Plans for multi-million pound Angmering community hub are dealt another blow

Plans for a multi-million pound community hub in Angmering have suffered another blow.
Watch more of our videos on Shots! 
and live on Freeview channel 276
Visit Shots! now

On May 29, Arun District Council refused planning permission for the redevelopment of the former Chandlers motor dealers site in Water Lane, due to a lack of affordable housing and parking issues.

It was a key objective for Angmering Parish Council to get the project off the ground, which would have included a business centre, toilets, shop, parking and 19 homes.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

But for the council to repay the loan needed for the development, it said it was ‘relying on new houses being occupied and generating additional precept funds, but the houses are yet to be built’.

Then parish council chairman John Oldfield, right, and clerk Rob Martin at the Chandlers site in 2018 when the plans were announced. Photo by Derek Martin PhotographyThen parish council chairman John Oldfield, right, and clerk Rob Martin at the Chandlers site in 2018 when the plans were announced. Photo by Derek Martin Photography
Then parish council chairman John Oldfield, right, and clerk Rob Martin at the Chandlers site in 2018 when the plans were announced. Photo by Derek Martin Photography

The council is pulling out as joint-developer as it could not promise the tax precept would not increase for residents otherwise.

The concept of a business centre was also complicated by the pandemic, as more businesses switched to home working.

Chairman Nikki Hamilton-Street said: “Just over two years ago, Angmering Parish Council recognised that this scheme offered a once-in-a lifetime opportunity to shape how our village centre was developed, while providing much-needed facilities.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“During our consultation with parishioners, we pledged that this project would not increase the annual precept for residents.

“The situation has since changed and as the development is no longer financially viable, we do not believe that it is in the best interests of our residents to continue with it.

“We will work hard to influence any new plans that a developer may bring forward for the site, to have our community needs at the heart of it.

“While we are disappointed that the parish council will no longer be involved as joint developer, we are extremely positive about the future and what additional improvements can be made for the benefit of the village.”