Local Planning Applications

7 Oakland Drive, Robertsbridge, East Sussex, TN32 5EX

Works to Trees

Parish council comment: pending

Church Farm House Church Lane, Salehurst, Robertsbridge, East Sussex, TN32 5PJ

Repair of study and drawing room floor joists.

Parish council comment: pending

Phoenix House, 5 Pelham Walk, Robertsbridge, East Sussex, TN32 5BP

Proposed works to the following trees: T1: Willow - pollard to a point below two large limbs. T2: Golden Cupressus - remove tree and replant with evergreen viburnum

Robertsbridge United Reformed Church, High Street, Robertsbridge, TN32 5AQ

Conversion of a Grade ll Listed Chapel to Residential Use

Support approval by RDC

Robertsbridge United Reformed Church, High Street, Robertsbridge, TN32 5AQ

Conversion of a Grade ll Listed Chapel to Residential Use

Support approval by RDC

Honey Plum Farm, Beech House Lane, Salehurst, TN32 5PN

Application to determine if prior approval is required for the erection of an agricultural storage building

Farming Application - For notification only

Robertsbridge Junction Station, Station Road, Robertsbridge, TN32 5DG

Variation of condition 2 imposed on RR/2020/2493/P to amend the dimensions of the engine shed.

Support Approval by RDC
The Parish Council has no objection to the application. 5/1/26

Rother Valley Railway Northbridge Street, Robertsbridge To Junction Road, Bodiam

Variation of conditions 3, 5, 6, 9, 10 & 11 imposed on RR/2021/2598/P to amend the pre-commencement restrictions in relation to level crossing works.

Support Approval by RDC
The Parish Council has no objection to the application itself but it is critical that any works on the Clappers must be undertaken and completed outside of term time to avoid disruption to bus services used by school pupils. 5/1/26

47 Mill Rise, Robertsbridge

Erection of single storey rear extension Retrospective

General Comment
The Parish Council has no objections to the application, however on principle we disapprove of retrospective applications. 1/12/25

Trough Wood, Hurst Green, TN19 7PX

The erection of a workshop and agricultural store with ancillary office space to support land management and research activities across the wider landholding, together with associated works for a temporary period of 10 years.

(This application is on the edge of the Parish, close to the boundary with Hurst Green Parish).

General Comment
The PC has no objection to the application as it stands on the grounds that it appears to be a worthwhile application for the land at the rural boundary of our Parish. Although the application is to construct buildings on open land we can see that the applicant proposes to include new planting which will reduce the visual impact of the buildings. It is very important that RDC satisfy itself that the building itself is constructed to be as sympathetic to the surroundings as possible (Salehurst & Robertsbridge Neighbourhood Development Plan Policy EN3 Countryside Protection and the Parish’s place within the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty 'Development will only be permitted where it conserves or enhances the natural beauty of the Parish and has regard to the High Weald AONB Management Plan.') and that conditions are imposed to ensure it is only used for the purposes described in the application. Any extension to the 10 year duration must be subject to a new planning application. 5/1/26

Corner of Knelle Road, Robertsbridge, TN32 5DZ - Land at

Outline: Erection of two chalet bungalows and garages with new vehicular access (all matters reserved).

General Comment

The Parish Council has no further comment to previous application RR/2021/1328/P. 4/11/25

53 High Street, Robertsbridge (Senlac Vets)

Re-roofing and guttering works to Grade II Listed Building

Support Approval by RDC
The Parish Council has no objections to the application. 1/12/25

Heathfield Gardens, Robertsbridge - Land to the South of

Erection of 42no. residential dwellings together with asssociated acess, parking, landscaping and infrastructure.

Support REFUSAL by RDC
The Parish Council supports development on this allocated site as part of the Neighbourhood Plan. We have no issues with the proposed number and mix of dwellings which include much needed affordable housing in the village. The street scenes provided by the developer appear to be well thought out and we would like to see these reflected in the final construction.

However we do have serious concerns regarding the following:

