Save Sandrock Bends
PAUL MCLAUGHLIN
Gladman Developments Ltd, part of the Barratt Developments PLC Group since 2022, has submitted a planning application to Hastings Borough Council for up to 65 new homes on land next to Sandrock Park and north of St Helen’s Church on The Ridge. The plans also include public open space and vehicle access.
The planning application in an area of woodland has sparked strong opposition from local councillors, residents and environmental campaigners. They argue that the development would harm a cherished wildlife habitat and destroy the last remaining green corridor linking the High Weald to Hastings.
More than 130 public comments have been submitted on the council’s website, with all but one opposing the application. Derek Tomblin, a retired Chartered Civil Engineer who has lived next to the proposed site—known as the Sandrock Bends—for over 37 years, said the area is completely unsuitable for housing development.
Sophie Stuchbury is another who is opposed to the development on the basis that, “The Ridge lacks infrastructure such as accessible GP surgeries, dentist and shops. The bus service is inadequate. The primary schools are limited and already oversubscribed.”
The Save Sandrock Bends campaign group is leading local opposition to the planning application and plans to host a series of public meetings to give residents a platform to voice their concerns. A spokesperson said: “Our experts in ecology, hydrology, and planning firmly believe this site is entirely unsuitable for development. The proposed housing estate poses serious risks—not only to St Helen’s Woods, but to everyone living in Hastings or using The Ridge.”
The group expressed concerns about flood risks and ongoing erosion at the site, emphasising its importance as a critical wildlife habitat and a key corridor into the Sussex Weald. They also warned that the proposed development would lead to traffic issues and fail to meet any social housing obligations.
Phil Scott, the Labour East Sussex County Councillor for Hollington, registered his opposition to the planning development posting on Facebook: “No, No, No Not here! The Wildlife Value, The Fauna, The Amenity Value, The Ridge is already an Overburdened Road having become the new A259. What about improving the infrastructure first?”
The opposition to this housing development, driven by concerns over environmental impact, increased traffic, and the strain on infrastructure is similar to the concerns of many other residents across Hastings. The worry that any new development will threaten green spaces and disrupt wildlife habitats is real.
However, there is a pressing need for new, affordable housing, particularly for young people who are increasingly priced out of the areas where they grew up. Balancing these concerns requires thoughtful planning that protects the environment and community identity while ensuring the next generation has access to safe, affordable homes and the opportunity to stay rooted in their local areas.
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