Homes England to oversee the delivery of new homes and infrastructure at Hurst Farm

PR2374/PS/MF - 23/07/2021

Homes England will manage the delivery of 375 new homes, burial grounds, allotments, a primary school and a country park at Hurst Farm in Haywards Heath.

The site, which is located to the north-west of Hurstwood Lane, is allocated for housing in the Haywards Heath Neighbourhood Plan.   

Homes England has purchased the land from Mid Sussex District Council and, as the Government’s housing agency, will be able to ensure that vital infrastructure improvements are delivered alongside the new homes.

Following engagement with the public and stakeholders, Homes England will submit a planning application to Mid Sussex District Council for the development of the site.

The new Primary school will relieve pressure on existing schools in the area and a new burial ground will address the pressing need for more plots in the town, both now and in the coming years.

Allotments are currently experiencing a surge in popularity, so land will be set aside to help both new and existing residents grow their own fresh produce.

A variety of open space will be provided throughout the site, including a central village green, ponds and a play area for children. Informal open space with be provided as part of a country park and pedestrians, cyclists and horse riders will be able to travel to all areas of the public open space sustainably via an exclusive, car free, ‘Greenway’ along a section of Hurstwood Lane.

Of the 375 new homes, 30% will be Affordable Housing, which is provided to help local people whose needs are not met by the open market and are currently on the waiting list for a new home.

Councillor Judy Llewellyn-Burke, Deputy Leader of Mid Sussex District Council said:

“New housing is essential if we are to meet the needs of our growing population and provide much needed homes for future generations. However, just as important is new infrastructure to support these homes.

“By using public land as part of this project, we have been able to work with Haywards Heath Town Council to shape the proposals and maximise the amount of infrastructure provided.

“The development delivers significant infrastructure improvements for Haywards Heath, with the new school, allotments, cemetery and country park supporting people from all walks of life.

“Homes England has a proven track record of delivering essential infrastructure improvements alongside new housing and I’m delighted that they will be overseeing this important project in Haywards Heath for the benefit of our residents.”

Kate McBride, Head of Planning and Enabling at Homes England said:

“As well as ensuring much-needed new homes are constructed in communities, we’re passionate about the broader environment. By providing these infrastructure works, local people and wildlife will be able to enjoy a well-planned neighbourhood for years to come.”

ENDS