1.Runoff from the site. Will surface runoff / drainage from the site be improved beyond the SUDS statutory minimum? The Parish Council strongly urges Rother to ensure surface run off is actually reduced rather than simply maintained at current levels. This would reflect the overwhelming scientific evidence that we can expect increased levels of rainfall in future which will only exacerbate the existing shortage of drainage capacity across the village. In the case of this development there are particularly severe problems already with runoff from Heathfield Gardens into Bishops Lane and potentially impacting other properties on Brownes Lane.
2.Sewerage. We have been told by some residents that there have been a number of incidents where the sewerage capacity has been exceeded. It is essential that any works done are in compliance with statutory obligations e.g. SUDS.
3.Access onto George Hill. What steps are proposed to ensure safe access for vehicles onto and off the site? Will speed limits be adjusted for the new entrance to maintain safety. Please note the peak hours for traffic in Robertsbridge particularly on George Hill are at the beginning and end of the school day (peak evening hours are not 5-6pm as the traffic survey suggests).
4.Ecology. Is Rother content with the proposals regarding preservation of fauna and flora (see biodiversity reports and ecology section in planning statement)? We are disappointed that any loss of biodiversity on the site could be offset by creating habitats offsite that are most likely not within the village or within the district. Our tree warden has advised us that more habitats could be built into the scheme on site to reduce the shortfall, especially as there is a good amount of green space included within the site. She has found it difficult to access the planting schedules on the new planning portal which we have also found problematic. As well as mainly native trees we would wish to see a few specimen non-native trees at key areas as features, to reduce the impact of native trees being lost to disease, including some trees with brighter green / yellow leaves against crimson to bring some contrast.

We have also received comments that some of the new properties may overlook and impinge on the privacy of existing dwellings on Heathfield Gardens. It is important that where applicable practical steps are taken to minimise any loss of privacy.

We believe that if the application is approved it would be very useful for the developer to repeat the public engagement of late 2024 to enable some of these issues to be discussed and hopefully resolved. 9/10/25

Salehurst Vicarage, Land at Fair Lane, Robertsbridge TN32 5AS

Original application in 2024 was for Demolition of existing mission hall and vicarage and the erection of 11no. new build dwellings (4no. 2-Bedroom, 4no. 3-Bedroom, 3no. 4-bedroom houses) with the creation of a new vehicle access from Fair Lane and associated parking and landscaping.

Amended plans submitted 9/25 - Comments by 30/9/25. New plans amended to
Demolition of existing mission hall and vicarage and the erection of 10no. new build dwellings (4no. 2-Bedroom and 6no. 3-Bedroom houses) with the creation of a new vehicle access from Fair Lane and associated parking and landscaping. Parish Council granted an extension to submit comments by 7/10/25

Amended plans submitted 11/25 - Comments by 2/12/25. Changes to design of 4 properties facing Fair Lane; Changes to internal layout to 6 properties not facing Fair Lane; Consultation on ecology, drainage and financial viability reports.

Comments pending on amended plans November 2025.

See latest comment October 2025 below.

Comment on original application June 2024:
Support REFUSAL by RDC
Whilst the Parish Council accepts the principle of development on this land, it objects to the scale and specifics of the proposal, reflecting opinion of a sizeable number of local residents who attended our Parish Council Planning Committee meeting and commented on Rother D.C. website. In addition there are inaccuracies in the detail of the application which should be noted. Furthermore the application documents state that the developer has engaged in early ongoing liaison with the Parish Council which is not true.

The Parish Council recognises that the land is a preferred site for residential development within the Salehurst & Robertsbridge Neighbourhood Development Plan (SRNDP) Policy HO2: Site Allocations. However, the SRNDP suggests 6-10 dwellings, with Policy HO4: Housing Mix requiring an element of single level dwellings and where appropriate, sheltered accommodation to meet the needs of the elderly and people with disabilities, to enable them to remain in the community. The Parish Council shares the disappointment of local residents that the Diocese has not made any effort to enable or include such housing, which would be ideal for this site. What we envisaged on the site was a smaller number of smaller properties than what is proposed in this application, perhaps sheltered accommodation for elderly residents.

The location of the site, off one of the oldest and narrowest medieval village lanes, is inappropriate for the number and size of properties proposed in this application. The topography of the site would mean the proposed two-storey dwellings would dominate and impose on the existing properties in Fair Lane, many of which are Grade II Listed, and within the Conservation area. This is contrary to the SRNDP, which seeks to protect our conservation areas. Policy H06: Conservation Areas states: 'development proposals will be required to preserve or enhance the character or appearance of those areas...ensure that the scale and massing of buildings relate sympathetically to the surrounding area'. Policy EN5: Historic environment supports this further, stating that listed buildings and conservation areas will be preserved and enhanced. Policy HO5: Design requires developments to be appropriate to their location; the Parish Council does not believe this proposal is. Without question the nature of the road would be fundamentally changed by this proposed development, with new housing design dominating over historic housing.

Fair Lane already has significant access and parking issues on a daily basis. Any net loss of parking spaces due to increased parking restrictions (at the access) would add to these problems. The size and scale of this development would impact on these existing issues, both during and after construction, and it is possible that construction traffic and the proximity of construction could damage existing dwellings, some of which have no foundations. The Parish Council considers the current proposal to be overdevelopment of a small, constrained site. The size and scale of the proposal is not consistent with the SRNDP, and not consistent with RDC policies on affordable housing, with none included in the proposals.

