Estimated reading time: 6 minutes
Key Takeaways
- Homes England’s hybrid application proposes an initial 3,000 homes west of Ifield, with scope for up to 10,000 in later phases.
- A sizeable share of *affordable housing* is promised, aiming to ease regional shortages.
- Infrastructure upgrades—roads, utilities, and public transport—form the backbone of the plan’s sustainability strategy.
- Public consultation is open, giving residents a final chance to shape the proposal.
- Economic benefits include construction jobs and long-term community amenities, yet *concerns over landscape impact* persist.
Table of Contents
Overview of the Planning Application
Homes England has lodged a hybrid planning application with Horsham District Council that could dramatically reshape land west of Ifield. The first phase includes 3,000 homes, while subsequent stages could deliver up to 10,000 properties, creating a new community bridging Horsham and Crawley. Residents can currently review and comment on the submission via the council’s online portal.
“This is one of the most significant development proposals ever seen in the district,” noted a council spokesperson as the application was published.
- Initial phase: 3,000 homes
- Full potential: up to 10,000 houses
- Application type: hybrid (outline & detailed elements)
- Public consultation: open now on council website
Affordable Housing and Allocation
A central promise of the scheme is a “significant proportion of affordable housing”. Allocation strategies aim to reflect local demographics, ensuring young families, key workers, and downsizers have realistic options. Economists predict the influx of new stock will ease price pressure but may also spark debate over infrastructure capacity.
Infrastructure Planning and Sustainability Measures
- New link roads and bus corridors to integrate with Crawley’s network
- Utility upgrades for electricity, water, and broadband
- Commitment to energy-efficient homes, solar arrays, and preserved green corridors
The proposal is marketed as a model of *responsible land use*, echoing Horsham’s climate goals and national planning guidance.
Garden Town Vision and Community Amenities
Drawing on the *garden town* philosophy, master-planners envisage leafy streets, local parks, and walkable neighbourhoods. A new centre would host shops, schools, healthcare and leisure facilities—designed to ensure residents need not travel far for essentials.
Public Consultation and Community Involvement
Feedback can be submitted online or at in-person sessions at Ifield West Centre. Campaign group Save West of Ifield has urged residents to seize what it calls the “last big chance” to influence the scheme.
Strategic Site Selection and Regulation 19
The location—immediately west of Crawley—ticks key boxes for sustainable growth: proximity to jobs, transport links, and capacity for phased expansion. Under Regulation 19, detailed evidence and public consultation are mandatory before inclusion in Horsham’s Local Plan.
Economic and Social Impact
- Thousands of construction jobs over the next decade
- Long-term roles in retail, education, and healthcare
- Boost to local supply chains and small businesses
- Improved community amenities and open spaces
Yet critics warn of potential pressure on GP services and road congestion unless upgrades keep pace with growth.
Next Steps and Decision-Making Process
- Planning officers review technical documents
- Further consultation rounds and possible plan revisions
- Public hearings before Horsham’s planning committee
- Final decision anticipated in late 2024 / early 2025
Conclusion
The west of Ifield proposal represents a bold attempt to balance *urgent housing demand* with environmental stewardship and community wellbeing. Whether the plan becomes a model garden town or a cautionary tale will depend on robust infrastructure, genuine affordability, and sustained community engagement.
FAQs
How can I submit feedback on the proposal?
Visit the Horsham District Council planning portal, search for the west of Ifield application, and follow the on-screen instructions to comment.
What percentage of the new homes will be affordable?
Homes England indicates that at least 35 % of units will meet affordable criteria, though the exact breakdown is subject to negotiation.
Will existing roads cope with extra traffic?
The application includes a new spine road, junction upgrades, and enhanced bus corridors. Highways England will assess capacity before any consent is granted.
When could construction begin?
If approved, groundworks could start in late 2025 following detailed design and discharge of pre-commencement conditions.
Where can I find campaign information from local residents?
Community group Save West of Ifield publishes updates, meeting dates, and advice on how to get involved.