Rother Local Plan 2025-2042 – Development Strategy and Site Allocations

Cooper Estates Strategic Land Limited submits this representation on behalf of landowners within the eastern part of the draft allocation at Battle, (Policy Reference: BT1), as identified within the Rother Local Plan 2025–2042 Development Strategy and Site Allocations Regulation 18 Draft, published for public consultation.

The allocation is fully supported. The site represents a logical and sustainable extension to Battle and has clear potential to deliver approximately 220 dwellings alongside open space and community uses, as set out in the draft allocation. The broad approach to development, including suburban character and landscape-led design, is also strongly supported.

In supporting the allocation, it is suggested that a greater degree of flexibility within the policy wording would assist in ensuring effective and timely delivery. The site comprises a number of distinct parcels with varying characteristics and constraints, and it is therefore preferable that the policy framework allows for a responsive and adaptable approach to delivery.

The eastern parcel, in particular, represents a suitable and available opportunity to come forward as an early phase of development. It has the ability to achieve a clear and deliverable point of access from Hastings Road, in accordance with the allocation requirements. This provides a strong basis for early delivery, without reliance on infrastructure across the wider site.

In this context, it is suggested that the requirement for vehicular access from both Hastings Road and Glengorse is applied flexibly, recognising that an initial phase of development could be appropriately served from Hastings Road. This would reflect the site’s characteristics and support a deliverable early phase, with the potential for additional connections to be delivered as the wider allocation comes forward.

Similarly, it is preferred that the requirement for a single comprehensive masterplan is framed in a way that supports a coordinated approach to phased or parcel-based delivery. This would allow development to come forward in a timely manner, while still ensuring that proposals demonstrate integration with, and do not prejudice, the wider allocation.

It is also suggested that the access strategy allows for proportionate and deliverable solutions on a phased basis, recognising the role of Hastings Road as a primary and effective access point capable of facilitating early delivery from the eastern parcel.

Finally, it is considered that the stated capacity of approximately 220 dwellings, or up to 250 dwellings as referred to in the supporting text, should be treated as indicative, allowing for appropriate optimisation through detailed design and layout.

With these refinements, the allocation would be better positioned to achieve its full potential, ensuring flexibility, deliverability, and the ability to contribute to housing supply at an early stage in the plan period.