The Parish Council considers the proposed number of on-site parking spaces to be inadequate and the suggested increased traffic movements to be unrealistic; in addition, no account is taken of likely delivery/service vehicle traffic.

Surface water run-off / drainage from the site, due to the height and topography, currently detrimentally affects houses on the High Street. The Parish Council consider the mitigation / SUDS proposals to be inadequate and suggests they should improve, rather than just seek to equal, the current position.

Inaccuracies have been found in a number of the reports submitted to support the application. Background information refers to the Seven Sisters Pub, not the correct Seven Stars (currently closed). The transport assessment is flawed; the nearest train station is Robertsbridge, not Etchingham as incorrectly stated. And we are served by only one regular public bus service, the 1066; many of the services mentioned are school services, without public access. Residents have questioned the robustness / accuracy of the ecology report as they report sightings of bats and barn owls; this needs to be checked.

Our local tree warden has submitted her comments, which we support; she raises questions on why the developer proposes to remove valuable mature trees (walnut, Indian bean tree and sweet gum). Plan J21 381_Arb_TPP is misleading as it highlights just one red Category U tree marked for removal and yet other trees are shown with a dotted grey line as to be removed, but this information is lost on the plan. Residents believe that construction traffic will result in removal of some trees on Fair Lane. The development is at odds with the 'Green to the Core' focus of Rother's draft local plan.

The Parish Council is very concerned that there is no provision in the current application for access to Wesley Cottage. The current resident has a licence to cross the application site, and notwithstanding any legal or ongoing status of this, it doesn't change the fact that the property would be 'landlocked' by the new proposal, with no adequate access (pedestrian or vehicular) for emergency vehicles such as fire engine or ambulance. The two footpaths leading to the property are extremely narrow, and certainly not suitable for a pushchair, mobility scooter or wheelchair.

To summarise, the Parish Council considers this particular proposal to be over development of a small, constrained site in the historic conservation area. It is supported by a number of reports which are clearly inaccurate. We therefore object to the application. 2/9/24

Comment on amended plans 2/25:
Support REFUSAL by RDC
We note the amended site layout, plans and elevations loaded onto RDC website on 6/2/25. Changes include reducing the number of 4 bed properties by increasing the number of 3 beds, and associated amendments to landscaping and parking spaces. As a preferred site for residential development in Salehurst & Robertsbridge Local Neighbourhood Development Plan the Parish Council accepts the principle of development on this land. However the amended proposal still does not comply with our Neighbourhood Plan, in particular the need to respect the historic nature of the location. Our objections remain as follows:

1.Without doubt the proposal is overdevelopment of a small, constrained site. There are too many dwellings, a maximum of 7 would be acceptable at this location.
2.It clearly does not respect the historic conservation area. This is a very historic lane with listed dwellings leading to Robertsbridge Abbey. New dwellings cannot be permitted to face Fair Lane. The topography of the site means any new properties facing the road would be out of place and dominate the street.
3.There has been no attempt to improve the housing mix to ensure it includes single level and sheltered housing which the community needs.
4.Less than 2 parking spaces per house are included which is clearly not adequate; on road parking on a small site would be inevitable.
5.Access to Wesley Cottage is unclear; there is no explanation of the space beside this property.
6.Has surface runoff / drainage from the site been improved? Rain gardens are included but no explanation.
7.There has been no correction of inaccuracies in a number of reports submitted to support the application.
8.Our local tree warden, Caroline, Knight, has submitted her comments on the amended plans which we support. The plans do not make it clear what new trees are included and whether ponds are proposed to channel water into the rain gardens? Rain gardens on their own will not be effective. 3/3/25

Comment on amended application October 2025:
Support REFUSAL by RDC
Although we accept the principle of development on this allocated site in Salehurst & Robertsbridge Neighbourhood Development Plan we strongly object to the nature of this proposed development. The changes outlined in the amended plans (a reduction from 11 to 10 dwellings, associated changes in layout and increase in parking spaces) still do not address the valid objections of local residents outlined in comments on Rother Planning Portal and at our Parish Planning Committee on 6th October 2025.

The Parish Council believes this is overdevelopment on a very historic lane within the conservation area of Robertsbridge village. Although we note the reduction from 11 to 10 properties and elimination of 4 bed units there has been no attempt to change the layout and overall nature of the development in response to objections made by the Parish Council and residents.

