Update on the Planning Appeal: Land at Bird in Eye Farm
We are aware that some residents have noticed the green Planning Application Appeal posters displayed regarding an outline application for up to 190 dwellings on land at Bird in Eye Farm, Framfield. To clarify, this is not a planning application but an appeal against a previously submitted application.
In August 2024, Croudace Homes Ltd submitted an application to Wealden District Council (WDC) planning authority. This followed the earlier application (reference: WD/2021/2198/MAO) for up to 290 dwellings, which was refused and subsequently dismissed at appeal.
The latest application sought permission for up to 190 dwellings, with changes including a smaller Suitable Alternative Natural Greenspace (SANG) and a revised access format. However, WDC indicated their intention to Decline to Determine the application under Section 70C of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990. This section empowers councils to decline applications if an appeal for a similar application has been dismissed within the past two years.
In response, the applicant lodged a non-determination appeal, prompting the Planning Inspectorate (PINS) to hold a public inquiry. The inquiry is scheduled to last for up to eight days.
Since WDC did not validate the application, no public consultation has occurred so far. However, as part of the appeal process, there will now be an opportunity for public consultation.
How to Submit Your Comments
Members of the public are encouraged to submit their representations directly to the Planning Inspectorate (PINS), not to WDC.
Appeal Reference: APP/C1435/W/24/3356658
View the submitted application and appeal case file documents here:
Wealden District Council Planning Portal
Submission Methods:
1. Online: Submit your comments via the Planning Inspectorate’s portal: Planning Appeals Portal Case no is 3356658
2. By Post:
Address your representation to: (include the appeal reference)
Robert Wordsworth, c/o The Inquiries and Major Casework Team, Temple Quay House, 2 The Square, Bristol, BS1 6PN
Deadline: All representations must be submitted by 3 February 2025. Be sure to quote the appeal reference in your submission.
Note: There is no need to send a copy of your comments to Framfield Parish Council, WDC, or to the email address planning.appeals@wealden.gov.uk.
Next Steps
Framfield Parish Council will be making a representation, and providing our comments. We will also continue to monitor developments and provide updates as more information becomes available. We hope this explanation has clarified the situation, and we will keep residents informed of further details in due course.