Latest plans published and Planning Application submitted

Plans showing the design proposals for Hemsleys Meadow and Finches Field are now available to download from the Plans and Documents section of this page. They also form part of the planning application which has been submitted to Mid Sussex District Council – ref DM/24/0114.

The latest plans still reflect the themes that were important to people when the first round of consultation was completed.

The most significant change proposed at Hemsleys Meadow is the new path network and play opportunities. The paths create a surfaced loop around the meadow, with a link through to the community centre and car park on Finches Field.

In a change from the previous plan, the proposal is for most of the play items to be on Hemsleys Meadow. Earth excavated when creating the wetland features create a play mound with different ways to climb up and a slide back down. Consideration has been given to our neighbours when designing this, so it is positioned away from properties and buffered by tree planting. Opportunities for play are scattered around the western half of the meadow so that children and families can be fully immersed in their natural surroundings, with swings, a climbing frame, hammock, balance beams and den building station.

A picnic area with picnic tables makes it easier for families to stay for longer.

New seating installed around the path network offers somewhere for visitors to sit.

On Finches Field, a small, surfaced area with seating, table tennis and hammock offer something for all ages to enjoy close to the community centre.

Tree planting around both fields is an investment for the future, to provide shade for hot days, home for wildlife as well as helping to remove carbon from the atmosphere.

If you would like to see the more detailed information included in the planning application, or comment on the planning application, please do so via the online public register - https://pa.midsussex.gov.uk/online-applications/ and enter reference number DM/24/0114.

If you have a general question about the project this can be submitted either using the Ask a Question option on the Hub or by sending an email to parksopenspaces@midsussex.gov.uk

To understand what happens next, please see the Project Lifecycle on this page. The plans have been checked by a professional Quantity Surveyor who has provided a cost estimate for the works which show the design is currently within budget. But it is important to note that these are estimates and that prices could rise when we get quotes from contractors which could mean changes will need to be made.