Our objections remain as follows:

1.Without doubt the proposal is overdevelopment of a small constrained site. There are too many dwellings, a maximum of 7 would be acceptable at this location.
2.It clearly does not respect the historic conservation area. This is a very historic lane with listed dwellings leading to Robertsbridge Abbey. New dwellings cannot be permitted to face Fair Lane. The topography of the site means any new properties facing the road would be out of place and dominate the street. In addition residents are very concerned about the potential impact during construction on existing historic housing in Fair Lane which do not have foundations.
3.There has been no attempt to improve the housing mix to ensure it includes single level and sheltered housing which the community needs.
4.Although parking spaces have been increased it is still the case that less than 2 allocated parking spaces per house are included which is clearly not adequate; on road parking on a small site would be inevitable. In addition there will be a loss of existing parking spaces on Fair Lane itself during and after
construction. Residents must be reassured that emergency service access to Fair Lane and Fayre Meadow will be maintained at all times during any construction works.
5.Access to Wesley Cottage remains unclear; there is no explanation of the space beside this property.
6. Will surface runoff / drainage from the site be improved beyond the SUDS statutory minimum? The Parish Council strongly urges Rother to ensure surface run off is actually reduced rather than simply maintained at current levels. This would reflect the overwhelming scientific evidence that we can expect increased levels of rainfall in future which will only exacerbate the existing shortage of drainage capacity across the village.
7.There has been no correction of inaccuracies in a number of reports e.g. location of nearest train station and nature of bus services submitted to support the application.
8.Our local tree warden, Caroline Knight, has advised us that serious issues remain.. For example there are 14 new trees marked on the new plan, but there is no documentation that tells us what species these are. The number of trees to be removed seems to be 10 individuals plus seven groups of trees, plus two dead trees (still important as habitats), so still seems to be far short of equalling what is being lost. The Biodiversity Net Gain figure has not been reached, the report says there will be a loss of 42.73% overall, which is a long way short of the +10% that we believe is required. Plans also show removal of the mature walnut, Indian bean and Liquidambar (sweetgum) which we mentioned in our previous response. We object to losing mature trees for construction / garden space. 6/10/25

High House, (Previously known as Adams Platt), High Street, Robertsbridge TN32 5AQ

Proposed side extension to form porch and internal alterations.

Support Approval by RDC

In the absence of comments from neighbours the Parish Council has no objections to this application. 6/10/25

65 Mill Rise, Robertsbridge

Single storey rear extension

Support Approval by RDC

In the absence of comments from neighbours the Parish Council has no objections to this application. 6/10/25

7 Oakland Drive, Robertsbridge

Extending existing decking to rear of property constructed in 2010 under application RR/2010/1368/P by building up existing blockwork on existing walls and foundations to the level of existing decking, doing away with existing steps and erection of handrail.

Support Approval by RDC

In the absence of comments from neighbours the Parish Council has no objections to this application. 11/9/25

Land Near Bishops Lane, Robertsbridge, TN32 5BX

Development of the site to create 41 new dwellings including 39% affordable housing, with associated landscaping, amenity space, parking and provision of public open space.

Amended Plans July 2025 – in response to ecology reports and comments made by High Weald AONB as consultee. Comments to Rother by 27/8/25

2025 Comment (August)
Support REFUSAL by RDC

The Parish Council (PC) objects to this application for the following reasons:

The Parish Council strongly reiterates its objection to development of this site, further to our comments on 15th July 2022 and 19th March 2024. Our position reflects comments made to the Rother planning portal (as of 19th August 2025) and the views of residents attending the Parish Council Planning meeting on 18th August 2025. All comments remain unanimous in their objection to the application.

Our fundamental objections remain that:

1.The site is outside the village development boundary and was not allocated in the Salehurst & Robertsbridge Neighbourhood Plan(SRNDP). It would be undemocratic to permit development on this site when other sites in the Plan have already gained permission or are in the process of doing so, including Hodson's Mill our largest site which is being developed by Homes England. As a community we spent significant time and money to create a robust neighbourhood plan with sensible development sites. This location is not one of them. Granting permission for this site would completely undermine the purpose of having a neighbourhood plan in the village, and fail to recognise the principles of the Localism Act 2011. The government inspector who approved the plan in 2018 accepted our position that Bishops Lane should not be included in the SRNDP subject to the Mill Site being developed. Homes England have recently confirmed to us that the various studies they have commissioned since purchasing the site indicate that the original site plus the adjoining Open Field site are viable and they expect to proceed at a future date.

2.Bishops Lane is a historic and narrow sunken drovers' lane which cannot cope with current traffic let alone additional traffic. We disagree with the safety audit. It is not safe for development and in an attempt to make it appear safe the application proposes to widen the access to the site with “a generic junction design and new pavement [which] would significantly damage the character of Bishop’s Lane in the AONB" [comment by High Weald AONB Unit consultee}. It would fundamentally alter this historic lane at the heart of Robertsbridge village. It is extremely difficult to envisage how construction traffic will navigate the site when only a limited part of the road is being widened. See below.

