Horticulture businesses in Barnham could bypass planning regulations

Arun District Council is considering bringing in measures which would remove the need for developers to make planning applications for specific types of development within defined zones.

Residents have until 5pm this Friday to submit their comments to ADC on plans to introduce the Horticulture Local Development Orders (LDO).

“Horticulture is a key employment sector in the Arun District and is particularly concentrated in a number of localities,” ADC’s consultation document said.

“The Council’s Economic Strategy to 2026 identifies the Horticulture Sector as one of four key sectors which are particularly strong in the local economy with good opportunities for economic development and job creation.

“While the sector has significant potential for growth, it faces issues in relation to economies of scale, the quality of existing infrastructure, and production costs.

“The council is committed to assisting the horticulture sector to respond effectively to these issues through the policies in its development plan and the proposed LDO.”

The slackening of planning regulations would focus on existing horticultural business and allow them to make ‘modest changes’ such upgrading existing polytunnels and glasshouses and small extensions without going through the normal planning process.

By far the biggest of the LDO zones being considered is for land off Lake Lane in Barnham, where a number of nurseries are located.

Other areas being considered are land to the north and south of Pagham Road; land at Woodgate; land off Yapton Road; land off Barnham Lane; land off Eastergate Lane; land at Binstead; land off Sack Lane, Shripney; land at Hangleton; and land at Norton.

View the complete consultation document here

Comments need to be made to ADC by 5pm on Friday, May 13, and can be emailed to [email protected]