Chelwood Pound Lane, Laughton, Lewes, BN8 6BE

Main issues, as the Inspector framed them

• the effects of the proposed development on the character and appearance of the surrounding area including trees
• the effects of the proposed development on the setting of Chelwood a Grade II listed building
• the effects of the proposed development on biodiversity and wildlife habitats
• the effect on the living conditions of future occupiers with specific regard to overshadowing

What decided it

The less than substantial harm to the setting and significance of the Grade II listed building, to which considerable importance and weight was attached, was not outweighed by the modest public benefits of the scheme, providing a clear reason for refusal under the Framework's heritage policies.

The less than substantial harm to the listed building's setting, together with harm to character and appearance, was not outweighed by the modest economic and social benefits and neutral biodiversity gain, tipping the balance against the proposal despite the housing land supply shortfall.