Paragraph 16.43 states "in the case of Bexhill, consideration will be given to locations in or adjoining Sidley and Little Common district centres ahead of out-of-centre locations. The only significant out of centre shopping are is the Ravenside Retail Park. This attracts trade from across Bexhill and St Leonards, for both convenience and comparison goods. Its established role and potential for linked trip with the Retail Park would place it ahead of other out of centre locations in Bexhill. However, the priority is to focus on town and district centres (both in Bexhill and Hastings), and related edge of centre sites."

Comments:

We agree with the Council's comments that Ravenside has an important role in Bexhill and its position ahead of other out of centre locations in Bexhill. For larger retail proposals, it may not be appropriate to be placed in lower order centres and therefore should be considered carefully.

PPS4's Practice Guidance on Need, Impact and the Sequential Approach sets out guidance in determining the appropriate area of search for an application. Paragraph 6.21 of the Guidance states that 'the scale and form of development likely to be appropriate in each centre should have been considered carefully.'

In particular, Paragraph 6.24 states that 'in determining the appropriate area of search for an application, including whether it is appropriate to consider sites within or on the edge of established centres, it will be relevant to consider the scale and form of development proposed.'

We consider that Bexhill, as the highest order of centre, is suitable for large scale retail development. The function of Sidley and Little Common district centres in Bexhill are local shopping centres servicing local community needs, each comprising up to 60 small to medium retail units. Developments which are likely to serve a wider catchment area would be inappropriate for these two district centres.