Two directional signs at Christs Hospital Sports Centre Christs Hospital, Horsham

What was proposed

Retrospective consent was sought for two non-illuminated freestanding signs directing visitors to the sports centre and main school.

“The application is for retrospective advertisement consent for the installation of 2 x non- illuminated freestanding signs at the entrance of the site of Christ’s Hospital Road, on the right-hand side. The signs are for the Bluecoats Sports Centre and for the main School. There is one larger sign, and another on the back showing directions to the sports centre.”

“The applicant has submitted a Transport Assessment (RSTN_SGR_TMA_080925_V2 by Reeves Transport Planning) that explains the signage has been installed to clearly indicate the location of the sports centre and the main school; delivery large vehicles/general traffic/visitors to both the school and sports centre frequently go to the incorrect destination, with larger vehicles either turning sporadically along the school’s drive or then finding it difficult to manoeuvre.”

Officer report

The site

The signs stand beside Christ’s Hospital Road, near Infirmary Drive and within the setting of Grade II* listed school buildings.

“The application site is positioned on north roadside of Christs Hospital Road, before the junction leading to Infirmary Drive. It is northeast of the Grade II* Listed Buildings comprising Christ’s Hospital School, within their setting.”

Officer report

Earlier site history

An outdoor gym at the sports hall was permitted in 2019, and the application followed a planning compliance investigation in August 2025.

“DC/19/0706 Formation of outdoor gym area located at the rear of the Sports Hall including new enclosure fencing with gates, downlighting and a canopy Permitted 24.05.2019”

“This advertisement consent application is a result of a Horsham District Council planning compliance investigation in August 2025 (Ref EN/25/0286).”

Officer report

What officers advised

Officers recommended approval because the signs were suitably designed, caused no unacceptable visual or heritage harm, and improved traffic direction and safety.

“The size and appearance of the signs is considered befitting of their intended function. The design of the signs is comparable to standard rectangular directional traffic signs on the public highway, with a white background with clear black coloured text. Although the district Conservation Officer notes their utilitarian nature, no heritage implications are raised and no harm identified to the setting significance of the Listed Buildings.”

“Moreover, the signs are not considered excessive to their rural location; they are not disproportionate in size to their function as directional road signs, with their prominent roadside position being reflective of that purpose. Their presence has not resulted in excessive visual clutter in the locality cumulatively.”

Officer report

Who spoke

One member of the public spoke against the application, one spoke in support, and the parish council spoke against it.

Members’ discussion

Members considered the signs out of character because of their size, while recognising their benefits for safety and navigation.

“Members raised concerns about the size of the signs which were out of character in a country setting. It was acknowledged that the signs were beneficial for safety and navigation matters.”

Minutes

The vote and decision

The committee approved the application in accordance with the officer recommendation; the ward member did not vote.

“[As Ward Member for Southwater North Councillor Claire Vickers did not vote on this application]”

“One member of the public spoke in objection to the application and one member spoke in support. Southwater Parish Council spoke in objection to the application.”

Minutes