detrimental and irreversible effect on the two areas identified as Sites of Nature Conservation Importance. Both of these areas, Rosier Wood and Wilden's Meadow, would be subject to the effects of altered drainage, pollutants and loss of foraging land, vital to the existence of the wildlife inhabiting these areas. HDC rejected an application for building on the south side of Rosier Wood in 2007 due to the proximity of protected woodland and the potential damage. How can this be acceptable now when it wasn't before?

There has been a dramatic increase in anti-social behaviour and crime since the last development on the Western side of Billingshurst. This was highlighted in the 'Civilising Cities' initiative undertaken by the Billingshurst Community Partnership. Furthermore, at the Parish Council meeting on 2nd September 2009 the police proposed applying for a radical Child Curfew Order to control the situation. Additional development, resulting in a further 4,000 residents, will only exacerbate the problem.

All the Billingshurst schools are at capacity and increasingly oversubscribed with no room for expansion. The increase in places needed at The Weald School would result in pupils from outlying areas such as Wisborough Green, Plaistow, Ifold and Loxwood having to face longer bus journeys to other areas such as Guildford and Midhurst, thereby placing increased pressure on a road system that is already stretched. The added costs economically, socially and environmentally would be unacceptable.

The railway at Billingshurst is already at capacity during peak times with minimal parking facilities. This development would result in a huge increase in road traffic through an area that has poor access to the trunk road system. One of the main routes in and out of the area is the A272, and West Sussex County Council has already identified a number of constraints to improving that route.

An increase in 1750 houses in Billingshurst would lead to a further 2050 people looking for work in the area, many of whom will have to travel beyond the area leading to an increase in road traffic and CO2 emissions which is contrary to the Clime Change Agenda.

The majority of the workforce residing in the area work within the service industry, therefore the development of light industrial and manufacturing units would be of little or no benefit for the local residents and as such would actually result in even more traffic in and out of the area.

The government target is an 80% reduction in CO2 emissions by the year 2050. Building on green field sites as proposed not only adds significantly to CO2 generation through energy used by the new housing, but also adds to the problem by removing the CO2 absorbing fields and woodlands. Hence the already challenging target of 80% will become impossible to reach. The latest HDC initiative asks "what will you do?" about climate change.

Horsham District Council already recognises that there are existing problems with surface water flooding. A development within this area will only exacerbate these problems.

This development would override the natural boundaries of the village, completely overwhelm the character of the village and be highly intrusive and detrimental to the character and quality of the current landscape. Furthermore, since the north/south bypass was built trading in the village centre has suffered due to loss of passing trade which can only get worse with the introduction of an east/west bypass.

There is an obligation on Horsham District Council to conserve and enhance local landscape character and for 60% of new dwellings to be on previously developed land, however, this site is totally green field.

A development of 1750 homes and a potential 53% increase in population is a disproportionate rate of growth for a community of this size. Furthermore Billingshurst has recently undergone significant development and has yet to absorb this.

The land considered for development has been enjoyed by local residents, without restriction, for over 60 years and by local schools and community groups such as Brownies, Guides, Cubs and Scouts. The well-trodden public and random footpaths demonstrate very regular use by the public. This area provides a natural (rather than man-made) rural environment for all to enjoy.

The Horsham District Council (HDC) housing proposals are targeting villages like Billingshurst that are on a railway line. This is illogical as only 2-3% of the working population in the Horsham District actually commute to and from work by train.

An almost identical plan for Billingshurst was rejected by Horsham District Council in 2006. This plan was also rejected by independent government inspectors. The same grounds for rejection still exist and no justification has been given as to why other locations cannot be expanded.

Both Daux and Rosier Woods and the fields within the development area are high quality landscape and home to a wide variety of wildlife such as: bats, dormice, newts, toads, snakes, skylarks, European turtle doves, lesser spotted woodpeckers and cuckoos, many of which are legally protected species. Clearly the development of this area would destroy the habitat that attracts, and is home to, these birds and animals. Development on this land will fail to meet HDCs Sustainability Appraisal targets.

