Community can have say on future Littlehampton plans

House building has proved a contentious issue in the town over the last few years, with more than 1,000 homes being proposed for North Littlehampton, plans for an Eco-Town at Ford being dropped in the wake of mass local opposition, and 600 homes on land north of Courtwick Lane being given the go-ahead earlier this year, despite furious protests from residents.

Now residents are being invited to a series of meetings giving them the chance to have their say on where they think homes, businesses and facilities should be built in future.

Nikkie Enticknap, services manager at Littlehampton Town Council, said: “The Localism Bill, which is currently progressing through Parliament, includes a package of policies that will have an impact on our community.

“One of these is the Neighbourhood Plan, which is intended to give communities an opportunity to contribute their views on the nature of development in their local area and take into account local needs.”

She added that while the town council was arranging the meetings, it was not responsible for what went into the plan – that, she said, was down to residents.

“The whole community needs to be involved, including local businesses, schools, leisure and voluntary clubs and groups: everyone,” she said.

As part of the process, residents can also complete a questionnaire, on what they think development priorities in the area should be, at www.littlehampton-tc.gov.uk.

The meeting schedule is: Brookfield ward residents, November 14, 4-7pm, Littlehampton Academy; Wick with Toddington ward residents living south of the A259, November 15, 4-7pm, Wick Hall; Ham ward residents, November 22, 4-7pm, The Wickbourne Centre; River ward residents, November 28, 4-7pm, Arun Yacht Club; Wick with Toddington ward residents living north of the A259, December 1, 4-7pm, Wick Football Club; Beach ward, December 6, 4-7pm, Norfolk Gardens Café; December 10, 10-1pm, for all residents, The Millennium Chamber, Manor House.

Nikkie added: “Drop in for a cup of tea and a chat and there will be discussion groups for you to take part in if you wish.

“Events are arranged for each ward, but if you cannot attend your local event, you are welcome to attend any of the alternative meetings, or to come along to the catch, all meeting on December 10.”