Wain Homes has unveiled updated plans for a new housing development off Blind Lane in Southwick, inviting public input ahead of submitting a formal planning application. The revisions come after a well-attended consultation session in July at Southwick Community Hub, where local residents shared their views and suggestions.
The development proposes between 90 and 100 homes, with 30 percent designated as affordable housing through a mix of affordable rent and shared ownership options. Designed to integrate seamlessly with the existing village, the layout features tree-lined streets, safe pedestrian and cycling routes, and expansive green spaces complete with seating and enhanced play areas for children.
Committed to environmental stewardship, Wain Homes plans to retain and improve existing hedgerows and mature trees while introducing new planting and ecological measures to achieve at least a 10 percent Biodiversity Net Gain. Natural drainage solutions such as attenuation basins and wetland planting are included to effectively manage flood risks.
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Responding directly to community feedback, the updated scheme expands green spaces, improves the children’s play zone, and adjusts housing density to better align with the surrounding landscape. Higher-density homes are now situated centrally, with lower-density properties along the perimeter to provide a balanced and thoughtful urban design.
The proposal also features a shared surface street design, minimizing hard surfaces and prioritizing pedestrian-friendly areas. Sightlines to notable local landmarks—including Druce’s Farm, the Baptist Church, and St Thomas Church Tower—will be preserved and enhanced, maintaining the village’s character.
John-Rhys Davies, Planning Manager at Wain Homes, stated, “We appreciate the valuable feedback from residents at our July event. Their insights have been crucial in shaping these updated proposals. Our goal is to deliver a sustainable, high-quality neighbourhood that complements Southwick’s character, boosts biodiversity, and meets the housing needs of local people. We welcome further input as we move towards finalising the application.”
The public consultation remains open until Friday, October 17. Residents can review the full proposals and submit feedback online, or contact the project team via email at [email protected] or by phone at 0800 130 3270 during business hours (Monday to Friday, 9:00am to 5:30pm).