The proposed development would have a huge detrimental and irreversible effect on the two areas identified as Sites of Nature Conservation Importance. Both of these areas, Rosier Wood and Wilden's Meadow, would be subject to the effects of altered drainage, pollutants and loss of foraging land, vital to the existence of the wildlife inhabiting these areas. HDC rejected an application for building on the south side of Rosier Wood in 2007 due to the proximity of protected woodland and the potential damage. How can this be acceptable now when it wasn't before?

There has been a dramatic increase in anti-social behaviour and crime since the last development on the Western side of Billingshurst. This was highlighted in the 'Civilising Cities' initiative undertaken by the Billingshurst Community Partnership. Furthermore, at the Parish Council meeting on 2nd September 2009 the police proposed applying for a radical Child Curfew Order to control the situation. Additional development, resulting in a further 4,000 residents, will only exacerbate the problem.

All the Billingshurst schools are at capacity and increasingly oversubscribed with no room for expansion. The increase in places needed at The Weald School would result in pupils from outlying areas such as Wisborough Green, Plaistow, Ifold and Loxwood having to face longer bus journeys to other areas such as Guildford and Midhurst, thereby placing increased pressure on a road system that is already stretched. The added costs economically, socially and environmentally would be unacceptable.

The railway at Billingshurst is already at capacity during peak times with minimal parking facilities. This development would result in a huge increase in road traffic through an area that has poor access to the trunk road system. One of the main routes in and out of the area is the A272, and West Sussex County Council has already identified a number of constraints to improving that route.

An increase in 1750 houses in Billingshurst would lead to a further 2050 people looking for work in the area, many of whom will have to travel beyond the area leading to an increase in road traffic and CO2 emissions which is contrary to the Clime Change Agenda.

The majority of the workforce residing in the area work within the service industry, therefore the development of light industrial and manufacturing units would be of little or no benefit for the local residents and as such would actually result in even more traffic in and out of the area.

The government target is an 80% reduction in CO2 emissions by the year 2050. Building on green field sites as proposed not only adds significantly to CO2 generation through energy used by the new housing, but also adds to the problem by removing the CO2 absorbing fields and woodlands. Hence the already challenging target of 80% will become impossible to reach. The latest HDC initiative asks "what will you do?" about climate change.

Horsham District Council already recognises that there are existing problems with surface water flooding. A development within this area will only exacerbate these problems.

This development would override the natural boundaries of the village, completely overwhelm the character of the village and be highly intrusive and detrimental to the character and quality of the current landscape. Furthermore, since the north/south bypass was built trading in the village centre has suffered due to loss of passing trade which can only get worse with the introduction of an east/west bypass.

There is an obligation on Horsham District Council to conserve and enhance local landscape character and for 60% of new dwellings to be on previously developed land, however, this site is totally green field.

A development of 1750 homes and a potential 53% increase in population is a disproportionate rate of growth for a community of this size. Furthermore Billingshurst has recently undergone significant development and has yet to absorb this.

The land considered for development has been enjoyed by local residents, without restriction, for over 60 years and by local schools and community groups such as Brownies, Guides, Cubs and Scouts. The well-trodden public and random footpaths demonstrate very regular use by the public. This area provides a natural (rather than man-made) rural environment for all to enjoy.

The Horsham District Council (HDC) housing proposals are targeting villages like Billingshurst that are on a railway line. This is illogical as only 2-3% of the working population in the Horsham District actually commute to and from work by train.

An almost identical plan for Billingshurst was rejected by Horsham District Council in 2006. This plan was also rejected by independent government inspectors. The same grounds for rejection still exist and no justification has been given as to why other locations cannot be expanded.

Both Daux and Rosier Woods and the fields within the development area are high quality landscape and home to a wide variety of wildlife such as: bats, dormice, newts, toads, snakes, skylarks, European turtle doves, lesser spotted woodpeckers and cuckoos, many of which are legally protected species. Clearly the development of this area would destroy the habitat that attracts, and is home to, these birds and animals. Development on this land will fail to meet HDCs Sustainability Appraisal targets.