3.Ecology reports confirm there are significant numbers of dormice and reptiles on site which are at risk from the development. Amended plans show increased planting is vital to offset the loss of wildlife habitats. A robust management plan in perpetuity would be essential (see below) to ensure biodiversity is maintained. In addition, to preserve wildlife the proposal stops public access to the lower areas of the site, near the Darwell stream which is disappointing given the limited access for the public to any river or stream within Robertsbridge. An opportunity to enhance the lives of local residents, thus making the site more attractive to them, has been denied.

We wish to add the following comments to our previous comments submitted in July 2022 and March 2024:

1.Devine Homes have not provided plans to show how they propose to abandon or divert the public sewer, and whether there will be impact on properties in Willow Bank.

2.It is not clear if the gas pipeline close to the site entrance has been taken into account and whether the proposed electricity sub-station is sited at a safe distance from existing housing.

3. Plans by East Sussex Highways (February 2024) show the road would widen Bishops Lane to 6 metres at the access to the site with a 2 metre pedestrian footpath and an extra interior footpath which emerges onto a dangerous bend in the road, and a new pedestrian crossing on George Hill. Even if the wide bell mouth provided adequate visual splays how will the whole lane cope with the increased traffic? Especially as the lane is narrow, winding and suffers from running surface water and ice from Heathfield Gardens down to Brownes Bridge. There have been a number of accidents over time at Brownes Bridge leading to frequent repairs to the brickwork and this development would only increase the risk. Residents feel that the application should include visual plans of the extent to which the lane will change in character. In addition, the proposed transport plan must be shared with the community.

4.The amended plans do not make any attempts to protect loss of light and privacy to existing properties backing onto Bishops Lane, with the upper storeys of the new properties directly overlooking the existing properties in Bishops Lane.

5.Tree planting will not be possible in the northern corner of the site, due to the Darwell reservoir pipeline crossing the field.

6.More information is needed on how the attenuation pond will function and be maintained in perpetuity (see comments re. management plan above) The pond is likely to be boggy and sometimes contain water which may constitute a risk to children. Planting at the pond could help to offset loss of habitats (see 7 below) as well as improve safety.

7.The net biodiversity audit confirms that measures are needed to protect the ‘significant’ wildlife in turn affecting the layout of the site. This includes planting of hedgerows outside individual properties -how will these be protected over time? Who will regularly mow the paths and prune the hedges? (see comments re. management plan above). Our Tree warden has suggested that rather than securing offsite habitats to offset the loss of 5.4 habitat units (-20.39%) on site it would be better to increase the habitat potential on the site itself, to include more habitats within back gardens or around the attenuation pond. More wildlife in Cornwall will not maintain or improve the quality of life for residents of the village!

8.In terms of housing mix more affordable shared ownership properties would be preferable to affordable rented properties.

9.If RDC is minded to approve this site then it will be imperative that every effort is made to minimise the visual impact of the site as seen from the various viewpoints. 18/8/25

Station Road - Land North of, Robertsbridge

Variation of Condition 2 imposed on RR/2023/27/P for amendments to the housing development, amendments to the doctors surgery and the phasing of the development.

Changes to surgery and housing mix/layout since original application RR/2023/27/P. Comments to RDC by 27/87/25

Support Approval by RDC

The Parish Council has no objections to the application. We fully support this amended application. The developer has confirmed to us that if the step lift at the surgery were to break down there is alternative access to the building for those who require assistance entering the building. 18/8/25

Linden Lea, Brightling Road, Robertsbridge TN32 5DR

Single storey rear and side extensions and proposed rear first floor dormer

Support Approval by RDC

We note the proposed changes go close to the property boundary however, in the absence of any objections from neighbours, we support the application. 18/8/25

Oak Farm Oast, Beech House Lane, Salehurst, TN32 5PN

Proposed extension to existing stable block to provide wet room.

Support Approval by RDC

The Parish Council supports the application to provide a wet room for private use. If Rother is minded to approve the application we trust that permission would be granted on condition that the building would be used exclusively for private use as specified in the application, and not for ancillary overnight / holiday / residential accommodation, or for commercial use. 4/8/25

Wycheways, Bugsell Lane, Robertsbridge

Alterations and extensions to existing dwelling including single storey rear extension, replacement extension to front projection and partial raised eaves extension at first floor. Erection of 4 bay car port/garage.

Support Approval by RDC

In the absence of objections from neighbouring properties the Parish Council supports the application. 29/8/25

Hackwoods Bungalow, Willards Hill, Robertsbridge TN32 5ET

Outline Application for the erection of up to two wheelchair accessible self/custom build dwellings with all matters reserved except for access.

