FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What is being proposed?
The proposal seeks permission for up to 30 new homes, comprising:
- 18 open market homes
- 12 affordable homes
The scheme also includes associated parking, landscaping, public open space, improved footpath links, and sustainable drainage.
Why are new homes needed here?
Lewes District Council identifies a need for high-quality, energy-efficient homes across the district, including affordable housing. This scheme helps meet that need by providing a balanced mix of 2, 3, and 4-bedroom properties suitable for a range of ages, households, and budgets.
How does the design respect the village’s rural character?
The project adopts a landscape-led approach, meaning the layout is shaped around the site’s natural features rather than imposing a standard housing layout. Key elements include:
- Retention of mature trees, hedgerows, and existing landscape characteristics
- Respecting the undulating local topography
- Creating a green corridor and open space at the village edge to soften the transition to the countryside
This ensures the scheme feels connected to Barcombe’s identity rather than detracting from it.
How will the view from Barcombe Village Hall be considered?
Although the view is not protected in planning terms, the design actively responds to it by:
- Creating a public open space directly in front of the hall
- Retaining views through to open countryside
- Ensuring building scale and massing are sensitive and do not dominate the outlook
This also offers the community access to land that is currently private.
What will the homes look like?
The homes will draw upon the Sussex vernacular, using materials such as:
- Local brick
- Traditional weatherboarding
- Sensitive colours and textures
The aim is for the development to feel like a natural extension of the village rather than an isolated estate.
What green spaces are included?
A significant central green space forms the heart of the development, serving as:
- A place for recreation and meeting
- An informal play area
- A landscaped buffer maintaining important visual corridors
- Additional planting and green infrastructure will enhance biodiversity and create attractive spaces for residents and visitors.
Will public access be improved?
Yes. The proposal includes enhanced footpath connections to better integrate the new homes with the surrounding village, improving access to community facilities and encouraging safe, sustainable movement.
What sustainability and drainage measures are planned?
The site will incorporate Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SuDS), including features such as swales or attenuation basins, to ensure responsible water management, reduce flood risk, and support local biodiversity.
How energy-efficient will the new homes be?
The homes will exceed modern building regulations and be built using a fabric-first approach, ensuring:
- High-performance insulation
- Excellent airtightness
- High-quality windows and doors
- Reduced heat loss and improved indoor comfort
All homes will include air source heat pumps.
What are the environmental and financial benefits for residents?
Compared with older properties, the new homes will:
- Use around 55% less energy
- Emit approximately 60% less carbon
- Save occupants over £2,200 per year on energy bills (HBF research)
This all helps deliver long-term affordability as well as sustainability.
How will this development benefit the community?
The scheme will:
- Deliver much needed affordable housing
- Increase support for local services, including the village hall
- Provide accessible public space
- Enhance local footpath connections
- Create a thoughtfully designed, attractive extension to the village
When will a planning application be submitted?
A formal planning application will be submitted to Lewes District Council following engagement with local residents and stakeholders. Details on timing and how to comment will be provided as the project progresses.