It is acknowledged that, due to certain constraints, development opportunities at Rye are limited. Indeed, the Council now takes the view that it cannot provide the 450 dwellings previously proposed for Rye.

Such a stance is rejected. It is considered that the Council should accept this level of housing provision and make every effort to achieve it. Indeed, the draft National Planning Policy Framework sets out the government's" direction of travel" with regards to plan-making, development and housing provision .In particular, it should identify key development sites which could assist in meeting the town's and the Council's requirements. In this context, it is proposed that land at Winchelsea Road, Rye, be designated in the Core Strategy.

Land on the eastern side of the road, north of its junction with Harbour Road, is substantially under-used. Moreover, it is subject to an employment land protection policy that is considered to be unrealistic and something that stifles much-needed development. In these circumstances, this area should be designated as a Key Development Site, wherein the Council will adopt a flexible approach to the delivery of housing, commercial and employment -generating uses.