Support REFUSAL by RDC

The Parish Council strongly objects in principle because this application to build two new properties goes against local policy. The proposal is both outside Robertsbridge development boundary (defined in Salehurst & Robertsbridge Neighbourhood Development Plan) and also in the countryside within the protected High Weald Landscape (AONB). Furthermore it is also located on a busy rural winding lane which could make access dangerous. The site has already been rejected by Rother District Council in the Housing and Economic Land Availability Assessment (HELAA). It is not clear from the application if the
two new dwellings would be separate to Hackwoods Bungalow. If the application did proceed we would expect conditions that the new bungalows be ancillary to the main building. On the basis of information provided we do not support the application. 2/6/25

3 Church Terrace, Church Lane, Salehurst

Listed building consent application for RR/2025/707/P

Support Approval by RDC

In the absence of comments from neighbours the Parish Council supports the application. 2/6/25

3 Church Terrace, Church Lane, Salehurst. TN32 5PH

Proposed single storey rear extension to replace modern conservatory, replace plastic dormer window with timber and composite front door with timber, and removal of shed to facilitate conversion of existing outshut to home office and internal alterations.

Support Approval by RDC

In the absence of comments from neighbours the Parish Council supports the application. 2/6/25

George Inn, High Street, Robertsbridge TN32 5AW

Proposed repair of timber porch canopy where possible with replacement if required.

Support Approval by RDC

The Parish Council has no objections to the application provided suitable materials are used for a building located in the conservation area of the village. 2/6/25

Stable Works, Climsetts Farm, The Stage, Salehurst TN32 5SP

[Amended plans to earlier application RR/2025/235/P in 2025]

Widening of class B2 use to allow vehicle repairs and MOT testings (class B2)

Same comments as submitted earlier for RR/2025/235/P. Requested further information on changes.

6 and 7 Darwell Close, Robertsbridge, TN32 5NN

Erection of porch.

Support Approval by RDC

In the absence of comments from neighbours the Parish Council has no objections to this application. 16/5/25

Jolly Cottage, Langham Road, Robertsbridge, TN32 5DT

Installation of an Air Source Heat Pump to the side of the property.

Support Approval by RDC

In the absence of comments from neighbours the Parish Council supports the application. 2/6/25

Parsonage Farm, Church Lane, Salehurst

Change of use of former meat cutting room and cold store to Class E use and associated works.

Support Approval by RDC

The Parish Council has no objections to the application. 2/6/25

Holly Cottage, Poppinghole Lane, Salehurst TN32 5BJ

Erection of new entrance porch, single storey extension on West elevation, two storey extension on North elevation, new pitched roof over existing extension on South elevation with alterations to fenestration, detached garage and driveway.

Support Approval by RDC

In the absence of objections from neighbouring properties the Parish Council supports the application. 29/5/25

Browns Farm Shop, A21,TN32 5JG

Demolition of shop and construction of a mixed use building to contain a commercial unit and residential dwelling. Parking, landscaping, drainage and other associated works. Use of access route to A21.

Support Approval by RDC

The Parish Council has no objections to this application which amends the earlier application RR/2024/603/P. We note that advice has been taken to change the design so that the dwelling is reduced in size and more extensive evidence has now been provided to show that the existing farm shop is unviable. In addition public comments are in support of the application. 29/4/25

6 Langham Road, Robertsbridge

Proposed single-storey side and rear extension, internal and external alterations including demolition of existing extension and garage.

Support Approval by RDC

In the absence of comments from neighbours the Parish Council has no objections to this application. 29/4/25

Stable Works, Climsetts Farm, The Stage, Salehurst

Variation of conditions 1 and 2 imposed on RR/2015/1061/P to widen the B2 use to include all vehicle repairs and MOT testing and to amend the hours of operation.

General Comment

The application includes evidence which suggests all vehicle repairs are already occurring at this site which would make this a retrospective application The Parish Council always objects in principle to retrospective applications. In the application's favour we are not aware of any objections from neighbours which suggests the application merely regularises ongoing activities and the business provides local employment. 31/3/25

1 Glenleigh Walk, Salehurst/ Robertsbridge

Demolition of conservatory and new single storey rear extension. New front door and side lights.

