Action Plan - Housing

Timothy Tortoise

Housing Development

Action Point 4.1 HOUSING - TYPE AND LOCATION

1. The Issue or Problem
Ringmer has seen substantial residential development over the past few decades, but the area planned for development in the 1960s has now been filled. The recently approved Lewes District Local plan has approved development by 2006 of one central sports field (Caburn Field, 40 houses) and one greenfield site (Forges, 75houses). A further large greenfield site (Bishops Lane, about 200 houses) is in the frame for development in 2006-2011.
Changes in affordability of housing has affected Ringmer's population balance with young people now finding it difficult to afford homes in the village. Lack of affordable housing is also a factor hindering recruitment of teachers, nurses, police and other public service workers.
Fifteen years ago in the Village Appraisal residents supported building of affordable homes and sheltered housing but were strongly opposed to more executive homes. Nevertheless, subsequent development has included a high proportion of executive homes.

2. Specific evidence of the importance of the issue to Ringmer People
The proposals for further greenfield development have been very contentious in Ringmer, because the proposals run contrary to PPG3. They have been strongly opposed by Ringmer Parish Council and local action groups. Only 8% of respondents to the Village Survey agreed with housing development on greenfield sites, with 92% wanting all further development to be within the existing village boundary. When asked what type of housing they would like to see built, 52% wanted a mixture of types, 42% an emphasis on affordable housing, specifically including Housing Association homes, 26% more sheltered housing and 5% more executive homes.
These questions elicited a zero 'don't know' response.

3. The Action
(a) Ensure that development plans for those areas approved for new housing in the Local Plan includes a mixture of housing types, especially affordable housing that will remain affordable, and with a minimum of new executive homes.
(b) The affordable housing should be predominantly 2 and 3 bedroomed family houses and accommodation dedicated to people working locally in essential public services.
(c) No further development should take place on Ringmer greenfield sites.

4. How it will be tackled
By ensuring that Lewes District Council Planning Committee are made aware of Ringmer's strongly expressed opinions and are informed of the relevant Action Points in the Ringmer Action Plan.

5. Who will do it
Ringmer Parish Council, Ringmer's Lewes District councillors, & Lewes District Council

6. When should it be done by
(a) and (b) as soon as the Action Plan is approved.
(b) When consideration is given to the future allocation of new housing in the Lewes District Local Plan.

7. Resource implications
Minimal.

click here for Action Plan Index

click here for Parish Council page