Horsham District Council has formally initiated a judicial review challenge against the Secretary of State’s recent decision to grant outline planning permission for 800 homes at the Horsham Golf and Fitness site, Worthing Road, Horsham.
The Council originally refused the planning application on multiple grounds, including concerns over its unsustainable location and active travel options. Following a detailed legal review, and working in collaboration with Active Travel England, the Council is now contesting the decision on the basis that the government-appointed Planning Inspector made significant legal errors.
Specifically, the challenge asserts that national planning policy, which prioritises development in sustainable locations, was misapplied, and that the Inspector incorrectly deemed the Southwater Neighbourhood Plan, adopted in only 2021, to be out of date.
Horsham District Council Cabinet Member for Planning and Infrastructure Cllr Ruth Fletcher commented:
“We are deeply disappointed by the outcome of this appeal. After careful examination, we believe the Planning Inspector failed to properly interpret and apply national policy, particularly regarding sustainable development.
“This decision undermines the integrity of the Neighbourhood Plan process in determining that the Southwater Neighbourhood Plan, adopted in 2021,is out of date.
“It is vital for public confidence in the planning system that such matters are scrutinised by the Courts. We welcome the support of Active Travel England in pursuing this challenge.”