Support Approval by RDC

In the absence of comments from neighbours the Parish Council has no objections to this application. 29/4/25

Bantony, Silverhill, Robertsbridge TN32 5PA

Erection of dwelling

Support REFUSAL by RDC

The Parish Council objects in principle because this application to build a new property goes against local policy. The proposal is both outside Robertsbridge development boundary (defined in Salehurst & Robertsbridge Neighbourhood Development Plan) and also in the countryside within the protected High Weald Landscape (AONB). A full planning application with pre application advice is needed. We would expect any development to fit in with the rest of Bantony Manor, a listed property. If the application did proceed we would expect conditions that it be ancillary to the main building of Bantony Manor and could not be sold separately or rented out. 31/3/25

Anroca, Northbridge Street, Robertsbridge

Proposed off street parking space with private pathway to join existing pathway to Anroca

Support Approval by RDC

In the absence of comments from neighbours the Parish Council has no objections to this application. We would expect the parking area surface to be permeable. 3/3/25

Honey Plum Farm, Land lying to the East of Beech House Lane, Salehurst

Erection of building for processing and storage. (Farming Application)

Support REFUSAL by RDC

The Parish Council is extremely disappointed that this planning application proposes development on this contentious rural site protected by Article 4 Direction within the High Weald Landscape. For over twenty years we have repeatedly expressed our concerns about development on this land.

If Rother is minded to approve this application we ask that measures are put in place to ensure close monitoring of activity on the land for the purpose of ensuring that any buildings constructed for the purpose of engaging in agricultural activity are indeed used for that purpose. If it is found that this is not the case then we would expect enforcement action to be taken. It would be helpful in this context if RDC could inform us what would be considered to constitute agricultural activity. 3/2/25

Wicks Platt, Bishop's Lane, Robertsbridge

Installation of four ground-mounted solar panel arrays (24 panels in total) on 'Cornish rocker' bases.

Support Approval by RDC
The Parish Council has no objections to the application, subject to the proposed hedging being planted and retained for as long as the panels remain. 19/12/24

2 Pipers Cottages, 75 High Street, Robertsbridge

Proposed replacement windows.

Support Approval by RDC
The Parish Council has no objections to the application; we support the use of 'appropriately designed heritage windows'. 19/12/24

Salazac, Langham Road

UPVC orangery with GRP flat roof and lantern to side elevation

Support Approval by RDC
In the absence of comments from neighbours the Parish Council has no objections to this application
8/4/24

36 Mill Rise, Robertsbridge TN32 5EG

Hornbeams - Coppice

Support REFUSAL by RDC
The Parish Council objects to coppicing on the few remaining mature hornbeams on this bank. We are concerned that it could set a precedent for other houses that border the bank which would change the nature and character of the lane and deplete the amenity value that the trees provide. If RDC is minded to approve this application the Parish Council would only support pruning back to 5 feet lower than the more recent cut points by a suitably qualified tree surgeon who will ensure these trees can regrow and the bank of this historic sunken lane is not compromised. 8/4/24

Land near Bishops Lane TN32 5BX (Amended Plans to original application in 2022)

Development of the site to create 41 new dwellings including 39% affordable housing, with associated landscaping, amenity space, parking and provision of public open space.

Support REFUSAL by RDC

The Parish Council strongly objects to this application, reflecting comments made to the Rother planning portal (as published up to 11th March) and the views of residents attending the Parish Council Planning meeting on 4th March 2024. As was the case for the original plans all comments are unanimous in their opposition to the application. We recognise that the developer has taken steps to reflect suggestions made by the Parish Council to make the site more appealing to the local community but, as we have previously made clear, our fundamental objections remain that:

1. This site was not allocated in the Salehurst & Robertsbridge Neighbourhood Plan (SRNDP), reflecting strong resident objections at the time. Residents gave a clear mandate to the plan, voting 760 to 81 in favour of adoption on 31 May 2018. The CPRE (consultee letter 20 July 2022) quoted the SRNDP examiner in their objection to the application: “I consider that the preference for the Mill Site over Bishops Field is a legitimate expression of local views, which is at the heart of neighbourhood planning, I will not be recommending the amendment for the development boundary to include that site”…the CPRE state that ”the conclusion therefore has to be that any granting of permission for Bishops Fields would amount to the traducing of the principles of having a neighbourhood plan in the village, and a failure to recognise the principles of the Localism Act 2011”. The Parish Council endorses these comments by the CPRE.

2.Bishops Lane is a narrow country lane with pinch points and bends typical of those in the High Weald Landscape (AONB) with no pavements and steep verges. Residents are very concerned about any increase in traffic both during the construction phase and in the longer term. To make it safe the vehicular access requires large sections of the historic hedgerow to be removed and the proposed exit of the pedestrian path onto Bishops Lane close to Brownes Bridge is both highly dangerous due to the restricted visibility of eastbound traffic and unlikely to be used by those walking down Bishops Lane from Heathfield Gardens. We would suggest that all those present at a Rother site visit stand at the proposed vehicular and pedestrian exits onto Bishops Lane at peak times when Robertsbridge Community College opens or closes for the day. Traffic surveys are now dated and we do not know if they went ahead when the College was open. Also we are aware that with longstanding highway maintenance issues in Station Road and Brightling Road, high volumes of traffic use Bishops Lane as a cut through. Furthermore, Brownes Bridge is repeatedly damaged by lorries along with lorries repeatedly getting stuck under the railway bridge travelling west. It is difficult to see how large construction vehicles will safely access the site.

