Eight homes at Fivensgreen House, North Heath Lane, Horsham

“The Head of Development and Building Control reported that planning permission was sought for the demolition of existing house and outbuildings and the construction of 8no. dwellings and associated garages/driveways and new access points. The site was located within the bulit-up area of Horsham and within the residential neighbourhood of Holbrook. It was situated on North Heath Lane and covered approximately 0.42 hectares.”

“The application was previously granted planning permission subject to appropriate conditions and the completion of a s106 legal agreement at the Planning Committee North meeting on 4 February 2025. Since then, new material planning considerations have arisen as the applicant’s approach to water neutrality has changed and the BNG requirements for this type of application were amended.”

“An updated water condition (no. 4) is therefore recommended which gives the applicant the option of addressing water neutrality through SNWCS or through their own bespoke solution. This condition would ensure the site is water neutral and would enable the Council to conclude the absence of potential adverse effects upon the integrity of the Arun Valley SAC, SPA and Ramsar designations.”

“The proposed development continues to comply with the relevant planning policies, including Policy 3 of the HDPF, and remains acceptable in principle. The updated approach to water neutrality, now aligned with the Sussex North Water Certification Scheme (SNWCS), provides a clear and enforceable pathway to mitigate increased water demand, supported by a revised planning condition.”

“A Biodiversity Metric has been submitted which confirms that 10% net gain cannot be achieved on-site due to the nature and constraints of the site. The applicant had proposed as part of the previously approved scheme to meet the requirement through the purchase of statutory biodiversity credits, which was considered acceptable.”

“Thirty-five letters of representations objecting to the application have been received previously. North Horsham Parish Council objected to the application.”

“That DC/24/1291 be approved in accordance with the Officer recommendation.”