The proposed development would have a huge detrimental and irreversible effect on the two areas identified as Sites of Nature Conservation Importance. Both of these areas, Rosier Wood and Wilden's Meadow, would be subject to the effects of altered drainage, pollutants and loss of foraging land, vital to the existence of the wildlife inhabiting these areas. HDC rejected an application for building on the south side of Rosier Wood in 2007 due to the proximity of protected woodland and the potential damage. How can this be acceptable now when it wasn't before?

There has been a dramatic increase in anti-social behaviour and crime since the last development on the Western side of Billingshurst. This was highlighted in the 'Civilising Cities' initiative undertaken by the Billingshurst Community Partnership. Furthermore, at the Parish Council meeting on 2nd September 2009 the police proposed applying for a radical Child Curfew Order to control the situation. Additional development, resulting in a further 4,000 residents, will only exacerbate the problem.

All the Billingshurst schools are at capacity and increasingly oversubscribed with no room for expansion. The increase in places needed at The Weald School would result in pupils from outlying areas such as Wisborough Green, Plaistow, Ifold and Loxwood having to face longer bus journeys to other areas such as Guildford and Midhurst, thereby placing increased pressure on a road system that is already stretched. The added costs economically, socially and environmentally would be unacceptable.

The railway at Billingshurst is already at capacity during peak times with minimal parking facilities. This development would result in a huge increase in road traffic through an area that has poor access to the trunk road system. One of the main routes in and out of the area is the A272, and West Sussex County Council has already identified a number of constraints to improving that route.

An increase in 1750 houses in Billingshurst would lead to a further 2050 people looking for work in the area, many of whom will have to travel beyond the area leading to an increase in road traffic and CO2 emissions which is contrary to the Clime Change Agenda.

The majority of the workforce residing in the area work within the service industry, therefore the development of light industrial and manufacturing units would be of little or no benefit for the local residents and as such would actually result in even more traffic in and out of the area.

The government target is an 80% reduction in CO2 emissions by the year 2050. Building on green field sites as proposed not only adds significantly to CO2 generation through energy used by the new housing, but also adds to the problem by removing the CO2 absorbing fields and woodlands. Hence the already challenging target of 80% will become impossible to reach. The latest HDC initiative asks "what will you do?" about climate change.

Horsham District Council already recognises that there are existing problems with surface water flooding. A development within this area will only exacerbate these problems.

This development would override the natural boundaries of the village, completely overwhelm the character of the village and be highly intrusive and detrimental to the character and quality of the current landscape. Furthermore, since the north/south bypass was built trading in the village centre has suffered due to loss of passing trade which can only get worse with the introduction of an east/west bypass.

There is an obligation on Horsham District Council to conserve and enhance local landscape character and for 60% of new dwellings to be on previously developed land, however, this site is totally green field.

A development of 1750 homes and a potential 53% increase in population is a disproportionate rate of growth for a community of this size. Furthermore Billingshurst has recently undergone significant development and has yet to absorb this.

The land considered for development has been enjoyed by local residents, without restriction, for over 60 years and by local schools and community groups such as Brownies, Guides, Cubs and Scouts. The well-trodden public and random footpaths demonstrate very regular use by the public. This area provides a natural (rather than man-made) rural environment for all to enjoy.

The Horsham District Council (HDC) housing proposals are targeting villages like Billingshurst that are on a railway line. This is illogical as only 2-3% of the working population in the Horsham District actually commute to and from work by train.

An almost identical plan for Billingshurst was rejected by Horsham District Council in 2006. This plan was also rejected by independent government inspectors. The same grounds for rejection still exist and no justification has been given as to why other locations cannot be expanded.

