Birch Grove

Introduction

20.1 Birch Grove is a small settlement situated within the parish of Horsted Keynes approximately a mile and a half to the north east of the village. Access to Birch Grove is via a narrow, private lane which is bordered by hedgerows and grass verges. The settlement is surrounded by agricultural land and woodland, including extensive fruit orchards and lies within the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

20.2 Due to its small size and lack of community facilities, the Council does not want to encourage any further development in the settlement. Therefore, a built-up area boundary has not been defined for Birch Grove. This means that the Countryside Area of Development Restraint policies will be applied.

Policies and Proposals

Conservation Area

20.3 Birch Grove was designated a Conservation Area in 1990, the boundary of which is defined on the Proposals Map. The focal point of Birch Grove is a small triangular green, around which the majority of the buildings are clustered, away from the highway; the absence of through traffic results in a peaceful and attractive environment.