Town redevelopment moves forward

The development includes a new concourse for Haywards Heath station

A controversial £200m plan to redevelop a West Sussex town centre will progress despite protests by residents.

Mid Sussex District Council voted to go ahead with the plans for Haywards Heath, which include a new station concourse and 700 homes.

The council's cabinet discussed a "concept scheme" on Wednesday before a planning application is prepared.

Almost 95% of those who voted in a referendum in June called for a rethink and more public consultation.

If the scheme gets final approval, it is expected that the official planning application will start late next year.

The proposals include redeveloping the conference and entertainment venue Clair Hall and a bridge linking the rail station with Clair Road.

The next stage is to involve local people and stakeholders in the detail Councillor Sue Seward

There is also a 1,000-space car park and more business space.

A major concern was that the town would not be able to cope with extra traffic generated by the scheme.

Deputy council leader Sue Seward said the decision was "only the beginning".

"We knew that difficult decisions and compromise may be needed in order to see the development progress," she said.

"The next stage is to involve local people and stakeholders in the detail, which must take place before any planning application is submitted."

Michael Capocci, chief executive of developers Thornfield, added: "We now have a clear understanding of the council's aspirations and the challenges to overcome in meeting them.

"We will now study them carefully and seek to address them before we move to any planning stage."