Both Daux and Rosier Woods and the fields within the development area are high quality landscape and home to a wide variety of wildlife such as: bats, dormice, newts, toads, snakes, skylarks, European turtle doves, lesser spotted woodpeckers and cuckoos, many of which are legally protected species. Clearly the development of this area would destroy the habitat that attracts, and is home to, these birds and animals. Development on this land will fail to meet HDCs Sustainability Appraisal targets.

The proposed development would have a huge detrimental and irreversible effect on the two areas identified as Sites of Nature Conservation Importance. Both of these areas, Rosier Wood and Wilden's Meadow, would be subject to the effects of altered drainage, pollutants and loss of foraging land, vital to the existence of the wildlife inhabiting these areas. HDC rejected an application for building on the south side of Rosier Wood in 2007 due to the proximity of protected woodland and the potential damage. How can this be acceptable now when it wasn't before?

There has been a dramatic increase in anti-social behaviour and crime since the last development on the Western side of Billingshurst. This was highlighted in the 'Civilising Cities' initiative undertaken by the Billingshurst Community Partnership. Furthermore, at the Parish Council meeting on 2nd September 2009 the police proposed applying for a radical Child Curfew Order to control the situation. Additional development, resulting in a further 4,000 residents, will only exacerbate the problem.

All the Billingshurst schools are at capacity and increasingly oversubscribed with no room for expansion. The increase in places needed at The Weald School would result in pupils from outlying areas such as Wisborough Green, Plaistow, Ifold and Loxwood having to face longer bus journeys to other areas such as Guildford and Midhurst, thereby placing increased pressure on a road system that is already stretched. The added costs economically, socially and environmentally would be unacceptable.

The railway at Billingshurst is already at capacity during peak times with minimal parking facilities. This development would result in a huge increase in road traffic through an area that has poor access to the trunk road system. One of the main routes in and out of the area is the A272, and West Sussex County Council has already identified a number of constraints to improving that route.

An increase in 1750 houses in Billingshurst would lead to a further 2050 people looking for work in the area, many of whom will have to travel beyond the area leading to an increase in road traffic and CO2 emissions which is contrary to the Clime Change Agenda.

The majority of the workforce residing in the area work within the service industry, therefore the development of light industrial and manufacturing units would be of little or no benefit for the local residents and as such would actually result in even more traffic in and out of the area.

The government target is an 80% reduction in CO2 emissions by the year 2050. Building on green field sites as proposed not only adds significantly to CO2 generation through energy used by the new housing, but also adds to the problem by removing the CO2 absorbing fields and woodlands. Hence the already challenging target of 80% will become impossible to reach. The latest HDC initiative asks "what will you do?" about climate change.

Horsham District Council already recognises that there are existing problems with surface water flooding. A development within this area will only exacerbate these problems.

This development would override the natural boundaries of the village, completely overwhelm the character of the village and be highly intrusive and detrimental to the character and quality of the current landscape. Furthermore, since the north/south bypass was built trading in the village centre has suffered due to loss of passing trade which can only get worse with the introduction of an east/west bypass.

There is an obligation on Horsham District Council to conserve and enhance local landscape character and for 60% of new dwellings to be on previously developed land, however, this site is totally green field.

A development of 1750 homes and a potential 53% increase in population is a disproportionate rate of growth for a community of this size. Furthermore Billingshurst has recently undergone significant development and has yet to absorb this.

The land considered for development has been enjoyed by local residents, without restriction, for over 60 years and by local schools and community groups such as Brownies, Guides, Cubs and Scouts. The well-trodden public and random footpaths demonstrate very regular use by the public. This area provides a natural (rather than man-made) rural environment for all to enjoy.

The Horsham District Council (HDC) housing proposals are targeting villages like Billingshurst that are on a railway line. This is illogical as only 2-3% of the working population in the Horsham District actually commute to and from work by train.

An almost identical plan for Billingshurst was rejected by Horsham District Council in 2006. This plan was also rejected by independent government inspectors. The same grounds for rejection still exist and no justification has been given as to why other locations cannot be expanded.

