Wivelsfield Green

ECE Planning

ECE Planning supported Elivia Homes in progressing proposals for 45 new homes on land at South Road, Wivelsfield Green, within Lewes District. The development provides a mix of one, two, three, and four-bedroom properties, including 18 affordable homes (40%), alongside extensive public open space, play facilities, new woodland planting, and biodiversity enhancements.

The landscape-led scheme has been carefully designed to respond to its village setting and the site’s sensitive topography. Residential development is concentrated towards the western portion of the site, with substantial open space retained to the east, reflecting the principles established through the outline planning permission. The proposals also incorporate pedestrian and cycle connections, sustainable drainage features, and a traditional architectural approach informed by the local character of Wivelsfield Green.

ECE Planning played a central role in coordinating the planning process, including pre-application engagement, public consultation, and leading a multidisciplinary consultant team through the preparation of the Reserved Matters application. Following the grant of outline planning permission at appeal in September 2022, our team provided strategic planning advice to ensure the detailed proposals were fully aligned with the approved outline scheme, the Planning Inspector’s decision, and the associated planning conditions.

Working closely with Elivia Homes and the wider project team, ECE Planning coordinated the technical assessments and design development needed to address key considerations, including landscape and visual impact, ecology, highways, drainage, residential amenity, and affordable housing. Particular attention was given to retaining existing trees and hedgerows, delivering new woodland planting, and securing measurable biodiversity improvements, with the submitted proposals demonstrating a 12.89% habitat net gain and a 10.51% hedgerow net gain.

The project demonstrates the importance of proactive planning advice and coordinated project leadership in translating an outline permission secured at appeal into a comprehensive, deliverable Reserved Matters scheme. Through early engagement, public consultation, and close collaboration across the consultant team, ECE Planning helped shape a high-quality residential development that responds to local housing needs while respecting the character and landscape setting of Wivelsfield Green.