The basis for the Local Development Framework is to a large extent currently determined by the development strategy of the Structure Plan.  Although it has finally to complete all its stages and be adopted by the County Council, the Structure Plan is an important material consideration and will be part of the 'development plan' pending a new Regional Spatial Strategy.  The development strategy of the Structure Plan has three elements which are to:

1. regenerate the Coast;
2. support and encourage appropriate economic growth in the rest of West Sussex, particularly in the North East of the County around Crawley/ Gatwick; and
3. meet the local needs of rural communities.

For Horsham District the Structure Plan requires provision to be made for 9,335 dwellings over the period from 2001-2016 (an annual average rate of 620 dwellings) and also for 190,000 square metres of employment floorspace.  The Structure Plan indicates that, in accordance with national planning policy guidance the basis for this provision should be a sequential approach to the identification of land for development; first on 'brownfield' sites within urban areas, second as greenfield urban extensions, and third as greenfield development around transport interchanges in good public transport corridors.  The target in Horsham District is for just over 4,000 dwellings to be provided on previously developed land, equating to 48% of the proposed provision when existing commitments are taken into account.  Of the remaining requirement the Structure Plan indicates that major development should take place at two 'Strategic Locations' within the District; 2,500 homes west of Crawley and 1,000 homes south-west and/or west of Horsham.  Further, more limited development can take place in the small towns and villages in the District, subject to an assessment of the need, suitability, scale and rate of growth appropriate in order to meet the local social and economic needs and support facilities and services.