Both Daux and Rosier Woods and the fields within the development area are high quality landscape and home to a wide variety of wildlife such as: bats, dormice, newts, toads, snakes, skylarks, European turtle doves, lesser spotted woodpeckers and cuckoos, many of which are legally protected species. Clearly the development of this area would destroy the habitat that attracts, and is home to, these birds and animals. Development on this land will fail to meet HDCs Sustainability Appraisal targets.

The proposed development would have a huge detrimental and irreversible effect on the two areas identified as Sites of Nature Conservation Importance. Both of these areas, Rosier Wood and Wilden's Meadow, would be subject to the effects of altered drainage, pollutants and loss of foraging land, vital to the existence of the wildlife inhabiting these areas. HDC rejected an application for building on the south side of Rosier Wood in 2007 due to the proximity of protected woodland and the potential damage. How can this be acceptable now when it wasn't before?

There has been a dramatic increase in anti-social behaviour and crime since the last development on the Western side of Billingshurst. This was highlighted in the 'Civilising Cities' initiative undertaken by the Billingshurst Community Partnership. Furthermore, at the Parish Council meeting on 2nd September 2009 the police proposed applying for a radical Child Curfew Order to control the situation. Additional development, resulting in a further 4,000 residents, will only exacerbate the problem.

All the Billingshurst schools are at capacity and increasingly oversubscribed with no room for expansion. The increase in places needed at The Weald School would result in pupils from outlying areas such as Wisborough Green, Plaistow, Ifold and Loxwood having to face longer bus journeys to other areas such as Guildford and Midhurst, thereby placing increased pressure on a road system that is already stretched. The added costs economically, socially and environmentally would be unacceptable.

The railway at Billingshurst is already at capacity during peak times with minimal parking facilities. This development would result in a huge increase in road traffic through an area that has poor access to the trunk road system. One of the main routes in and out of the area is the A272, and West Sussex County Council has already identified a number of constraints to improving that route.

An increase in 1750 houses in Billingshurst would lead to a further 2050 people looking for work in the area, many of whom will have to travel beyond the area leading to an increase in road traffic and CO2 emissions which is contrary to the Clime Change Agenda.

The majority of the workforce residing in the area work within the service industry, therefore the development of light industrial and manufacturing units would be of little or no benefit for the local residents and as such would actually result in even more traffic in and out of the area.

The government target is an 80% reduction in CO2 emissions by the year 2050. Building on green field sites as proposed not only adds significantly to CO2 generation through energy used by the new housing, but also adds to the problem by removing the CO2 absorbing fields and woodlands. Hence the already challenging target of 80% will become impossible to reach. The latest HDC initiative asks "what will you do?" about climate change.

Horsham District Council already recognises that there are existing problems with surface water flooding. A development within this area will only exacerbate these problems.

This development would override the natural boundaries of the village, completely overwhelm the character of the village and be highly intrusive and detrimental to the character and quality of the current landscape. Furthermore, since the north/south bypass was built trading in the village centre has suffered due to loss of passing trade which can only get worse with the introduction of an east/west bypass.

There is an obligation on Horsham District Council to conserve and enhance local landscape character and for 60% of new dwellings to be on previously developed land, however, this site is totally green field.

A development of 1750 homes and a potential 53% increase in population is a disproportionate rate of growth for a community of this size. Furthermore Billingshurst has recently undergone significant development and has yet to absorb this.

The land considered for development has been enjoyed by local residents, without restriction, for over 60 years and by local schools and community groups such as Brownies, Guides, Cubs and Scouts. The well-trodden public and random footpaths demonstrate very regular use by the public. This area provides a natural (rather than man-made) rural environment for all to enjoy.

The Horsham District Council (HDC) housing proposals are targeting villages like Billingshurst that are on a railway line. This is illogical as only 2-3% of the working population in the Horsham District actually commute to and from work by train.

An almost identical plan for Billingshurst was rejected by Horsham District Council in 2006. This plan was also rejected by independent government inspectors. The same grounds for rejection still exist and no justification has been given as to why other locations cannot be expanded.

