Plans for constructing over a hundred homes in Benfield Valley have undergone further revisions and are now set for submission. Last year, a developer put forward two potential schemes to build on the northern half of the valley, north of Sainsbury’s. The initial options included either spreading homes across both the northern and southern parts of the site or a denser development confined to the northern half.
In a new development, two companies have presented their plans to Brighton and Hove City Council, aligning with the second option. The latest proposal entails transforming the southern half of the valley into community parkland.
Responding to feedback from local wildlife groups, the proposed northern housing area will be shifted eastwards, effectively doubling the size of the wildlife corridor. The developer asserts that these changes will balance the preservation of the local environment—with 90% of Benfield Valley remaining undeveloped—while providing much-needed housing to address the housing crisis. Notably, four in ten of the new homes will be designated as affordable.
Benfield Barn is slated to become a community hub, hosting events, wildlife interpretation, exhibitions, educational activities, and a community café. The Brighton and Hove City Plan has earmarked space for approximately 100 homes in Benfield Valley, both south and north of Hangleton Lane.
A representative of the developers commented on the adjustments, stating that community feedback has been crucial in shaping the plans. All homes are now set to be placed on an area to the northern side of Hangleton Lane, utilising private golf course land, including the old car park and some of the Footgolf holes as the main construction area. Footgolf can continue alongside the site.
The representative added that the proposed community parkland to the south of Hangleton Lane, initially allocated for housing, will see investments in landscaping. This includes protecting the BMX track created by local young people and enhancing footpaths, play areas, and signage. There is a commitment to help establish a community Parkland Trust, with funding for its ongoing protection and maintenance.
Environmental concerns have been a significant focus. The proposed northern housing allocation will be moved east to double the size of the wildlife corridor. The scheme has been submitted to the South East Design Review Panel for an independent audit, and their feedback has been incorporated. This includes providing Benfield Barn as a community hub and preserving important views from the barn. Landscape architects have included an orchard and productive garden as part of the proposals, creating an attractive buffer between the Barn and the new homes.
Practical measures have also been taken to ensure minimal disruption to the surrounding area. There will be sufficient car parking spaces around the homes to avoid encroaching on surrounding streets. The central crossing island on Hangleton Lane is set to be relocated to enhance pedestrian safety between the public pathway and park areas. A commissioned traffic assessment indicates that the site will have a minimal local impact.
The developers expressed gratitude towards the community, acknowledging the challenges of bringing forward new developments. The goal remains to create a scheme that benefits the landscape and wildlife while providing a sustainable community for both existing and new residents—living harmoniously with nature.
As the revised plans await approval from Brighton and Hove City Council, the ongoing dialogue between developers, local residents, and wildlife groups highlights the complexities and collaborative efforts required in urban development projects. The proposed balance between new housing and environmental preservation in Benfield Valley could serve as a model for future developments, ensuring that growth and sustainability go hand in hand.
