The new development in Chapel Park Road

Closing date for development consultation looms

Residents are running out of time to object to development plans for various locations within Hastings and St Leonards. Jessica Parker reminds residents of the approaching deadline.

The consultation closing date for the Development Management Plan Revised Proposed Submission Version is Thursday April 22.

Since mid March, the opportunity to comment on building development around the Hastings area has been open for public access. Current locations set for development include; The Alpha Café, located next to St. Leonards station, The Convent and its grounds and Chapel Park Road.But if you’re not ready to say goodbye to historic Victorian architecture and open views across St Leonards, then send your comments in by using the options below:

Online: The easiest way to register your comments, go to this website and follow the links provided to complete consultation.

Paper: Response forms are available from the community centre, Queens Square, Hastings. Or they can be downloaded from the website above.

Please send to:

Hastings Borough Council

Planning Policy

FREEPOST RSCG-BSTS-GBRZ

Aquila House, Hastings, East Sussex, TN34 3UY

Just a small reminder, all comments must be made using official response forms or through an online consultation system. Comments made in any alternate format will not be accepted.

Current houses on Chapel Park Road scheduled for demolition

1-3 Chapel Park Road is already underway with approved demolition of two fine Victorian Villas and their replacement with 27 flats and underground parking. But you can still have a say on its development. Below is a breakdown of other locations due to be developed.

The Alpha Café is set to be replaced by a seven story building with 30+ residential units and commercialised ground floor. Current arguments against the redevelopment include; it will spoil the character and views of Southwater Valley, dominate and distract from the Italianate station (in addition to the new Chapel Park Road site) and will significantly increase the population and traffic in central St Leonards, which is already the most densely populated borough in East Sussex.

The Convent and its grounds as it stands is not protected as private open space, which means it is eligible for aggressive redevelopment. It is therefore important to object to the Policies Map, which can be found at the end of section 1 on the online form. Protection will mean future developments must either be heritage led or in keeping with the surrounding area design.

Also in: Home Ground