Both Daux and Rosier Woods and the fields within the development area are high quality landscape and home to a wide variety of wildlife such as: bats, dormice, newts, toads, snakes, skylarks, European turtle doves, lesser spotted woodpeckers and cuckoos, many of which are legally protected species. Clearly the development of this area would destroy the habitat that attracts, and is home to, these birds and animals. Development on this land will fail to meet HDCs Sustainability Appraisal targets.

The proposed development would have a huge detrimental and irreversible effect on the two areas identified as Sites of Nature Conservation Importance. Both of these areas, Rosier Wood and Wilden's Meadow, would be subject to the effects of altered drainage, pollutants and loss of foraging land, vital to the existence of the wildlife inhabiting these areas. HDC rejected an application for building on the south side of Rosier Wood in 2007 due to the proximity of protected woodland and the potential damage. How can this be acceptable now when it wasn't before?

There has been a dramatic increase in anti-social behaviour and crime since the last development on the Western side of Billingshurst. This was highlighted in the 'Civilising Cities' initiative undertaken by the Billingshurst Community Partnership. Furthermore, at the Parish Council meeting on 2nd September 2009 the police proposed applying for a radical Child Curfew Order to control the situation. Additional development, resulting in a further 4,000 residents, will only exacerbate the problem.

All the Billingshurst schools are at capacity and increasingly oversubscribed with no room for expansion. The increase in places needed at The Weald School would result in pupils from outlying areas such as Wisborough Green, Plaistow, Ifold and Loxwood having to face longer bus journeys to other areas such as Guildford and Midhurst, thereby placing increased pressure on a road system that is already stretched. The added costs economically, socially and environmentally would be unacceptable.

The railway at Billingshurst is already at capacity during peak times with minimal parking facilities. This development would result in a huge increase in road traffic through an area that has poor access to the trunk road system. One of the main routes in and out of the area is the A272, and West Sussex County Council has already identified a number of constraints to improving that route.

An increase in 1750 houses in Billingshurst would lead to a further 2050 people looking for work in the area, many of whom will have to travel beyond the area leading to an increase in road traffic and CO2 emissions which is contrary to the Clime Change Agenda.

The majority of the workforce residing in the area work within the service industry, therefore the development of light industrial and manufacturing units would be of little or no benefit for the local residents and as such would actually result in even more traffic in and out of the area.

The government target is an 80% reduction in CO2 emissions by the year 2050. Building on green field sites as proposed not only adds significantly to CO2 generation through energy used by the new housing, but also adds to the problem by removing the CO2 absorbing fields and woodlands. Hence the already challenging target of 80% will become impossible to reach. The latest HDC initiative asks "what will you do?" about climate change.

Horsham District Council already recognises that there are existing problems with surface water flooding. A development within this area will only exacerbate these problems.

This development would override the natural boundaries of the village, completely overwhelm the character of the village and be highly intrusive and detrimental to the character and quality of the current landscape. Furthermore, since the north/south bypass was built trading in the village centre has suffered due to loss of passing trade which can only get worse with the introduction of an east/west bypass.

There is an obligation on Horsham District Council to conserve and enhance local landscape character and for 60% of new dwellings to be on previously developed land, however, this site is totally green field.

A development of 1750 homes and a potential 53% increase in population is a disproportionate rate of growth for a community of this size. Furthermore Billingshurst has recently undergone significant development and has yet to absorb this.

The land considered for development has been enjoyed by local residents, without restriction, for over 60 years and by local schools and community groups such as Brownies, Guides, Cubs and Scouts. The well-trodden public and random footpaths demonstrate very regular use by the public. This area provides a natural (rather than man-made) rural environment for all to enjoy.

The Horsham District Council (HDC) housing proposals are targeting villages like Billingshurst that are on a railway line. This is illogical as only 2-3% of the working population in the Horsham District actually commute to and from work by train.