3.The development would close the green gap between existing housing, damaging the beauty of the High Weald Landscape. The High Weald AONB Unit have objected (consultee letter 23rd July 2022) on 3 grounds: it will result in loss of a medieval field system; detract from the enjoyment of users and proposed access to the site will require significant disturbance to soils and landform resulting in an alien urban feature in this rural historic routeway”. The Parish Council endorses these comments by the High Weald AONB Unit

4.There would be a risk to wildlife habitats (potentially including endangered species) from both development and subsequent flooding. Any wildlife surveys must be updated to reflect the current position.

5.Residents have queried if the gas pipeline close to the entrance to the site has been taken into account in the plan and whether the proposed electricity sub-station is sited at a safe distance from existing housing.

If Rother were to approve the application we would suggest some minor amendments to the tree planting: T26 (the red oak) should not be trimmed back to the boundary; the old abattoir building should be marked in some way; and it would be good to include some fastigiate trees near the road e.g. use some fastigiate trees near the road for flowers and autumn leaf cover, such as Sorbus Autumn Spire, Amalanchier Obelisk, flowering cherry Prunus Spire or Prunus Sargentii Rancho. The maximum width at maturity is 3 metres. These will have flowers and autumn leaf colour. In addition, one or two double flowered native cherries which do not bear fruit would give some flowers in the main planting. 19/3/24

1 Council Cottages, Hilltop, Brightling Road, Robertsbridge, TN32 5EH

Two storey rear extension, enclosure of front porch, alterations to side door and windows.

Support Approval by RDC
In the absence of comments from neighbours the Parish Council has no objections to this application. 4/3/24

Highgate House, Brightling Road, Robertsbridge, TN32 5EU

T1 - Oak - Remove dead wood. two lower branches reduced by 10-15 metres. Long thin branch over building 2, reduce my 10-15 metres.
T2 - Oak - Remove deadwood. One branch between
T1 & T3 should be reduced by 10 metres.
T3 - Oak -Remove deadwood. Reduce canopy by 5-7 metres.
T4 - Oak - Reduce canopy by 10-15 metres (50%).
T5 - Oak - Reduce by 3-5 metres.
T6 - Oak - Reduce the canopy by 10-12 metres (40%-50%).
T7 - Oak - Remove deadwood. Reduce lower two branches by 3 metres.
T8 - Oak - Remove deadwood. Reduce lower branch by 3 metres.
T9 - Oak -Remove deadwood. Two large branches reduced by 5-10 metres.

Support Approval by RDC
The Parish Council has taken the advice of the local Parish tree wardens and has no objections to this application to reduce the size and remove the deadwood of these oak trees. 4/3/24

Beech House Lane - Land lying to the East of, Salehurst TN32 5PN

Construction of deer fencing and laying of road plannings (topped with topsoil & grass seed) on farm track. (Part retrospective)

Support Refusal by RDC
The Parish Council strongly objects to this application, on the back of ongoing enforcement. This is not appropriate use of this agricultural land protected by Article 4 within the High Weald Landscape. 4/3/24

Russet Farm, Redlands Lane, Salehurst TN3 5NG

Proposed single storey rear extension

Support Approval by RDC
In the absence of comments from neighbours the Parish Council has no objections to this application.
4/3/24

Climpsetts Farm, Stable Works, The Stage, Salehurst TN32 5SP. Also listed application RR/2024/59/L

Repairs to curtilage listed barn

Support Approval by RDC
In the absence of comments from neighbours the Parish Council has no objections to this application, provided the Conservation and Planning Officers are satisfied with the proposals.4/3/24

Bushbarn Cottage Silverhill, Robertsbridge TN32 5PA

Proposed Single storey Lodge as overflow accommodation to replace existing single storey Timber Summerhouse, on very similar footprint.

Support Approval by RDC
The Parish Council has no objections to the application however it would like to see a condition that the lodge building remains ancillary to the main building. 4/3/24

Butts Cottage, Beech House Lane, Salehurst TN32 5PN

Proposed Gardner's outside WC and potting shed

Support Approval by RDC
In the absence of comments from neighbours the Parish Council has no objections to this application. 5/2/24

Bourne Farm, Bourne Lane, Salehurst TN32 5PT

Application for the prior approval of the erection of a steel framed portal building with open sides

Farm Application. Listed for notification.

Quercus Cottage, Poppinghole Lane, Robertsbridge TN32 5BL

Demolition of conservatory and erection of single storey rear extension.

Support Approval by RDC
In the absence of comments from neighbours the Parish Council has no objections to this application. 5/2/24