The major change in recent months has been the publication by the South Downs National Park Authority (SDNPA) of their draft plan for the whole National Park including Steep. This recommends that the former allotment site on Church Road, now owned by the charity, is included within the settlement boundary and with potential for development.
The trustees welcome the proposal since our preference is to secure a comprehensive plan for this site at the centre of the village; to include some development incorporating lower cost housing and community benefit including open space, extra car parking for the village hall and, possibly, a more prominent and accessible site for the War Memorial; all to be combined with a strong focus on the quality of design and materials.
We have had regard to the Steep Village Plan and also recognise the importance of extensive public
consultation.
The draft plan has now been submitted to Central Government with an examination of the plan expected in summer 2018. Once the plan is approved we can then work up more detailed proposals for the site with input from SDNPA, the Parish Council and the village as a whole.
If anyone would like further information or would like to make their own suggestions please contact me on [email protected] or any of the other trustees listed on the
website.
Geoffrey Dale, Chair of Trustees