An almost identical plan for Billingshurst was rejected by Horsham District Council in 2006. This plan was also rejected by independent government inspectors. The same grounds for rejection still exist and no justification has been given as to why other locations cannot be expanded.

Both Daux and Rosier Woods and the fields within the development area are high quality landscape and home to a wide variety of wildlife such as: bats, dormice, newts, toads, snakes, skylarks, European turtle doves, lesser spotted woodpeckers and cuckoos, many of which are legally protected species. Clearly the development of this area would destroy the habitat that attracts, and is home to, these birds and animals. Development on this land will fail to meet HDCs Sustainability Appraisal targets.

The proposed development would have a huge detrimental and irreversible effect on the two areas identified as Sites of Nature Conservation Importance. Both of these areas, Rosier Wood and Wilden's Meadow, would be subject to the effects of altered drainage, pollutants and loss of foraging land, vital to the existence of the wildlife inhabiting these areas. HDC rejected an application for building on the south side of Rosier Wood in 2007 due to the proximity of protected woodland and the potential damage. How can this be acceptable now when it wasn't before?

There has been a dramatic increase in anti-social behaviour and crime since the last development on the Western side of Billingshurst. This was highlighted in the 'Civilising Cities' initiative undertaken by the Billingshurst Community Partnership. Furthermore, at the Parish Council meeting on 2nd September 2009 the police proposed applying for a radical Child Curfew Order to control the situation. Additional development, resulting in a further 4,000 residents, will only exacerbate the problem.

All the Billingshurst schools are at capacity and increasingly oversubscribed with no room for expansion. The increase in places needed at The Weald School would result in pupils from outlying areas such as Wisborough Green, Plaistow, Ifold and Loxwood having to face longer bus journeys to other areas such as Guildford and Midhurst, thereby placing increased pressure on a road system that is already stretched. The added costs economically, socially and environmentally would be unacceptable.

The railway at Billingshurst is already at capacity during peak times with minimal parking facilities. This development would result in a huge increase in road traffic through an area that has poor access to the trunk road system. One of the main routes in and out of the area is the A272, and West Sussex County Council has already identified a number of constraints to improving that route.

An increase in 1750 houses in Billingshurst would lead to a further 2050 people looking for work in the area, many of whom will have to travel beyond the area leading to an increase in road traffic and CO2 emissions which is contrary to the Clime Change Agenda.

The majority of the workforce residing in the area work within the service industry, therefore the development of light industrial and manufacturing units would be of little or no benefit for the local residents and as such would actually result in even more traffic in and out of the area.

The government target is an 80% reduction in CO2 emissions by the year 2050. Building on green field sites as proposed not only adds significantly to CO2 generation through energy used by the new housing, but also adds to the problem by removing the CO2 absorbing fields and woodlands. Hence the already challenging target of 80% will become impossible to reach. The latest HDC initiative asks "what will you do?" about climate change.

Horsham District Council already recognises that there are existing problems with surface water flooding. A development within this area will only exacerbate these problems.

This development would override the natural boundaries of the village, completely overwhelm the character of the village and be highly intrusive and detrimental to the character and quality of the current landscape. Furthermore, since the north/south bypass was built trading in the village centre has suffered due to loss of passing trade which can only get worse with the introduction of an east/west bypass.

There is an obligation on Horsham District Council to conserve and enhance local landscape character and for 60% of new dwellings to be on previously developed land, however, this site is totally green field.

A development of 1750 homes and a potential 53% increase in population is a disproportionate rate of growth for a community of this size. Furthermore Billingshurst has recently undergone significant development and has yet to absorb this.

The land considered for development has been enjoyed by local residents, without restriction, for over 60 years and by local schools and community groups such as Brownies, Guides, Cubs and Scouts. The well-trodden public and random footpaths demonstrate very regular use by the public. This area provides a natural (rather than man-made) rural environment for all to enjoy.

The Horsham District Council (HDC) housing proposals are targeting villages like Billingshurst that are on a railway line. This is illogical as only 2-3% of the working population in the Horsham District actually commute to and from work by train.

An almost identical plan for Billingshurst was rejected by Horsham District Council in 2006. This plan was also rejected by independent government inspectors. The same grounds for rejection still exist and no justification has been given as to why other locations cannot be expanded.

Both Daux and Rosier Woods and the fields within the development area are high quality landscape and home to a wide variety of wildlife such as: bats, dormice, newts, toads, snakes, skylarks, European turtle doves, lesser spotted woodpeckers and cuckoos, many of which are legally protected species. Clearly the development of this area would destroy the habitat that attracts, and is home to, these birds and animals. Development on this land will fail to meet HDCs Sustainability Appraisal targets.

The proposed development would have a huge detrimental and irreversible effect on the two areas identified as Sites of Nature Conservation Importance. Both of these areas, Rosier Wood and Wilden's Meadow, would be subject to the effects of altered drainage, pollutants and loss of foraging land, vital to the existence of the wildlife inhabiting these areas. HDC rejected an application for building on the south side of Rosier Wood in 2007 due to the proximity of protected woodland and the potential damage. How can this be acceptable now when it wasn't before?

There has been a dramatic increase in anti-social behaviour and crime since the last development on the Western side of Billingshurst. This was highlighted in the 'Civilising Cities' initiative undertaken by the Billingshurst Community Partnership. Furthermore, at the Parish Council meeting on 2nd September 2009 the police proposed applying for a radical Child Curfew Order to control the situation. Additional development, resulting in a further 4,000 residents, will only exacerbate the problem.

All the Billingshurst schools are at capacity and increasingly oversubscribed with no room for expansion. The increase in places needed at The Weald School would result in pupils from outlying areas such as Wisborough Green, Plaistow, Ifold and Loxwood having to face longer bus journeys to other areas such as Guildford and Midhurst, thereby placing increased pressure on a road system that is already stretched. The added costs economically, socially and environmentally would be unacceptable.

The railway at Billingshurst is already at capacity during peak times with minimal parking facilities. This development would result in a huge increase in road traffic through an area that has poor access to the trunk road system. One of the main routes in and out of the area is the A272, and West Sussex County Council has already identified a number of constraints to improving that route.

An increase in 1750 houses in Billingshurst would lead to a further 2050 people looking for work in the area, many of whom will have to travel beyond the area leading to an increase in road traffic and CO2 emissions which is contrary to the Clime Change Agenda.

The majority of the workforce residing in the area work within the service industry, therefore the development of light industrial and manufacturing units would be of little or no benefit for the local residents and as such would actually result in even more traffic in and out of the area.

The government target is an 80% reduction in CO2 emissions by the year 2050. Building on green field sites as proposed not only adds significantly to CO2 generation through energy used by the new housing, but also adds to the problem by removing the CO2 absorbing fields and woodlands. Hence the already challenging target of 80% will become impossible to reach. The latest HDC initiative asks "what will you do?" about climate change.

Horsham District Council already recognises that there are existing problems with surface water flooding. A development within this area will only exacerbate these problems.

This development would override the natural boundaries of the village, completely overwhelm the character of the village and be highly intrusive and detrimental to the character and quality of the current landscape. Furthermore, since the north/south bypass was built trading in the village centre has suffered due to loss of passing trade which can only get worse with the introduction of an east/west bypass.

There is an obligation on Horsham District Council to conserve and enhance local landscape character and for 60% of new dwellings to be on previously developed land, however, this site is totally green field.

A development of 1750 homes and a potential 53% increase in population is a disproportionate rate of growth for a community of this size. Furthermore Billingshurst has recently undergone significant development and has yet to absorb this.

The land considered for development has been enjoyed by local residents, without restriction, for over 60 years and by local schools and community groups such as Brownies, Guides, Cubs and Scouts. The well-trodden public and random footpaths demonstrate very regular use by the public. This area provides a natural (rather than man-made) rural environment for all to enjoy.